Frequently Asked Questions
FAQ
What can I expect in therapy?
Therapy or counseling is a process of exploring what is upsetting or difficult in your life, and discovering ways to make it better. Often we are unaware of what is really behind what we are feeling. Counseling may also be more about learning new skills or resources. In any case, this is your time, which means that you set the agenda and pace. I believe the counselor’s job is to pay attention, ask good questions, and provide insights where it might be helpful. To provide a safe place to grow and try out new ways of being.
Because therapy is often diving into areas that may be painful or bring up shame, uncertainty, or embarrassment, the need for total confidentiality and nonjudgmental positive regard is of paramount importance. I believe that patience and kindness go hand in hand with healing. None of us like discovering our human “Gifts of Imperfection” (Brene Brown’s book) yet, often this is the only way to feel good within the body/mind that we were created with. I welcome questions and hope you will tell me if you are offended or hurt by something I say or do. This will give us a chance to practice repairing a relationship in a healthy way, without needing to give up your rights.
When can therapy be scheduled?
My work schedule is on Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays. I have morning, afternoon, and evening appointment slots depending on current availability. I work both in person, via a secure video platform, or by phone. The first appointment is often longer, about 90 minutes to allow for exploring, and goal setting. Weekly 55 minutest sessions are ideal.
Who is a good fit for therapy here?
Those people who are actively searching for answers, or support to survive and thrive to manage the feelings that life’s journey brings. My background as a super busy mom, business owner, and a person with numerous disabilities lends me to helping people to find ways to find comfort & ease their burdens.
How will I know if it is working?
Often the imagery of a river is used to explain how the process of therapy goes. It may take a while or be a quick plunge into the river, depending on your nature and needs. Then the river comes in different sizes, with times of stronger currents or quiet pools, and it can be hard to know that you are still making progress. Though at times, brief solution therapy will solve a specific issue in a fairly quick manner. While it may seem somehow backward, the more tangents that come up, the more healing can occur. Once again, as my client, you decide what we work on, and for how long. Please note that confronting difficult issues may feel worse before feeling better. Part of the work is learning to be self-aware, and learn how to give yourself what you need to feel better and to make the changes you determine are needed.
We will check in frequently, to make sure you are getting what you need. At times, I may suggest, that we focus on a particular topic, and will explain why, yet you are encouraged to redirect or say no if that is your preference. If you have concerns please be brave and tell me. Especially if I have inadvertently offended you or you feel unheard. Part of the therapy process is learning to repair relationships, and honoring your boundaries. If you are not comfortable addressing your concerns with me, you are encouraged to contact my supervisor, George Olson, MA, NCC, LPC in Salem, OR.
Fees:
I expect payment at the end of each session. A client may use a credit card, including an HSA or health savings account card as therapy is a medical expense. My standard fee is $150 per 75 minutes I am currently not in network with any insurance plan providers.
I do have a limited number of Open Path Collective slots that are $60 for individuals or $80 for couples for a 60-minute session. To use this option, you will need to check their requirements here for low-income eligibility. If your situation changes, let me know so we can check that you still qualify.
Hope Connections Counseling has counselors that can work with you at a lower fee if needed.
Intake Paperwork and Policies:
I use Simple Practice, a secure electronic health record platform. You will be emailed or texted (your choice) a link to this portal prior to your first visit. You will need to fill out the forms, and electronically sign multiple documents including the Informed Consent. Please set up your credit card payment at this time also. This will allow us to spend our time together on your issues, not paperwork. If you have any questions, at any point, please let me know.
If you have any questions or struggles with the platform, you may email me at my business email. Please remember that email has several vulnerabilities on both ends via servers, and misdirected addresses, so keep this communication brief, and nonpersonal. Within Simple Practice, there is a secure email platform you can use to journal or send feedback privately.
Client Bill of Rights
As a client of an Oregon Licensed Professional Counselor #C6459 you have the following rights:
· To expect that a licensee has met the qualifications of training and experience required by state law;
· To examine public records maintained by the Board and to have the Board confirm the credentials of a licensee;
· To obtain a copy of the Code of Ethics (Oregon Administrative Rules 833-100);
· To report complaints to the Board;
· To be informed of the cost of professional services before receiving the services;
· To be assured of privacy and confidentiality while receiving services as defined by rule or law, with the following exceptions: 1) Reporting suspected child abuse; 2) Reporting imminent danger to you or others; 3) Reporting information required in court proceedings or by your insurance company, or other relevant agencies; 4) Providing information concerning licensee case consultation or supervision, and 5) Defending claims brought by you against me;
· To be free from discrimination because of age, color culture, disability, ethnicity, national origin, gender, race, religion, sexual orientation, marital status, or socioeconomic status.
As an LPC, I am required to take continuing education, to keep my skills based on the latest scientific research and methods to provide you with the best options for healing.