FAQ
FAQ HELP CENTER
Have questions about therapy or Deborah? Feel free to browse my FAQ
or send an email with any questions or concerns!
Popular Questions
Find answers to common questions and get the information you need to make the most out of my sessions!
General:
In the first session we will take time to get to know each other and complete an intake assessment. An intake assessment is the initial evaluation in a clinical therapy session that helps me gather essential information about you to ensure I can best serve you. It typically includes questions about your personal history, presenting issues, mental health history, and current life circumstances. This assessment covers topics like family background, education, employment, medical history, and any previous therapy experiences. It also explores your goals for therapy, identifying specific areas of concern, such as mood, anxiety, relationships, or life transitions. The intake assessment helps me understand your needs and determine a tailored treatment plan.
A typical session is 53-60 minutes.
At this time I am offering virtual therapy sessions exclusively.
I am in network with many major insurance companies, click the “Book a Session” button to find out if I am in network with your insurance. I also accept private pay.
Client Concerns:
Therapy can be beneficial if you’re feeling overwhelmed, struggling to manage stress, experiencing anxiety or depression, or facing challenging life transitions. It’s also helpful if you’re seeking personal growth, trying to improve relationships, or wanting support in building self-esteem and coping skills. If you find that you’re having difficulty achieving your goals on your own, therapy can provide a safe, non-judgmental space to explore your thoughts and feelings with a trained professional. Ultimately, therapy is a personal choice, and a consultation with a therapist can help you determine if it’s the right fit for you.
What should I do if I feel anxious starting therapy? Feeling anxious about starting therapy is completely normal. Many people feel uncertain or nervous before beginning, especially if it’s their first experience with therapy. Remember, my role is to create a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental environment where you can be yourself. You don’t have to have everything figured out before your first session, and it’s okay to start slowly and share only what feels comfortable. You’re in control of the pace and content of your sessions. If you’re feeling nervous, it might help to write down your concerns and bring them to your first session—I’m here to help ease you into the process at your own comfort level.
Ethical and legal concerns
Yes, therapy sessions are completely confidential. I take your privacy very seriously, and what you share with me stays between us, with a few exceptions. Legally, I’m required to report if you disclose any immediate risk of harm to yourself or others or if there’s a concern about abuse or neglect involving a vulnerable person, such as a child or elder. These exceptions are in place to ensure safety for everyone.
If at any point you feel uncomfortable or feel that another therapist might be a better fit for you, you have every right to switch. Your comfort and sense of trust are essential for effective therapy, so I fully support you in making a choice that feels best for you.