Frequently Asked Questions

What is your approach?

I work with you to help you quickly identify and prioritize the problem stories in your life. We then work together on steps to meet your goals. I am direct and open with you so that you can quickly learn how to be direct and open in your relationships between sessions.

I use Cognitive-Behavioral techniques and my work is greatly influenced by Object Relations theory, but my overall therapeutic structure comes from Narrative therapy. The stories we have of ourselves shape our identity in ways that we can easily take for granted as “fact”. Through Narrative therapy, you can re-author your story in ways that are more in line with your values and beliefs. Through this process, I often see my clients find energy and hope for change that they didn’t know they had! You can read more about Narrative Therapy on my resources page.

Theory is great, but what do you actually do in a session?

I ask a LOT of questions, questions designed to:

• help you tell your story
• help you think about your problems in new ways
• help you see your strengths and abilities apart from the problems
• help you understand the factors that keep the problem cycle going
• help you change the cycle to one that allows your values and beliefs to be honored

In addition to all my questions, I will help you learn about anxiety and depression management, how humans in relationship work, how boundaries work, how to communicate assertively, and how to embrace anger and your deeper emotions as the gift that it is.

How long is a session? How often do you meet?

A session lasts 50 to 60 minutes, and it is typical to meet once a week at first, and to taper off to every other week or once a month near the end of therapy.

How long does therapy take?

The typical length of time in therapy for my clients is 8 to 10 weeks for anxiety, depression and most adult relational issues. However, some issues such as eating disorders, dual diagnosis, childhood abuse and trauma usually require longer treatment times. In any case, continuing in therapy is always your choice. I find that people who are finally getting the help they need are eager to continue as long as necessary.

What is a dual diagnosis?

Good question! It just means having more than one diagnosable issue, with one issue usually being substance-abuse or other addictive behavior. To read more: http://draonline.org/dual_diagnosis.html

How will I know when I’m done? How do you determine the end of therapy?

You will know! Life will always have its ups and downs, but there will come a time in therapy when you don’t feel the session is urgent, when you already know what you need to do in situations, when you have all the skills and support in place to get through life feeling whole, empowered, and intact! When sessions become a place to celebrate all your successes, it is time for me to re-evaluate with you and plan for the end of therapy. Usually clients want to leave the door open to come in for a “check-up” as needed. It is a good resource to have a therapist you know you work well with should something come up in the future.

Why don't you have testimonials on your website?

Although several of my clients have offered to have their testimonial on my website, my policy is to follow the code of ethics of my profession which states "Marriage and family therapists do not use their professional relationships with clients to further their own interests".

What is your fee? Do you take insurance?

My fee ranges from $110 to $55 per 50-minute session. I use a sliding scale based on income. I am currently a preferred provider for Premera Blue Cross, and am in the process of getting contracted with Aetna and First Choice.

Many insurance companies will cover a portion of my services as an "out-of-network" provider. You can call the Meier Clinic intake office at 425-487-1005 to get an estimate of what your cost will be.