I’ve never talked to anyone. I’m used to handling things on my own. Aren’t people who go to therapy weak?

Not at all. Seeking therapy is a sign of courage, self-awareness, and willingness to grow, not weakness. Everyone needs support at different points in life. You already have strengths you’ve relied on in the past; right now, this problem may feel big enough that those strengths are harder to access. In therapy, we work together to identify those strengths, build new ones, and help you use them more effectively with what you’re facing now. 

What’s the difference between talking to you or my best friend or family?

Friends and family can be caring and supportive, but a therapist is trained to help you in a focused, professional way. In therapy, you get evidence-based strategies, new perspectives, and a space where you’re truly heard without judgment, advice-giving, or expectations. Sessions are also confidential, so you don’t have to worry about “everyone knowing your business.” When you rely only on loved ones, there’s also a risk that you may later feel uncomfortable around them because they’re tied to a painful season in your life; therapy helps protect those relationships. 

How does it work? What do I have to do in sessions?

Therapy is tailored to you. We’ll talk about what brings you in, what you’d like to be different, and what has or hasn’t helped before. From there, I’ll use approaches that fit your needs and goals. Your role is to show up as honestly as you can, be open to reflection and feedback, and practice new skills between sessions. 

How long will it take?

There isn’t a one-size-fits-all timeline. The length of therapy depends on your goals, the complexity and history of what you’re working through, and your level of engagement inside and outside of sessions. Some people feel relief in a few sessions; others benefit from longer-term work to create deeper, lasting change. 

I want to get the most out of therapy. What can I do to help?

Your commitment makes a big difference. Coming prepared to sessions, being honest about what’s working and what isn’t, and practicing strategies between appointments all help you progress more quickly. Since we only meet for a short time every few weeks, the changes you make in daily life are where most of the growth happens. 

My partner and I are having problems. Should we be in individual counseling or come together?

If your primary concern is the relationship and both of you are willing, starting with couples therapy together is usually best. We’ll focus on the patterns between you and how each of you can help improve the relationship. After that, if one of you wants additional individual work, we can decide what makes the most sense. It’s generally not recommended to move from individual therapy into couples therapy with the same therapist, because it can create trust and neutrality concerns within the relationship. 

What do I need to know If I use my insurance to pay for sessions?

Insurance reimbursement for mental health therapy requires that services must meet the standard of “medical necessity.” This means a mental health diagnosis must be assigned to you based on your current symptoms and clinical assessment. This diagnosis will become part of your medical record if you use insurance benefits. 

Do you offer online therapy in the Quad Cities?

Yes. I offer both in-person and virtual sessions for clients in the Iowa–Illinois Quad Cities region. Online therapy can be a good option if you need more flexibility with your schedule, have transportation or health concerns, or simply prefer meeting from the comfort of your home. 

How do I get started?  

You can get started by reaching out through my contact form, email, or phone. We’ll schedule a brief consultation to talk about what you’re looking for and I will answer any questions you have. If it feels right to move forward, we’ll schedule your first session and I’ll send you an invitation to my Client Portal where you will provide your information and and complete required forms prior to your first session.

What will the first session be like?

In our first session, we’ll talk about what brings you to therapy, what you’d like to be different, and any past experiences you’ve had with therapy. You’re welcome to share at your own pace. We’ll also discuss scheduling, fees, and answer any questions you have so you know what to expect moving forward