Frequently Asked Questions

  • What is it like to work with you?
    Warm, practical, and occasionally funny. I’m not here to hand you answers or tell you what your experience means. We get curious about why you respond the way you do, where it came from, and what you want to do with it now. You’ll leave sessions with tools you can use in real life.

    Who do you work with?
    Adults and teens 13+ across Washington, especially people-pleasers, parents, caregivers, and anyone who’s the responsible one and running on empty.

    What happens in the first session?
    The first session is a longer intake (60 to 90 minutes). We talk about what brought you in, your history, and what you’d like to change. You can ask me anything, too. By the end, we’ll have a rough plan for what to work on.

    How do I know if therapy is right for me?
    You don’t have to be in crisis. Many people come because they’re overwhelmed, stuck, or tired of saying yes to everything. A free consultation is a low-pressure way to find out.

  • What are your fees?
    Intake sessions and ongoing 50-minute sessions are both $145. Payment is due at the time of service.

    Do you accept insurance?
    I’m out-of-network and don’t bill insurance directly. I can provide a superbill you may submit for possible reimbursement. Contact your insurance company to ask about out-of-network benefits.

    Can I use my HSA or FSA card?
    Yes, HSA and FSA cards are accepted.

    Do you offer a sliding scale?
    A limited number of reduced-fee spots are available based on financial need and current availability via OpenPath Collective. Reach out with questions.

  • How do online sessions work?
    We meet by secure, HIPAA-compliant video from anywhere in Washington. All you need is a private space and a device. Many people find it easier to open up from home.

    Is online therapy private and secure?
    Sessions happen on a secure, HIPAA-compliant platform. I recommend a private space and headphones, and I’ll walk you through how to join before our first session.

    Do you offer in-person sessions?
    Not yet. A limited number of in-person sessions on the Key Peninsula will be available soon.

    Where in Washington do you work?
    Anywhere in the state, including Seattle, Tacoma, Olympia, Spokane, Vancouver, and the Key Peninsula, as long as you’re physically in Washington during our session.

  • What is EMDR?
    EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is a therapy recognized as an evidence-based treatment for trauma. While you focus on a “stuck” memory, we use bilateral stimulation, like eye movements or gentle tapping, which can help your brain reprocess it so it feels less intense. I’m EMDR-trained and working toward certification. Learn more → here.

    Does EMDR work online?
    Yes. I guide you through bilateral stimulation using on-screen eye movements or self-tapping, and we practice before we start.

  • Do you work with teens?
    Yes. I work with teens 13 and older on anxiety, people-pleasing, school stress, identity, and relationships. Learn more about teen therapy → here

    How are parents involved?
    Parents are encourage to collaborators throughout the therapy process. Teens also need room to talk openly, so we’ll talk together at the start about what stays private and when I’d need to involve a parent or guardian.

    My teen doesn’t want to go. Now what?
    Completely normal. A consultation is a low-stakes way to meet, and fit matters a lot with teens.

  • Do you work with parents of kids with exceptional needs?
    Yes. After years as a teacher and school counselor, I understand school systems, evaluations, and the toll of constant advocacy. Learn more about Parents & Caregivers → here

  • What does LMHCA mean?
    It stands for Licensed Mental Health Counselor Associate, which means I’m licensed in Washington and completing my supervised clinical hours under the supervision of Krystal Akin, M.Ed., LMHC.