Answers to some common questions:
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Do you accept insurance?
We are not in-network with any insurance providers but can provide a Superbill you can use to submit for “out of network” reimbursement.
How can therapy improve my relationships?
Therapy is most effective when it is an experiential process. By using a combination of emotional corrective experiences and good information around difficult topics, the nervous system learns to adjust and individuals become empowered to ask for and meet their needs in effective ways. Think of it like physical therapy for your emotional system. You have been using it one way- resulting in pain. Together we understand why and how that is happening so you can use your emotions (walk on your ankle) in a way that no longer hurts.
How long does therapy take and how often do we need to meet?
Treatment is based on individual needs. The longer painful patterns have been in place, the harder they are to change. Most people find it helpful to meet weekly at first and taper off as symptoms improve.
Are online therapy sessions available?
Yes, we offer convenient online sessions to ensure accessibility and comfort for our clients. Some clients and situations may not be suitable for online therapy. Please consult with Michelle to find out if you are a good fit.
What about medication?
Some challenges are made more difficult because of our biological make-up. Often, we find ourselves stuck in long-standing patterns that can be hard to break without support. Michelle is here to assist you in collaborating with your prescriber and make sure any medication you choose to take is a good fit and compliments your goals. On average, it takes the body 9 months to a year to adapt to new patterns. Changes made in therapy or with medication need to keep that time-line in mind so they remain even long after therapy is over.
Do you have experience working with addiction?
Yes, while we do not have all the resources sometimes necessary for addiction recovery, relationship therapy can be a powerful component in addressing behaviors getting in the way of our connections.
Do you have experience working with affairs?
Yes, Michelle has specific training and experience in working with this very painful piece that can often enter and damage the trust in relationships.
Do you work with polyamorous or open relationships?
Yes, Michelle has experience working with many types of relationship dynamics. Ultimately therapy is designed to foster more self-awareness and give you the experience and tools to communicate clearly with your partners. Those who live in open and/or poly relationships need those skills at the highest level to maintain trust and safety for all of their partners.
If we are doing couple’s work, can I work with you individually?
No. To have couple’s therapy be effective, both partners need to feel the therapist equally connected and empathetic with their position in the cycle. Additional time and therapy naturally creates a conflict of interest and can leave one partner feeling “ganged up on”. It is sometimes helpful to do individual work while engaged in couple’s therapy; especially when healing from betrayals. Your couple’s therapist can coordinate with your individual therapist to make sure your goals align and treatment is supportive. .
The first step is the most vulnerable.
Schedule a consultation with Michelle and get started. You don’t have to do this alone.
