Frequently Asked Questions

Reaching out does not commit you to counseling. It is simply a chance for us to connect, talk about what is bringing you here, and see whether working together feels like a good fit.
Not at all. Sometimes you know exactly what is happening. Sometimes you only know that something does not feel right. You do not have to arrive with the right words, a diagnosis, or a plan.
That makes sense. Talking with someone about the parts of life that feel difficult or uncertain can feel vulnerable. We can take things at a pace that feels manageable for you.

Begining Together

Notice of Privacy Document

I believe you are the expert on your own life. My role is not to tell you who to be or how to live. Counseling is a space where we can slow down, become curious about what is happening, and make room for whatever you are experiencing.
I may offer observations, questions, ideas, or information when they seem useful, but I am not here to hand you a list of things you should do. We will work together to understand what feels right for you.
Collaborative, honest, and straightforward. We're here to guide the process, bring ideas to the table, and keep things moving.
Many people begin with weekly counseling so that there is enough consistency to build a relationship and create momentum. Over time, we can talk about what frequency works best for you.
Tell me. Counseling is something we do together. If something is not working, we can talk about it, make adjustments, or reconsider what you need.

Our Time Together

Yes. I am neurodivergent myself, and I believe you should not have to change who you are to belong. Counseling can be a space to better understand yourself, honor your experiences, and explore what helps you live in a way that feels right for you.
There is no single right way to grieve. You may feel sadness, anger, relief, numbness, guilt, confusion, or even moments of joy. Sometimes grief does not look the way we expected it to. There is room for all of that here.
Yes. I am queer myself and provide LGBTQ+ affirming, person-centered counseling. You are welcome to bring your whole self into our work, whether your identity is central to what brings you to counseling or simply one part of who you are.
Yes. I work with individuals, relationships, and families of all kinds. You might come on your own, with a partner or partners, or with family. However your relationships are shaped, there is room here to explore what matters to you and how you want to be together.
Yes. Sometimes the hardest part is feeling like you have spent your life trying to figure out where you belong. Counseling can be a place where you do not have to perform, explain, or fit yourself into someone else’s idea of who you should be.

More Than a Label

No. You do not need a formal diagnosis to talk about experiences.
If you are using insurance, a diagnosis will be required for billing. If a diagnosis is needed, we will work together to explore what diagnosis, if any, best reflects your experiences.
If you prefer not to have a formal, recorded diagnosis, you can choose to self-pay for counseling. In that case, a diagnosis is not required.
I currently provide telehealth counseling to clients in Illinois and Missouri. With telehealth, the important thing is where you are physically located at the time of your session. You must be in Illinois or Missouri when we meet.
There is no single right way to grieve. You may feel sadness, anger, relief, numbness, guilt, confusion, or even moments of joy. Sometimes grief does not look the way we expected it to. There is room for all of that here.

A Few Things to Know

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