Frequently Asked Questions
Have questions about therapy? Find answers here. If you don't see what you're looking for, feel free to contact me directly.
Getting Started
How do I begin therapy with you?
Start by completing the New Client Intake form on this site. I'll review it and reach out within 1-2 business days to discuss your needs and schedule your initial consultation. The first session is a time for us to meet, build rapport, and create a plan tailored to your goals.
What should I expect in my first session?
Your first session is about getting to know each other. We'll discuss what brought you to therapy, explore your goals, talk about how I work, and establish safety and trust. I'll also gather some clinical information to help me understand your needs and create a therapeutic plan that honors your unique experience.
How often will we meet?
Most clients benefit from weekly 50-minute sessions, though frequency can be adjusted based on your needs and circumstances. We'll discuss what works best for you during our initial consultation.
How long is therapy?
The length of therapy varies based on your goals and what you're working through. Some people engage for a few months, others for longer. Trauma-informed therapy emphasizes going at your pace—we're not on a timeline. We'll check in regularly about progress and adjust as needed.
Confidentiality & Privacy
Is therapy confidential?
Yes, with important limits. What you share in therapy is confidential and protected by Texas law. I cannot disclose information without your written consent, except in rare circumstances: if you're a danger to yourself or others, if you're abusing a child or elder, or if legally required by court order. We'll discuss these limits in detail in your first session.
What happens to my information?
Your clinical records are stored securely and kept private. I comply with HIPAA regulations to protect your health information. You have the right to request a copy of your records or have them transferred to another provider.
Will my therapy information affect my job or clearances?
Therapy information is confidential and separate from employment or security clearance records. I do not report to employers or agencies unless you're ordered by a court or you've authorized me to share specific information. If you work in a field with reporting requirements, we'll discuss this openly.
Therapeutic Approaches
What does 'trauma-informed' mean?
Trauma-informed care recognizes how trauma affects the nervous system and relationships. It prioritizes safety, choice, collaboration, and empowerment. Rather than asking 'What's wrong with you?' it asks 'What happened to you?' and honors your resilience while supporting healing.
What is EMDR and how does it work?
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is an evidence-based therapy for trauma. We'll process traumatic memories while your brain's natural healing mechanisms are activated through bilateral stimulation (eye movements, sounds, or tapping). Many clients experience significant relief and shifts in how they relate to their past.
What is DBT and how can it help?
DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy) combines acceptance and change strategies. With my Evergreen Certifications, I teach practical skills for emotion regulation, distress tolerance, mindfulness, and relationship effectiveness. DBT is particularly helpful for intense emotions, relationship struggles, and self-harm urges.
What is IFS (Internal Family Systems)?
IFS therapy recognizes that we all have multiple 'parts'—different protective strategies or voices within. IFS helps you dialogue with these parts with compassion, understand their protective roles, and release patterns that no longer serve you. It's deeply healing for complex trauma.
What is the Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP)?
SSP is a neuroscience-based listening therapy using specially filtered music to help regulate your nervous system. Combined with the Rest and Restore Protocol, it can help shift you out of survival mode into states of safety and calm, supporting the deeper therapeutic work we do together.
What is Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP)?
KAP combines low-to-moderate doses of ketamine (administered in a medical setting) with intensive psychotherapy. Where clinically appropriate, KAP can catalyze profound shifts in how you relate to trauma, depression, anxiety, and disconnection. It's not a quick fix—it's integrated with ongoing therapeutic work.
Cost & Insurance
What is your fee?
Please contact me directly to discuss fees and payment options. I offer flexibility and am happy to discuss what works for your situation.
Do you accept insurance?
Please contact me directly to discuss insurance options. If you're using insurance, you'll receive a receipt you can submit to your insurance company for reimbursement.
Do you offer a sliding scale?
I work with clients to find sustainable payment arrangements. Let's discuss what works for you.
Cancellations & Emergencies
What is your cancellation policy?
I ask for 24 hours notice if you need to cancel or reschedule. Cancellations with less notice may be charged as a session fee. Life happens—let's communicate openly about what you need.
What if I'm in crisis?
If you're in crisis or having thoughts of harming yourself or others, please don't wait for a therapy session. Call 988 (Suicide & Crisis Lifeline), text 'HELLO' to 741741 (Crisis Text Line), or go to your nearest emergency room. These services are available 24/7 and are free and confidential.
Can I text or email between sessions?
I prioritize the therapeutic relationship and safety. For urgent concerns, please use crisis resources above. For non-urgent questions, we can discuss communication preferences during your first session.
Special Populations
Do you work with first responders and veterans?
Yes, I specialize in working with first responders and veterans who experience service-related trauma, moral injury, and occupational stress. I understand the unique challenges you face and bring deep clinical knowledge and respect to our work.
Do you work with LGBTQIA+ clients?
Yes, absolutely. I provide fully affirming, culturally humble therapy. Your identity is celebrated, not pathologized. I address complex trauma, identity questions, and safety concerns with full understanding and validation.
Do you work with immigrants?
Yes. I work with immigrants navigating migration-related trauma, acculturation stress, grief, and identity. I bring cultural humility and trauma-informed understanding to support your unique experience.
Do you work with children and adolescents?
Yes. I work with young people managing anxiety, ADHD, emotional dysregulation, and autism-related stressors. I use developmentally-informed, creative, and collaborative approaches tailored to their age and needs.
Questions About Me
What are your credentials?
I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Texas. I have advanced training in trauma-informed therapy, EMDR, DBT (Evergreen Certifications), IFS, and Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy. I'm committed to ongoing clinical education and supervision.
Why do you practice with Link to Hope?
Link to Hope represents my values: compassion, evidence-based care, diverse populations, and nervous system healing. Partnering with Link to Hope allows me to offer integrated care and resources that support your whole journey.
What's your therapeutic philosophy?
I believe healing happens in the context of safety, attunement, and genuine connection. Trauma is a nervous system response, not a character flaw. My role is to create a space where you can process what's happened, rebuild trust in your body and relationships, and rediscover your capacity for presence and resilience.
Still Have Questions?
Everyone's situation is unique. If you have questions that aren't answered here, I'd love to hear from you. Feel free to reach out—there are no silly questions, and I'm here to support your decision to take this step toward healing.