Frequently Asked Questions
Have questions about how therapy works at Cardinal Mental Health? You're not alone. Here are some answers to the things people often want to know before starting therapy.
How do I know if therapy is right for me?
If you’ve been feeling stuck, overwhelmed, disconnected, or unsure of how to move forward, therapy can provide clarity and support. You don’t need to wait until things feel “bad enough” — counseling is just as much about growth as it is about healing.
What if I’ve tried therapy before and it didn’t work?
That’s a common experience, and it doesn’t mean therapy can’t work for you. Finding the right fit matters. My approach is authentic, grounded, and tailored to you — blending practical tools with space for reflection and deeper insight. Sometimes it takes a few tries to find a therapist who feels like the right match, and that’s okay.
How much does therapy cost?
My fee is $140 per 50-minute session. Payment is due at the time of service, and I accept debit/credit cards, HSA/FSA cards, and Venmo.
I reserve a limited number of sliding-scale spots for clients who may not be able to afford the full fee. Please feel free to ask about availability if cost is a concern.
Investing in therapy is an investment in yourself. While it may feel like a big step, many clients find the benefits — improved relationships, reduced stress, and greater self-understanding — ripple into every part of their lives.
Do you accept insurance?
I do not bill insurance directly. Here’s why: insurance companies require therapists to assign you a mental health diagnosis and often limit coverage to short-term, highly structured treatment plans. This can put restrictions on the pace and depth of the work we do together.
By staying out-of-network, I’m able to focus on your needs — not the insurance company’s requirements. This means we can work at your pace, address multiple concerns if needed, and avoid labeling you with a diagnosis unless it’s clinically appropriate and useful for your care.
That said, I can provide a superbill upon request, which some clients use to seek partial reimbursement from their insurance provider. I encourage you to check with your plan to see if they cover out-of-network therapy.
Do you offer sliding scale rates?
At this time, I’ve reached capacity for sliding scale and pro-bono clients. My goal is to provide affordable care where I can, but space is limited. I can put you on a list and contact you when space is available.
Do you see couples or families?
I focus on individual therapy. My work centers on helping adults through challenges like grief, anxiety, depression, and identity-related stress.
What kinds of concerns do you specialize in?
I work with adults (and sometimes teens) navigating anxiety, grief, parenting challenges, difficult childhoods, and struggles with relationships or connection. I also support parents of gender-diverse kids who are looking for guidance and affirmation in their parenting journey.
Do you work with LGBTQ+ clients and families?
Yes. My practice is affirming of LGBTQ+ identities, and I am especially passionate about supporting parents of gender-diverse and transgender children. Everyone deserves a safe, respectful, and affirming space where they can be fully themselves.
Where are you located?
I currently see clients in Western Washington, virtually only at the moment.
How do I book a session?
You can request an appointment through the website or reach out via the contact form. Once you’re a client, you’ll use the client portal for scheduling and communication.
What can I expect in my first session?
Our first session is about getting to know each other. I’ll ask about what brings you in, your goals for therapy, and any past experiences you’ve had with counseling. It’s also a chance for you to see if my style feels like a good fit. You don’t need to have anything figured out — just showing up is the first step.
How long does therapy take?
The length of therapy really depends on your needs and goals. Some clients come in for just a few months to work on a specific concern, while others find ongoing support to be most helpful. We’ll check in regularly to see what’s working and adjust as we go.
Do you assign homework or provide tools between sessions?
Sometimes, yes. I often suggest reflections, journaling prompts, or practical tools you can try between sessions. These aren’t graded assignments — think of them as invitations to deepen your process and experiment with new strategies. You’re always in charge of what feels helpful and what doesn’t.
Can parents join sessions with teens, or is therapy individual only?
For teen clients, therapy is primarily individual so they have a private space to talk. That said, there are times when it’s helpful to invite parents in for part of a session — whether to share progress, improve communication, or address a family challenge together. I’ll discuss these options with the teen and family to decide what feels most supportive.