Counseling FAQs: What You Need to Know - West Chester, PA
How long is a typical session?
Sessions last 50 to 60 minutes. They can be in-person or virtual via Google Meet.
What does a session typically look like?
Sessions vary widely in structure and scope. Sessions consist of exploring thoughts, ideas, feelings, and experiences. We also set goals and benchmarks to measure your growth!
How often can we meet?
I am extremely flexible in finding the pacing and timing that supports your journey. Some of my clients meet with me multiple times a week, while others visit once a week. I also work with clients every other week or once a month. My goal is to find the frequency that works best for you, and I am always available to discuss what schedule fits your needs.
Are you in-network with insurance companies?
I am not in-network with insurance companies for five main reasons:
Individualized Care: I prioritize providing a high level of individualized care, which can be challenging to achieve within the limitations imposed by insurance companies.
Clinical Autonomy: Insurance companies often dictate the type, frequency, and duration of therapy. This can limit my ability to provide personalized care tailored to your specific needs.
Value of Service: The reimbursement rates offered by insurance companies do not adequately reflect the specialized value and expertise I provide to my clients.
Privacy and Confidentiality: Billing insurance requires me to provide a diagnosis and treatment information. This becomes part of your permanent medical record. I prefer to protect your privacy and keep your sensitive information confidential.
Wellness vs. Illness: Many individuals seek therapy for personal growth or life transitions which may not align with a diagnosable mental health condition, often resulting in denied claims by insurance.
How does payment work?
I accept HSA/FSA cards as well as all major credit cards. I process all payments through Square, which adheres to the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS) to ensure your information remains secure.
Do you work with and consult with outside providers?
Yes. I work with local psychiatrists, doctors, and school districts to provide wrap-around support. For example, I often attend IEP and 504 meetings at schools to advocate on a client’s behalf. Additionally, I collaborate closely with psychiatrists to ensure appropriate medication support when needed.
What are the signs of executive functioning issues in high school students?
In high school, executive functioning struggles often look like "procrastination" or "laziness," but are actually difficulties with task initiation, time management, and organization. Signs include losing assignments, feeling overwhelmed by multi-step projects, or having a significant gap between high intelligence and actual grades. My counseling helps students develop personalized "brain systems" to bridge this gap.
Why should athletes see a counselor for performance anxiety?
As a former coach, I understand that mental barriers are just as significant as physical ones. Counseling helps athletes identify triggers for "choking," build resilience after injury (like concussions), and develop a positive mindset that enhances focus both on and off the field.
Can a private counselor help me navigate my child's IEP or 504 plan?
Yes - Leveraging my experience as a former high school counselor, I help parents in the West Chester area and beyond understand the intricacies of school-based supports. We work together to identify necessary accommodations and request the right assessments so your child’s educational environment matches their mental health needs.
What does ADHD counseling for students and adults look like?
My approach to ADHD counseling focuses on practical strategies for executive functioning, time management, and emotional regulation. We work together to move past "feeling stuck" by building systems that work with your unique brain rather than against it. Whether you are a high schooler struggling with deadlines or an adult navigating workplace challenges, our sessions are action-oriented and supportive.
Do you work with high school student-athletes on burnout and college recruiting stress?
Absolutely. The pressure of being a student-athlete is immense. I help students balance the demands of academics, intense practice schedules, and the emotional toll of the college recruiting process. My goal is to prevent burnout and ensure that sports remain a source of joy and growth rather than just another stressor.
Do you have experience navigating the IEP and 504 process within local Pennsylvania school districts and private schools?
Yes, I have helped families in the following school districts and schools:
Unionville Chadds Ford School District
Avon Grove School District
West Chester Area School District
Garnet Valley School District
Kennett Consolidated School District
Downingtown Area School District
Tredyffrin-Easttown School District
Great Valley School District
Haverford Township School District
Radnor Township School District
Upper Darby School District
Fusion Academy
Westtown School
Salesianum School
Sanford School
The Tatnall School
Tower Hill School
Do you offer ADHD counseling for athletes in the Downingtown or Exton areas?
Yes! While my office is located in West Chester, PA, I provide both in-person and virtual counseling for student-athletes across Chester County, including Downingtown, Exton, Chadds Ford, and the Main Line. Many of the athletes I work with come from local programs like Downingtown West or Malvern Prep to work on focus, emotional regulation, and performance anxiety.
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