FAQs
What kind of certification or license do you have?
I am a fully licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) in the state of North Carolina since 2013 (license # C008498). This license allows me to be a “therapist” or “psychotherapist,” able to provide mental and behavioral health services in individual and group settings.
What is your training?
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A Master's in Social Work (MSW) from East Carolina University, 2008
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Basic Chaplaincy Institute by Federation of Fire Chaplains, 2017
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Duke-UNC Collaborative for Tobacco Treatment Specialists program, 2019
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Full EMDR Training (40 hours), 2020
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Certification, Financial Social Work, 2022
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Interest and training in many modalities of mind-body-spirit including meditation, spiritual connection and the impact of mental health on chronic medical conditions, among others.
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Disaster response and recovery as a social worker, mental health provider and community volunteer
Who are your clients?
I work with adults (male/female/non-binary) ages 18 and older who are committed to the work of changing thoughts and behaviors as part of becoming their best selves and enjoying Life more.
What about medication?
Medication can only be prescribed by a licensed medical provider, which I am not. If medication is a necessary part of your individual plan, we will work with your preferred medical provider for optimal care.
What is therapy like?
At your first visit, we gather a lot of information about your individual needs. It's also when we decide how to move forward. That's right – we collaborate on goals that work for you. This visit is typically 90 minutes.
Depending on your needs, other sessions may be 30, 45 or 60 minutes. Often, especially at the beginning of our work together, we will meet weekly.
What about virtual (video) visits?
I work with clients in-person and via virtual (telehealth/video) sessions. Telehealth is completed via a HIPAA secured platform. It is can offer convenience for travel, weather or ability to access services in rural and underserved areas.
Telehealth is an option that many insurance plans cover, but you need to verify with your insurer before we engage in services.
Licensing rules are based in each state. I am licensed only in North Carolina. As a general rule, I can only conduct virtual visits when you are located in North Carolina. This means if you are traveling (or live) out of state, we will not be able to meet by video for sessions.
How long will I be in therapy?
Treatment length is based on your unique needs. It is typical to expect at least three to six months as a minimum for treatment. However, based on your goals, therapy may be longer or shorter. Each individual is different. Remember: all change requires energy, from you and from me, and in our work together.
What about insurance?
A mental health diagnosis is required by health insurers to pay for services. I am a participating “in-network” provider for the following insurers:
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Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina (BCBS of NC), except certain HMO plans
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State Health Plan of North Carolina "Clear Pricing Project" (administered by BCBS of NC)
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Medicare (“original” or “regular” fee-for-service Medicare only)
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MedCost
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Optum/United Behavioral Health
Although "out of network,"I have been credentialed with the following insurers to see clients at the out of network benefit level. Check with your benefits administrator regarding any necessary authorizations before scheduling.
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Tricare
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Cigna
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Aetna (specific plans)
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Humana Medicare Advantage Plan (PPO) for State Health Plan Medicare Retirees
This practice no longer participates in North Carolina Medicaid or Health Choice programs. This includes Healthy Blue or other plans for Medicaid recipients.
If you have another payment source, I may choose to work with it. Please discuss with me before any visits.
You have the right to request a claim not be filed to your insurance company. Ask about this option before services are received.
If you do not use insurance or other program to pay for services, you are considered “private pay.” Private pay clients generally pay the full amount for services received.
So, really, what about the money?
Fees are $135 for initial session with remaining sessions $65-$110 each, dependent on the time we spend together. Patients are responsible for amounts not covered by an insurance plan. Payment is expected at the time of service unless a payment plan is established. You may pay with cash, check or credit/debit card.
Payment is only one aspect of the therapeutic relationship. Let's talk about it in our consultation call.
Do you offer a sliding-scale for payments?
I do not offer a sliding-scale fee scale for uninsured or private pay clients. If you want to engage in therapy but finances are a barrier, please talk to me about payment options or other resources that may suit your needs.