Vox Psychotherapy
Helping people to find their voice
Frequently asked questions
Is this right for me?
We're a good team if...You've been told you're strong, smart, beautiful, and an all-around rockstar....but you don't believe it no matter how much you want to. You have the potential to do a real kick-ass job at things in life. Your inner critic is super loud and your inner advocate needs some help getting equal footing.
And your ideal therapist is... Someone that's got your back, but isn't afraid to act as a reality check when you need it. Able to be irreverent and use dark humour, but cares about your comfort level. Doesn't take themselves too seriously. Isn't afraid to hold your metaphorical hand while we do a deep dive into your down-and-dirty. Doesn't hijack your session- they know it's your session, not theirs! Still thinks you're a BAMF, not just in spite of your stuff, but because of your stuff.
This being said, there are some clients that I ethically have to refer to other clinicians.
Severe anxiety
Severe depression
Anyone with active suicidal thoughts
Anyone seeking letters or paperwork
Anyone seeking treatment for substance or alcohol use
Anyone who is trying to bring a dissenting partner into a kink lifestyle or non-monogamy
Anyone who is experiencing current and active intimate partner violence
If this includes you, it's not because you're "too sick" or "broken." Either I cannot physically be there for these folks in the way that I need to be, or I don't have sufficient training, or I have a hard boundary about it. I am happy to help you find someone who is a better fit.
How long are sessions?
Initial consultations run 30 minutes. This is a chance to figure out if you like my style.
Intake sessions run 60-90 minutes. Intakes are generally longer because we need to cover a lot of ground both in covering any questions about your history form, and to start putting together a treatment plan.
Regular sessions follow the traditional 50 minute model. Shorter (30 minute) sessions are also available; these sessions tend to be best for people who have made their gains and are doing "booster" sessions to stay well.
Do you offer a sliding scale?
I follow the equitable pricing model for those clients who find themselves facing a temporary financial crisis, and keep a limited number of spots for these clients. What is the equitable pricing model? Basically 'pay what you can afford, bearing in mind the average going rate for therapy.' Clients who are financially fortunate are also able to pay above my regular fee, if they would like to help out other clients in need.
If this is an option we need to explore, we can put our heads together on solutions.
Do you take insurance?
A lot of people have strong opinions on insurance. I'm one of them.
Insurance tends to be more a hassle than a help when it comes to therapy. Anyone who's ever had to call and deal with an insurance company knows how much of a day-ruiner it can become.
Therapy stays more private, less restricted, and overall safer when we don't have to deal with insurance shenanigans.
Currently, I am paneled with Aetna, UHC/UMR, Optum, and Cigna. Most patients have out of network benefits they can use for mental health. Let me know if that's something you want to explore.
Do you see patients in person?
I currently see patients virtually.
I use a HIPAA compliant Zoom account for sessions, and Doxy.me as a backup if Zoom is being naughty.
My billing is handled through Alma. Please let me know if you have any questions about Alma.
Do you see couples or families?
I don't. When you have heart issues, you can always see your regular doctor, but you'd get better treatment with a cardiologist. For couples (or more,) I will help you find a marriage and family therapist, as they have specific training on the unique needs and issues that come up in a couple (or poly, more, etc.) relationship.
Do you see kiddos or teens?
Unfortunately, I don't see anyone below the age of 18. Therapy with kiddos and teens is specialized work and it's outside of my wheelhouse. I will be happy to help you find someone who does, however.
What is your cancellation policy?
If you need to cancel or reschedule, please do so at least 24 hours before your scheduled appointment.
A cancellation/rescheduling fee of $50 will be charged to the card on file if cancelled or rescheduled with less than 24 hour notice.
I need an assessment for court/my doctor/school, etc. Can you do those?
I do not offer testing. If you need testing, let me know and I'll be happy to try to help you find someone who can do that for you.
What payment forms do you take?
Currently I take credit cards, debit cards, and HSA/FSA cards.
Due to the remote nature of teletherapy, I cannot take cash or check. I also cannot take Venmo or Paypal, as they are not HIPAA compliant.
Cards are processed through the onboard credit card processing offered through your Alma account.
How can I communicate with you?
Email is the best way to get ahold of me. Email cannot take the place of a session and be aware that even with all the best encryption, it's still possible to breech privacy on email, so you assume all liability of inappropriate use of your info if we communicate via email. I do use HIPAA compliant email through GSuite, so be assured that I do everything I can on my end to prevent that.
I make every effort to return calls as soon as I'm aware of them. I do not return calls that do not leave a voicemail.
I need someone to fill out a disability form/FMLA form/emotional support animal letter. Can you do that?
Unfortunately, I do not. Please do not make an appointment for these. I will have to disappoint you.
What should I expect from therapy? What should I do when I come see you?
Above all, come prepared to talk. Put some bullet points on a Post-It, keep a journal, keep a vlog, whatever. The foundational concept behind my practice is helping others to be able to speak for themselves. Therapy is an excellent place to start developing that skill.