Frequently Asked Questions

A trained therapist can help people make lifestyle changes. They can also help identify underlying causes of symptoms and provide strategies for changing unwanted thoughts and behaviors. Therapy can equip people with the skills to manage symptoms, reduce stress, and improve their quality of life.

The information you share with me during therapy sessions is considered confidential information and is protected by state law. As a Licensed Professional Counselor I cannot reveal to third parties whether or not you are a past or current client of mine and cannot disclose any of the information you discuss during our sessions without first obtaining your written consent to do so.

In the following instances, however, I may be mandated or allowed to share information without your written consent:

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• If during your therapy, you are deemed to pose a threat of harm to someone else or to yourself, I am allowed to collaborate with the police or a hospital to take necessary measures to prevent harm from happening.

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 • If you talk about events that lead me to believe that a child under the age of 18 or an elderly or disabled person is at risk for emotional, physical or sexual abuse, neglect, or exploitation, I am required by state law to make a report to Texas Family and Protective Services with or without your consent.

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• If you are not yet 18 years of age, your parents or legal guardians may have access to your records and may authorize release of information to other parties on your behalf.

• If you disclose sexual misconduct by a previous therapist I am required to make a report to the licensing board governing the license of the therapist. 

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• If a judge in a court of law orders me to release information or if I need to respond to a lawfully issued subpoena. 

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• If I need to cooperate with legal actions against a mental health professional by a licensing board.

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 • If you submit an out-of-network health insurance claim and the insurance provider needs information to authorize the therapy or the billing.

Mental Health issues are very common. The National Institute of Mental Health estimates that more than one in five U.S. adults live with mental illness. Mental illness can vary in severity and degrees. A lot of people seek therapy to help deal with stress or learn to communicate more effectively. Mental Health importance has become a large topic of conversation now and the stigma that it used to carry has diminished in the U.S. greatly. 

I can treat a variety of mental illnesses and I have a lot of experience with a wide array of issues. The best way to know if I can help you is to call and discuss your issue. I will always be honest with you if I feel that I may not be able to be of assistance to you.

Therapy largely depends on your level of engagement and willingness to be honest and vulnerable with yourself. Some people find helpful coping skills within a few visits and others find it helpful to see a therapist for a while. It all depends on what your needs are and what you are looking for out of therapy. As a counselor it is unethical of me to continue services with someone who is no longer benefiting from therapy.

Starting therapy can be scary. It might feel weird to think about sharing personal information with a stranger. The first session often is focused on gathering information and getting to know each other a little better. I understand that most people do not want to jump right in and share intimate pieces of their life with someone they don’t know. I will ask questions about your life and your mental and physical health. I will also ask about your goals for therapy and make sure I have a clear understanding of what you are looking for. My goal is to help you feel comfortable and safe sharing with me. As we get to know each other we will discuss the best course of action for your situation.