Frequently Asked Questions
FAQs
About the Practice
+ Do you see clients in person?
Yes, I see clients in person in my office in Decatur, GA. I have also been offering sessions via teletherapy through a HIPPA compliant secure online portal called Simple Practice.
+ What is teletherapy like?
I recommend having a private space for at least 1 hour and a good internet connection to improve video quality.
I am only licensed in the State of Georgia; all clients must be in Georgia for all appointments.
You will also be asked to verify your current address at the beginning of each appointment, in case of severe emergency.
+ What is a session like with you?
I have been described to have a very inviting, warm and highly colloborative approach with clients.
+ What should I expect in the first session?
In our initial intake session we will be reviewing the consent form packet and any initial session paperwork you have completed. I hope to get a holistic view of you, set goals together and answer any questions you may have.
+ Can I bring my baby to my therapy appointments?
In most cases yes! It can actually be helpful to bring your baby to some or many of your therapy appointments. I am happy to discuss this in more detail at your first appointment.
+ What is your rate for a session?
First initial intake session: 55+ mins | $165
Therapy Session: 55 mins | $150
+ Do you take insurance?
I do not take insurance. I am able to provide a superbill for possible reimbursement of your counseling sessions. I encourage you to contact your insurance company and ask about the reimbursement rate of out-of-network providers. See the insurance section of my website for more info on why I do not take insurance.
+ How many sessions will I need?
This depends on the reason bringing you here. Usually clients need more frequent therapy in the beginning. Once they begin feeling better, sessions are decreased. As everyone is different, this will be a collaborative process and a conversation with each client.
+ How frequently should I attend?
This depends on the person and their needs. However, regular attendance is important to ensure you full benefit in the long-term. Clients usually start at weekly, then biweekly, and then drop down from there for as needed sessions.
+ What should I do if I need help right away?
If you need emergency help, please call one of the below resources:
The Georgia Crisis and Access Line @ 1-800-715-4225 [https://www.georgiacollaborative.com/providers/georgia-crisis-and-access-line-gcal/][1]
The National Suicide Hotline @ 1-800-273-8255, [www.suicidepreventionlifeline.org][2]
About Perinatal Concerns
+ What is “Perinatal?”
Perinatal refers to the period during your entire pregnancy and for the first year of your baby’s life.
+ How do I know this isn’t just the Baby Blues?
Many new mothers experience what we call the “Baby Blues.” This consists of up and down mood and tearfulness. An estimated 60-80% of mothers experience this for the first 2-3 weeks following giving birth. This is normal and will resolve without medical assistance.
Symptoms that go beyond the "Baby Blues" during postpartum are: suicidal thoughts, energy that does not restore with sleep, lack of joy, changes in appetite, significant weight change, feelings of worthlessness, depressed mood most of the day nearly every day, irritable and poor concentration or focus. Check out my article on this topic here.
+ How common are Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders?
1 in 7 women will experience a Perinatal Mood Anxiety Disorder (PMAD). Some studies say up to 1 in 5 women and 3 in 5 women of color experience a Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorder.
+ What are Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders?
They include postpartum depression, postpartum anxiety, postpartum post traumatic stress disorder, postpartum obsessive compulsive disorder, postpartum bipolar disorder and postpartum psychosis.
+ How do I find out more information about Perinatal Disorders?
To find out more information on Perinatal/Postpartum Mental Health related concerns Postpartum Support International is a great place to start.
AJC Article by Laura Baldwin, LCSW
[https://www.postpartum.net/learn-more/pregnancy-postpartum-mental-health/][3]
https://www.cdc.gov/reproductivehealth/features/maternal-depression/index.html
https://www.nichd.nih.gov/ncmhep/initiatives/moms-mental-health-matters/moms
+ What are some great resources and support for moms?
Below you will find helpful resources for support and links to more detailed information on Perinatal Disorders.
Postpartum Support International Help Line