What theory of Therapy do you practice?
The two therapy theories that I adhere closest to are Solution-Focused and Existentialism. These theories are very different and the usage of them depends on how deeply the client is ready to go in our time together.

Is there any way I can meet you before starting therapy?
Establishing rapport is probably the single most important factor in whether or not a person will be successful in therapy. I do offer 30 minute free in-person consultations; additionally, you are welcome to give me a call or contact me via email.

What is Protective Parenting? Is it different from regular Parenting Classes?
Protective Parenting shares many characteristics with regular parenting by providing training and support to parents, relatives, and other caregivers to improve their parenting skills in raising and communicating with their children. Protective parenting goes a bit further by targeting families in crisis and including the goals of preventing recurrences of abuse and neglect in families receiving social services, working to lower the rate of teenage pregnancies, reducing the rate of juvenile delinquency and alcohol abuse, and stopping the intergenerational cycle of child abuse by teaching positive parenting behaviors.

I am mandated by CPS to take parenting classes. Do these classes count?
In most cases, yes. The Nurturing Parenting Program curriculum is approved by the Department of Family and Protective Services. It is always best to ask your caseworker prior to beginning. I am also happy to speak to your worker if there are any questions.

CPS said they would pay for Protective Parenting because they are requiring me to take it.
I am contracted with DFPS for treatment services. In most cases, this means that they will pay for the course. Prior to enrolling, a referral will need to be received by your caseworker. If you make an appointment prior to DFPS caseworker approval, you will be responsible for paying for the session.

If I see you for parenting classes can I also see you for therapy?
There have been circumstances where I have seen clients for both. The parenting classes are curriculum-driven and time sensitive while the therapy is geared more towards a goal set by the client. If you feel that I can be of service to you in both capacities, we can discuss doing two separate types of sessions.

Do you have a "sliding scale" fee?
I do not have a sliding scale fee at this time, but I do work with Master's level interns who can provide a sliding scale fee. Please contact me for more details.

What is the difference between Batterer's Intervention, DV 101 and Anger Management?
The Batterer's Intervention curriculum is focused on addressing specific behaviors unique to family violence. Anger management is a much more general course and focuses on self-regulation. Batterer's Intervention is for perpetrators of family violence while DV101 is specifically for victim education.

Is therapy confidential?
In general, the law protects the confidentiality of all communications between a client and psychotherapist. No information is disclosed without prior written permission from the client.

However, there are some exceptions required by law to this rule. Exceptions include:

• Suspected child abuse or dependent adult or elder abuse. The therapist is required to report this to the appropriate authorities immediately.
• If a client is threatening serious bodily harm to another person. The therapist is required to notify the police.
• If a client intends to harm himself or herself. The therapist will make every effort to work with the individual to ensure their safety. However, if an individual does not cooperate, additional measures may need to be taken.

Do you accept insurance or Medicaid?
Yes, I am on the panel for several Managed Care Providers including traditional Medicaid.