Because, What am I supposed to expect? is a completely reasonable question.

Starting therapy can feel a little weird. You’re essentially meeting a stranger and saying, “Hi, here are some of my most complicated thoughts and feelings. Please don’t think I’m ridiculous.” I probably won’t. You’re allowed to have questions.

What happens during the first session?

The first session is an opportunity for us to get to know each other and talk about what brings you to therapy. There will be some questions, some conversation, and probably a little bit of, “Okay, where do we even start?” You don't need to arrive with your life neatly summarized in chronological order. There is no PowerPoint presentation required. We’ll talk about what’s been going on, what you’d like to be different, and what you hope to get from therapy. We’ll also make sure we’re a good fit for working together.

Do I have to know exactly what’s wrong before I come to therapy?

Absolutely not! You can come in knowing exactly what you want to work on or just that something feels wrong but you having no idea what that might be.  Or you can come in with, “I am tired, overwhelmed, and I would like to stop feeling like everyone’s unpaid emotional support department.” All are valid starting points and we’ll figure out the rest together.

What if I cry?

It tells me you’re human with emotions. You can cry. You are also allowed not to cry. You can laugh, get frustrated, stare at the ceiling while searching for the right words, or say, “I don't know how to explain this.” There is no correct emotional performance here.  Fun fact:  there is cortisol in our tears.  That doesn’t mean crying will lower your cortisol but you may feel some relief.  And yes, there will be tissues.

Do you work with women who have a hard time setting boundaries?

Yes. Especially the kind of person who says, “I need to set a boundary.”  …and then immediately feels guilty, anxious, selfish, mean, dramatic, unreasonable, and possibly responsible for the other person's childhood. If that sounds familiar, you are not alone.

What if the person in my life has an addiction but I’m the one looking for therapy?

That is absolutely something we can work on. You don't have to be the person with the addiction to be deeply affected by it. Living with or loving someone who struggles with addiction can impact your emotions, relationships, sense of safety, finances, trust, boundaries, and overall well-being. Therapy can be a place to focus on your experience and what you need, not another place where you must figure out how to fix someone else.

What if I’m not sure I’m ready for counseling?

It’s okay to be unsure. Reaching out is just a conversation. There is no pressure, only support.

How long will I need therapy?

There isn't one universal answer. Some people come in to work through a specific situation. Others are ready to explore longstanding patterns and make deeper changes. We'll periodically check in about your progress and goals so therapy continues to feel purposeful and useful.

Do you offer online sessions?

I offer in-person sessions in El Paso, Texas, as well as telehealth throughout Texas. Telehealth can be particularly helpful when you don't feel like putting on real pants just to leave the house. Yoga pants for the win!

Where are you licensed and why are you working under supervision?

I am an LPC in Texas and an LMHC in New Mexico (I am under supervision in NM). Working under supervision means I am provisionally licensed and gaining hours towards full independent licensure. It is kind of like a doctor who is in their residency. I am currently learning new skills and gaining fresh perspective while my supervisors ensure I am providing the best care to my clients.

Do you take insurance?

In the state of New Mexico, I take BCBS, Medicaid, Medicare, Molina, United Healthcare, Presbyterian, and Optum.

Texas insurance accepted: Aetna, Cigna, Ascension (Healthsmart), Carelon, Blue Cross Blue Shield, and Medicare. Currently awaiting credentialing with United Healthcare Medicare Advantage and Tricare.

How do I get started?

Simply reach out. A gentle conversation is often the first step toward healing.