Frequently asked questions

Yes. The first step is a free 15-minute phone consultation so you can get a feel for how I work and ask any questions before committing. Finding the right fit matters more than anything, and there is no pressure either way.

The first session is mostly about getting to know each other. We'll talk through what's bringing you in, a little of your history, and what you're hoping for. There's no pressure to have it all figured out. It's a conversation, and you set the pace.

Most clients start with weekly sessions, which helps us build momentum and trust early on. As things settle, some people move to every other week. We'll decide together what rhythm fits your life and your goals.

It depends on what you're working on and what you want from the work. Some people come for a focused stretch around a specific challenge; others stay longer to go deeper. We'll check in regularly about how things are going so you always have a say in the timeline.

For most people, yes. Research has found virtual therapy can be just as effective as meeting in person for a wide range of concerns, including couples work. What matters most is the relationship and the work itself, and both translate well to a secure video session.

Find a private, quiet space where you won't be interrupted, with a stable internet connection and headphones if you have them. For couples sessions, it helps to be in the same room. I'll send a secure video link before we meet, with no special software to install.

My office is in downtown Portland at 22 Free Street, Suite 402, for in-person sessions. I also offer telehealth to clients located anywhere in Maine. Because of how licensure works, I can only see clients who are physically located in Maine.

I'm an out-of-network, self-pay provider, which lets us focus the work on you rather than on insurance requirements. I provide a monthly superbill you can submit to your insurer; depending on your plan, out-of-network benefits may reimburse a portion of each session.

Yes. What you share in session is confidential and protected by law, with a few narrow exceptions required of all therapists, such as a serious risk of harm to yourself or someone else. I will walk you through exactly how confidentiality works at the start, so there are no surprises.

Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) is an attachment-based approach that helps people understand the emotions and needs underneath their conflict and disconnection. For couples, it focuses on breaking negative cycles and rebuilding a secure bond. I'm trained in EFT through its externship and core skills programs.

Internal Family Systems (IFS) is a compassionate, parts-based approach. It sees the mind as made up of different "parts," like an anxious part or an inner critic, and helps you relate to them with curiosity instead of conflict. I'm trained in IFS at the Level 1 program.