Frequently Asked Questions

What to expect!

Consult Call

A free 15 minute phone consult to see if Melanie is the best trauma therapist for you or your teen.

Paperwork

You will also receive two emails that will contain links to the intake paperwork and an invite to our secure client portal. All intake paperwork must be completed at least 12 hours prior to the start of your appointment. 

First Session

During your first session, we will take time to get comfortable and identify a couple areas of growth. You control the pace.

Frequently Asked Questions:

What are your session fees?

$150 per 50 minutes session.

What if I can’t afford your rate? Do you offer sliding scale?

Yes, I reserve a limited number of sliding scale spots in my schedule. If you do not think you can afford my full fee, please don’t hesitate to contact me.

If I’m unable to offer you a sliding scale spot, I’d be happy to offer referrals to trusted clinicians in the area.

Do you accept insurance?

I accept Aetna. I am an Out-of-Network provider for most insurance companies. This means I can provide you with a receipt (Superbill in insurance terms) which you can send to your insurance company for reimbursement. Since I don’t guarantee it will be accepted by your insurance provider, I encourage all clients who want to do this to call their insurance company first to make sure if your benefits apply.

Do you currently have openings for new clients?

Currently have evening availability for new clients (updated Fall 2024). I serve clients ages 12+.

Can I swear?

May be silly, but definitely my most commonly asked question. Absolutely, this is a safe space to express yourself authentically and I just ask that we share a mutual respect towards each other.

What issues DON’T you work with?

Working with a clinician that specializes in the issues you’re struggling with allows trust to strengthen and flourish. We also want you to get the help you deserve. Because of these beliefs and since we are an out-patient clinic, unfortunately, we would not be well suited to work with the following issues:

  • Active substance abuse

  • Active self-harm

  • Eating disorders

How many sessions do you recommend?

That’s a difficult question to answer with specifics since this process is so completely dependent upon the individual. The simple answer is that it will take less time the more you practice the skills and mindset shifts that you will learn in sessions. We are not a quick-fix, short-term solution-oriented practice.

Typically clients begin with once per week appointments. Clients work with our clinicians anywhere from three months to several years – the healing journey takes time!

“Vulnerability is not weakness; it's our greatest measure of courage.”

— Brene Brown