Therapy FAQs

In our first session, we’ll take time to talk about what has brought you to therapy and what you hope to gain from our work together. We may explore aspects of your history, always at a pace that feels comfortable for you—there is no expectation to share more than you’re ready to. Goals for therapy are collaborative and flexible, and we can revisit and adjust them at any point throughout the process. We’ll also review important policies and procedures so you feel informed, supported, and grounded in what to expect from therapy and from my practice.

Therapy isn't "just talking." Therapy promotes neuroplasticity, creating change within the brain by building and strengthening neural connections. Other benefits of therapy may include improvement in overall mood, insight, relationships, and physical health. Allison will also often incorporate experiential therapy in her work with clients. 

Session time may vary, however, the standard session length is 53 minutes to 1 hour. 

To me, therapy is a collaborative process. I deeply value the therapeutic partnership created between the therapist and client. We likely will discuss your progress throughout the therapy process and periodically assess the frequency of sessions. I welcome and encourage all clients to share their thoughts and feelings related to growth throughout therapy and their feelings about ending treatment. 

Yes, as a licensed independent clinical social worker (LICSW), I am trained to provide clients with accurate and appropriate diagnoses. This process may include reviewing your history, gathering your perspective, obtaining collateral information, administering diagnostic assessments, observing symptoms, mood, behavior, and relationships, and referencing the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual (DSM). That said, consistent with the foundation of my work, I approach diagnosis from a nonjudgmental and non-pathologizing perspective. This means that while diagnostic labels can be helpful, I prioritize your lived experience and how you understand yourself just as much as any formal diagnosis.

I often support clients who are neurodivergent, but if you are exploring whether you might be, I typically refer for psychological testing. These evaluations can be thorough and are helpful for identifying potential neurodevelopmental diagnoses, such as Autism Spectrum Disorder or ADHD.

I do not prescribe medication. However, if we decide it would be helpful, I can, with your permission, consult with your physician to share observations and discuss treatment, providing your prescriber with a more complete understanding of your symptoms and progress.

Research shows that teletherapy can be just as effective as in-person therapy for a variety of concerns, including depression and anxiety. Some clients enjoy the convenience and comfort of meeting from home, while others appreciate the change of scenery and the potential for fewer distractions when meeting in person. Everyone’s experience is a little different, and we can stay flexible in choosing the approach that feels most supportive for you.

Yes! We can still work together even if I don’t accept your insurance. Clients in this situation may want to explore whether they have any out-of-network benefits. Some insurance companies cover a significant portion, which can make working with a provider who doesn’t accept your insurance more affordable. Alternatively, we can proceed without using insurance, in which case sessions are billed at the self-pay rate. To learn more about my fees and out-of-network benefits, click here.