Individual Therapy is conducted at my office in Friendswood. Workshops and retreats are held at different locations, most local to Pearland, TX. Grief groups are also held in multiple locations in Pearland, TX. Online sessions are available for anyone who would prefer that modality. 

Depending on the service requested most sessions for counseling are $130 per 50 minute session

Grief Groups are $40 a week with the understanding that the total for all sessions is due by the first group meeting. 

Retreat and workshop costs vary depending on the length of stay and the type of room requested. 

I currently am In Network with Aetna and Optum and Out of Network with other major insurances.

The biggest drawback of out-of-pocket private pay is that it is an immediate out-of-pocket expense. However, there are several advantages of private pay that may make the expense worthwhile.

Confidentiality and Privacy

Clients who pay out of pocket are guaranteed that the only people who know any of the details of therapy are themselves and their therapist.  Aside from normal limits to confidentiality, therapy is completely confidential, without any third party being privy to information exchanged in session.

Service Without Hindrances, Pressure or Stigma

Most insurance providers require a mental health diagnosis in order for therapy to be covered. When clients pay out-of-pocket, there is no requirement of a mental health diagnosis for treatment, which means that anyone can seek treatment. Private pay also carries the additional benefit of reducing pressure to pathologize normal individuals who simply need help coping with some area of life. 

It is important to understand that once a diagnosis becomes a part of your permanent medical record it can potentially effect the consideration of future policies, such as, Life Insurance, Short and Long Term Disability. 

Freedom in Treatment

Private pay clients have complete control of the duration and style of their treatment. Modalities that are ethically viable but not covered by insurance are open to private pay clients. Private pay clients are able to choose the focus of their therapy, the duration of therapy, and the frequency of therapy, and even the length of individual sessions.

Your Choice

If you choose not to use insurance you will need to sign an “opt out form” if it is an insurance I am In-network with. 

The counseling process is, in many ways, like an educational experience. The client not only learns more about him/herself, but also acquires new skills. Sometimes, counseling involves learning more about a particular condition (e.g., depression, anxiety, eating disorders) by which the client is affected, so that he/she can better understand treatment options. Below are some examples of what clients can gain from personal/psychological counseling:

• improved communication and interpersonal skills
• greater self-acceptance and self-esteem
• ability to change self-defeating behaviors/habits
• better expression and management of emotions, including anger
• relief from depression, anxiety or other mental health conditions
• increased confidence and decision-making skills
• ability to manage stress effectively
• improved problem-solving and conflict resolution abilities