FAQs

Do you do telehealth?

Yes! I welcome it in fact! Prior to the pandemic I traveled all over the state to see children and families in person. I have always done therapy in person as well.

But that said, during the pandemic, I pivoted to telehealth and video interviewing and was amazed by how much more effective it seems, and how the comfort afforded to clients creates a better environment for them to be open, less stressed and provide clear information.

My belief is that telehealth benefits you. It saves a family time and money in travel and allows a person to talk/interview from the comfort of their familiar surroundings.

And let’s face it, some of us are just not comfortable with face to face format in an office, and that is okay! And while our office is well ventilated with a firm mask policy, that is not everyone’s cup of tea.

The video chat feature is easy, requires minimal technology experience, and my website gives you a choice when you schedule. It is as simple as clicking a link.

This option works for all services I provide, including therapy and evaluations.

Do I have to interact with my ex?

Yes and no. (Of course, where there is a DVPO or 50-B the answer is clearly no.)

I take a case by case approach in making a professional decision of how it will go, especially based on the service being provided. There is great value in coming together, it allows me to see how you communicate, and assures that all “hear” the same information.

I realize that sometimes personality issues get in the way of communication so at times, I will talk to each party alone to get perspectives, but the odds are, at some point, it will help to come together if possible because parent’s need to communicate somehow, some way.

There is a lot of co-parenting ahead of you, to learn to communicate in a new way together. Sometimes, though, it is just not possible and we can go from there.

This is a case by case professional decision. Avoidance does not mean unsafe. And we can work through those issues.

This is where telehealth can be really valuable in allowing me to monitor the conversation and communication, mute when necessary, and assure everyone has a voice in navigating an issue.

Are kids included?

On a limited basis and again, it depends on the service.

I like to hear from them on what their experience is, and how things are effecting them right now and what would make things better for them. Some types of evaluation really need this interview, like a child safety evaluation or child custody evaluation.

In parenting coordination, it is also important to get that voice. It also gives me a chance to evaluate any alliance issues, or emerging resist refuse dynamics for referral. I also like to be able to communicate with their therapists for perspectives when possible.

What about partners and step-parents?

The village encircling the child is so very important, especially in establishing consistency across homes, and healthier functioning. This decision is made on a case by case basis.

Will you go to court?

Yes. If served with subpoena, I go to court. Please review my fee schedule. For parenting coordination work that is billed per the outline of the court percentage wise, to each parent and will be taken from the retainer. Releases for parent attorney’s will be signed before services begin.

Is your office COVID compliant?

Our office has an air ventilation system, and has a mask requirement, with proper wearing of masks still in place. It is our policy. No exceptions.

How does payment work?

We try to make this easy and it is all done online. I do not accept insurance, as the majority of services won’t be covered. I will provide a receipt for therapy services.

All payments MUST made prior to services being provided. Payment for individual sessions should be made online prior to arrival. My staff will send a reminder if it has not been paid, as the session will be rescheduled if needed. A credit card can be kept online.

Parenting coordination and evaluations require at least a week in advance, retainer and I will bill that as each session or contact occurs. The retainer will require replenishment once it is at 1,000 dollars, to assure payment is readily available. Services will stop if the retainer falls below that level.

A retainer is required for court services ahead of the hearing. This must be paid at least 2 weeks in advance in order for me to block my work schedule for your needs. Any unused funds will be returned.

As noted, families will be billed for phone calls, reading and responding to emails, and emergency services.