Offer an overview of what typically happens during an initial session, including intake paperwork, discussing goals, and establishing rapport.

I am an out-of-network provider. This means I am not contracted with any specific insurance company. If you want insurance to help you pay for therapy you will need to have out of network benefits.  

As the owner of Success & Wellbeing Couples and Family Therapy, I’ve made a deliberate choice not to accept insurance for my private practice. This decision stems from a commitment to provide the highest quality of care and personalized attention to my clients without the restrictions and administrative burdens often associated with insurance billing. By operating on a fee-for-service basis, I can focus entirely on tailoring treatment plans to meet the unique needs of each individual, couple, or family that walks through my doors. This approach allows for greater flexibility in treatment modalities, session durations, and scheduling, ensuring that my clients receive the comprehensive support they deserve to achieve their therapeutic goals.

When reaching out to your insurance provider to inquire about out-of-network benefits for psychotherapy, it’s essential to gather comprehensive information to make informed decisions about your mental health care. Here are some questions you might consider asking:

What are the specifics of my mental health coverage?

Do I have out-of-network benefits for psychotherapy?

Is there a deductible that needs to be met before coverage kicks in?

What percentage of the cost will be covered for out-of-network psychotherapy sessions?

Is there a maximum limit per session or per year for out-of-network psychotherapy coverage?

Are there any exceptions or special circumstances under which out-of-network psychotherapy might be covered at a higher rate?

Please do not hesitate to discuss your financial situation with me. Together, we can collaboratively explore and establish a fee arrangement that is mutually agreeable or alternatively, I can assist you in locating reputable therapy services that align with your budgetary needs. Your well-being is my priority, and I’m committed to helping people access quality therapy services that are both effective and affordable

• Couples and family therapy, also known as marriage and family therapy, is a specialized form of counseling that focuses on improving relationships and resolving conflicts within couples and families. It is based on the understanding that individuals are deeply influenced by their relationships and interactions with others, especially those closest to them.
• Couples and family therapy can help individuals and families navigate through difficult times, improve their relationships, and build stronger bonds. By providing a safe and supportive environment for open communication and problem-solving, therapy can help families develop new skills and perspectives to overcome challenges and create positive change.

During a couples or family therapy session, you can expect a supportive and confidential environment where you and your loved ones can explore your concerns, improve communication, and work towards positive change. Here’s what typically happens during a therapy session:

1. Introductions and Goal Setting: The therapist will start by introducing themselves and explaining the therapy process. They may ask each family member or partner to share their goals for therapy and what they hope to achieve.
2. Exploration of Concerns: The therapist will encourage open discussion about the issues that brought you to therapy. This may involve exploring past experiences, current challenges, and patterns of behavior within the relationship or family dynamic.
3. Communication Skills: The therapist will teach and model effective communication techniques to help you express your thoughts and feelings in a constructive manner. This may include active listening, assertiveness training, and conflict resolution strategies.
4. Identifying Strengths and Resources: The therapist will help you identify the strengths and resources within your relationship or family system that can be leveraged to overcome challenges and achieve your goals.
5. Problem-Solving: Together with the therapist, you’ll work on identifying specific problems or areas of conflict and brainstorming potential solutions. The therapist will facilitate the process and help you evaluate the pros and cons of different approaches.
6. Homework Assignments: Between sessions, the therapist may assign homework exercises or activities to practice the skills learned in therapy and reinforce positive changes.
7. Closure and Next Steps: Towards the end of the session, the therapist will summarize key points discussed and clarify any action steps or goals for the next session. They’ll also address any questions or concerns you may have.

Overall, the goal of couples or family therapy is to foster greater understanding, communication, and connection within the relationship or family unit, leading to improved overall wellbeing and satisfaction. Each session is tailored to meet the unique needs and goals of the individuals involved, and progress is made collaboratively with the therapist’s guidance and support.

Determining whether couples or family therapy is the right choice for you depends on several factors. Here are some signs that therapy might be beneficial:

• Communication breakdown: If you find it challenging to communicate effectively with your partner or family members, therapy can help improve communication skills and resolve misunderstandings.
• Constant conflict: If your relationship or family is characterized by frequent arguments, unresolved conflicts, or tension, therapy can provide a safe space to address underlying issues and find constructive ways to manage disagreements.
• Lack of intimacy: If you and your partner have lost emotional or physical intimacy, therapy can help you reconnect and rebuild closeness.
• Major life transitions: If you’re facing significant life changes such as marriage, parenthood, relocation, or job loss, therapy can provide support and guidance in navigating these transitions together.
• Trust issues: If trust has been broken in your relationship due to infidelity, deception, or other betrayals, therapy can help rebuild trust and work through the underlying issues.
• Parenting challenges: If you’re struggling with parenting conflicts, behavioral issues with children, or blending families, family therapy can provide strategies and support to improve family dynamics.
• Feeling stuck: If you feel stuck in repetitive patterns or unable to resolve recurring issues on your own, therapy can offer fresh perspectives and tools for change.

Book an appointment through this link, call at 857-496-5957 or email me at hello@successandwellbeing.com

• The duration of couples or family therapy can vary depending on several factors, including the nature and severity of the issues being addressed, the goals of therapy, the level of commitment from all parties involved, and the therapeutic approach used by the therapist. Typically, couples or family therapy sessions are scheduled on a weekly or bi-weekly basis and last for about 60 to 90 minutes per session.
• For some couples or families, short-term therapy lasting around 8 to 12 sessions may be sufficient to address specific concerns or achieve targeted goals, such as improving communication or resolving a specific conflict. In contrast, other couples or families may benefit from longer-term therapy lasting several months or even years, especially if they are dealing with complex or deeply rooted issues such as chronic conflict, trauma, or significant relationship distress.
• Ultimately, the duration of therapy is determined collaboratively between the therapist and the clients, based on ongoing assessment of progress and the evolving needs of the individuals or family unit. The therapist will work with you to develop a treatment plan that outlines the anticipated duration of therapy and sets clear goals for your work together. Additionally, therapy is considered complete when the goals set at the beginning of treatment have been achieved, and the clients feel confident in their ability to maintain positive changes independently.

• At the moment, I am offering online therapy exclusively. This means that all sessions are conducted virtually through secure video conferencing platforms. Online therapy provides a convenient and flexible way to access counseling services from the comfort of your own home or any other private location with internet access. While in-person sessions have their advantages, online therapy allows for greater accessibility and eliminates the need for travel, making it a convenient option for many individuals and families. If you have any questions or concerns about online therapy, please don’t hesitate to reach out.
• I plan to offer in person sessions in the future in the Mid-coast area of Maine and possibly Southern Maine

As a licensed mental health counselor with extensive experience in couples and family therapy, I bring a wealth of qualifications and expertise to my practice. Here are some highlights of my qualifications and experience:

1. Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC): I hold a license as a mental health counselor, demonstrating my commitment to adhering to professional standards and ethics in providing therapy services.
2. Certified Group Psychotherapist (CGP): I am certified as a group psychotherapist, which includes specialized training in facilitating group therapy sessions, an approach that can be particularly effective in family therapy settings.
3. Master of Education in Psychology: I have earned a Master of Education degree in Psychology from Springfield College, Massachusetts, with a GPA of 4.00. This academic background provides me with a solid foundation in psychological theory and practice.
4. Professional Development & Training: I regularly engage in professional development activities to stay current with the latest research, techniques, and approaches in couples and family therapy. This includes attending conferences, workshops, and specialized training programs such as the Group Psychotherapy Conference and Non-violent Communication Integration Training.
5. Clinical Experience: Over the course of my career, I have accumulated extensive clinical experience working with individuals, couples, families, and groups in various settings, including outpatient clinics, hospitals, and private practice. This hands-on experience has honed my skills in addressing a wide range of issues related to relationships, communication, and family dynamics.
6. Private Practice: In my private practice, I specialize in providing therapy services to couples and families seeking support in navigating challenges, improving communication, and strengthening their relationships. I offer both in-person and online therapy sessions to accommodate the needs and preferences of my clients.
7. Mentored Family Therapy Experience: Throughout my professional journey, I’ve had the privilege of receiving guidance and mentorship from a seasoned family therapists, enriching my clinical expertise in working with couples and families. Under the mentorship of an experienced practitioner, I’ve gained valuable insights and practical skills in navigating complex family dynamics and addressing relational challenges.

Overall, my qualifications and experience reflect my dedication to helping couples and families achieve greater harmony, resilience, and overall wellbeing in their lives.

I am an out-of-network psychotherapist provider, which means that my services may not be covered by all insurance plans. However, many insurance companies offer out-of-network benefits that may partially reimburse you for therapy sessions.

Here’s what you need to know about using insurance for out-of-network therapy:

1. Verification: Contact your insurance provider to verify your out-of-network mental health benefits. You can ask about coverage for psychotherapy services, including the percentage of the session fee they’ll reimburse and any deductibles or co-pays.
2. Payment: You’ll typically pay the full session fee at the time of your appointment. We’ll provide you with a detailed receipt, often called a superbill, that includes all the information your insurance company needs to process your claim.
3. Reimbursement: After your session, you can submit the superbill to your insurance company for reimbursement. They’ll review the claim and reimburse you directly based on your plan’s out-of-network benefits.
4. Flexibility: Being out-of-network provides flexibility in choosing your therapist and the type of therapy you receive. It also allows for greater privacy, as insurance companies won’t have access to detailed information about your sessions.
5. Coverage Questions: If you have any questions about your insurance coverage or need assistance with the reimbursement process, our administrative team is here to help. We can guide you through the process and provide any necessary documentation.

Please remember that while insurance can help offset the cost of therapy, it’s essential to prioritize finding the right therapist for you and your family’s needs. If you have any concerns about affordability or payment options, please don’t hesitate to discuss them with us. Your well-being is our top priority.

Yes, confidentiality is a cornerstone of therapy, including family therapy. Here’s how we ensure confidentiality in our sessions:

1. Professional Ethics: As licensed therapists, we adhere to strict ethical guidelines that prioritize client confidentiality. This means that everything discussed in therapy sessions, whether individual, couple, or family, is kept confidential.
2. Legal Obligations: We are bound by laws that protect your privacy, such as HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act) in the United States. This legislation ensures that your personal health information remains confidential and is only shared with your explicit consent or in specific legal circumstances.
3. Informed Consent: At the beginning of therapy, we’ll provide you with detailed information about confidentiality, including any limits to confidentiality, such as situations involving harm to yourself or others. You’ll have the opportunity to ask questions and provide informed consent before beginning therapy.
4. Family Dynamics: In family therapy, we recognize the complexities of confidentiality within a family context. We work collaboratively with all family members to establish trust and create a safe space for open communication. Each family member’s perspective is valued and respected, and confidentiality applies to everyone equally.
5. Exceptions to Confidentiality: While confidentiality is upheld in most circumstances, there are legal and ethical exceptions where we may be required to disclose information. These exceptions typically involve situations where there is imminent risk of harm to yourself or others, suspected child abuse or neglect, or a court order mandating disclosure.
6. Open Communication: We encourage open communication about confidentiality concerns. If you have any questions or concerns about privacy or confidentiality, please feel free to discuss them with us. Your comfort and trust are essential to the therapeutic process, and we are committed to maintaining confidentiality to the fullest extent possible.

It’s not uncommon for one family member or partner to be hesitant about therapy. Here’s how we approach this situation:

1. Understanding Concerns: We acknowledge and validate any concerns or reservations expressed by the hesitant family member or partner. It’s essential to create a non-judgmental space where they feel comfortable expressing their thoughts and feelings about therapy.
2. Exploring Benefits: We take the time to discuss the potential benefits of therapy and how it can positively impact the entire family or relationship. This may include improved communication, conflict resolution skills, strengthened relationships, and greater emotional well-being.
3. Addressing Misconceptions: We address any misconceptions or fears the hesitant individual may have about therapy. This may involve debunking common myths, providing information about the therapy process, and explaining our approach to therapy in a clear and transparent manner.
4. Offering Support: We offer support and reassurance to the hesitant family member or partner, emphasizing that therapy is a collaborative process where they have control over their participation. We encourage them to voice any concerns or preferences they may have regarding the therapy process.
5. Flexibility: We are flexible in our approach to therapy, recognizing that different individuals have unique needs and preferences. We may suggest alternative options, such as individual therapy or initial sessions focused on addressing the hesitant individual’s concerns before transitioning to couples or family therapy.
6. Patience and Empathy: We approach the hesitant individual with patience, empathy, and understanding. We recognize that it may take time for them to feel comfortable with the idea of therapy, and we are committed to supporting them throughout this process.
7. Encouraging Open Communication: We encourage open communication between all family members or partners, fostering a supportive environment where everyone’s voice is heard and respected. This may involve setting aside time for family discussions or addressing concerns in individual sessions.

Ultimately, our goal is to create a safe and supportive space where all family members or partners feel comfortable participating in therapy and working towards positive change. We respect each individual’s autonomy and collaborate with them to address their concerns and make informed decisions about their involvement in therapy

Medication can be effective but it alone cannot solve all issues. Sometimes medication is needed in conjunction with counseling. Our work together is designed to explore and unpack the problems you are experiencing and expand on your strengths that can help you accomplish your personal goals.

Your active participation and dedication will be crucial to your success. Willingness to be open to new ideas as well as communicating any difficulties that arise in considering new possibilities.

We look forward to be your partners in your journey toward wellness and happiness.I am so glad you are dedicated to getting the most out of your sessions. Your active participation and dedication will be crucial to your success.

We look forward to be your partners in your journey toward wellness and happiness.