healing begins with you

People come into therapy for many reasons. Some need to respond to unexpected changes in their lives, while others seek self-exploration and personal growth. When coping skills are overwhelmed by guilt, doubt, anxiety, or despair, therapy can help. Therapy can provide support, problem-solving skills, and enhanced coping for issues such as depression, anxiety, lack of confidence, relationship troubles, unresolved childhood issues, bereavement, stress management, body image issues, identity issues and creative blocks. People seeking psychotherapy are willing to take responsibility for their actions, work towards self-change and create greater awareness in their lives. Therapy is a private and personal endeavor. The process is done at your pace and with your goals in mind. Comfort and honesty are first and foremost and the goal is to provide you with a place you can feel safe enough to tackle life's challenging hurdles.

The first session with your therapist will be different from future visits. The initial visit is a period for you and your therapist to get to know each other. You will discuss what brings you to therapy and get an idea of your hopes and goals. Future visits will be more therapeutic in nature. Keep in mind that psychotherapy usually requires multiple visits, which will be discussed between you and your therapist. You will also have an opportunity to ask any questions.

During sessions you will talk about the primary concerns and issues in your life. A session lasts 50 minutes and usually weekly sessions are best. Some people who are in crisis or extreme distress need more than one session per week, at least until the crisis passes. During the time between sessions it is beneficial to think about and process what was discussed. At times, you may be asked to take certain actions outside of the therapy sessions, such as reading a relevant book or keeping records. For therapy to "work," you must be an active participant, both in and outside of the therapy sessions.

In general, the law protects the confidentiality of all communications between a client and a psychotherapist. Information is not disclosed without written permission. However, there are few exceptions to this rule. Exceptions include: Suspected child abuse or dependant adult or elder abuse. The therapist is required by law to report this to the appropriate authorities immediately. If a client is threatening serious bodily harm to another person(s). The therapist must notify the police and inform the intended victim. If a client intends to harm himself or herself. The therapist will make every effort to enlist their cooperation in ensuring their safety. If they do not cooperate, further measures may be taken without their permission in order to ensure their safety.

Michelle is not in network with any insurance companies, but depending on your plan, you may be able to submit a Superbill (provided by Milwaukee Therapy) to your insurance company to petition for out-of-network reimbursement. This means, all sessions are out-of-pocket or "self-pay." You can also use your HSA, HRA or FSA account for payment. Deidre & Karen are in network with many insurance companies and accept self-pay as well. You can find out more information about specific plans and eligibility by contacting them individually. Please note that it is always the client's responsibility to pay the full agreed upon fee for services at the time they are rendered, regardless of their insurance arrangements.

Insurance companies pay for healthcare services only, and therefore we would have to diagnose you with a mental health disorder and share the diagnosis with your insurance company. Depending on your coverage, the insurance company may limit the number of sessions and require us to submit ongoing progress reports and treatment plans to justify the services we provide you. There are several advantages to paying out of pocket. The main advantage is that counseling decisions are made between you and your clinician and not by the insurance company. This means your counseling is tailored specifically to your needs...we decide sessions, time, goals, frequency, fees and termination.

Michelle accepts HSA, HRA, FSA and if your insurance plan accepts out-of-network mental health providers, you may be reimbursed for a portion of your cost. Otherwise the self-pay schedule is as follows: Individual Therapy: $120 per 50 minute session Couples/Relationship Therapy: $150 per 60 minute session Deidre & Karen's costs are varied. Please contact them individually for more information.

Due to the time commitment made to you, you must provide 24 hours notice if you need to cancel your appointment or reschedule to avoid charges for missed sessions. Voicemail or e-mail can be utilized 24 hours a day in the event that an appointment needs to be rescheduled. Full payment is required for late cancellations or no-shows.