Questions & Answers

Frequently Asked Questions

Below are answers to some of the questions I'm asked most often. If you don't see what you're looking for, please don't hesitate to reach out.

About Therapy
What can I expect during my first therapy session?
The first session is an opportunity for us to get to know each other and begin understanding what brought you to therapy. We will talk about what you are currently experiencing, what you would like support with, and what you hope to get out of therapy. It is also a time for you to ask questions and get a feel for whether I am the right therapist for you. There is no expectation that you have everything figured out before coming in. We will work through it together.
How do I know if therapy is right for me?
You do not have to be in crisis or have everything figured out to start therapy. Sometimes you may simply feel stuck, overwhelmed, disconnected, or know that something in your life is not working the way you would like it to. Therapy can be a space to better understand yourself, work through difficult experiences, and develop tools to help you move forward. If you are wondering whether therapy may be helpful for you, I am always happy to talk with you about what you are experiencing and see if we may be a good fit. I offer free 15 minute consultations — just click the Schedule button on the home page or click here.
How often will we meet?
This depends on what is right for you. Everyone's experience is different, and therapy is not a one-size-fits-all process. We will always discuss this as we move forward in our sessions and adjust as needed based on your goals, needs, and progress.
How long does therapy typically last?
Therapy sessions are typically between 50–60 minutes.
Do you give homework or exercises between sessions?
This is something we would discuss in our sessions together. If there are exercises, skills, or practices that may be helpful between sessions, we can explore those together. If you are ever uncomfortable with something, we won't use it. I will always incorporate what fits best for you, your comfort level, and your goals.
Your Approach
What is your approach to therapy?
My approach is person-centered, which means I believe you should feel heard, understood, and accepted for who you are. I don't believe therapy should be a one-size-fits-all experience, and I won't try to fit you into a specific approach just because that is what I typically do. Instead, we will work together to understand what you need and what feels most helpful for you. I draw from different therapeutic approaches and interventions when they fit your goals, but ultimately, you know yourself best. My role is to provide a safe, supportive space where we can work through what you have experienced, better understand yourself, and find ways to move forward that feel right for you.
Do you work with trauma?
I do. I believe no trauma is too big to heal. Trauma can affect the way we see ourselves, our relationships, and the world around us. My goal is to create a safe and supportive space where we can work through these experiences at a pace that feels right for you. You do not have to go through it alone.
How do you help with anxiety and emotional overwhelm?
There are a variety of interventions and modalities I may use to help with anxiety and emotional overwhelm, but it is always based on what you respond to best. This may include mindfulness, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), grounding techniques, emotional regulation skills, and other approaches. We will work together to find what feels most helpful for you rather than forcing one specific approach.
What does trauma-informed therapy mean?
Trauma-informed therapy means understanding that your experiences can impact the way you think, feel, connect with others, and respond to the world around you. It means creating a space where you feel safe, respected, and heard without judgment. We will move at a pace that feels comfortable for you, and you will always have a voice in the process. You are not required to share or work through anything before you are ready.
Equine Therapy
What is equine-facilitated psychotherapy?
Equine-facilitated psychotherapy incorporates interactions with horses into the therapeutic process. Rather than only talking about what you are experiencing, we can use the interactions and experiences with the horses to explore things like emotions, communication, boundaries, trust, relationships, and connection. The horses can provide opportunities to notice patterns and experiences in a different way, while we process those experiences together.
Do I need to have experience with horses?
Not at all. You do not need any previous experience with horses or even feel comfortable around them to participate in equine-facilitated psychotherapy. We will go at your pace and you will never be pressured to interact with a horse in a way that feels uncomfortable to you.
Do I ride the horses?
This is non-mounted, meaning you do not ride the horses, but you get plenty of opportunities to interact with them. We may play games, paint, spend time with the horses, and participate in other activities. The goal is not about riding or horsemanship. It is about using these experiences as part of the therapeutic process.
Who is equine therapy appropriate for?
Equine therapy can be helpful for many different people and concerns. It can be especially meaningful for those who have experienced trauma, struggle with connection or trust, feel disconnected from themselves or others, or find that traditional talk therapy does not always feel like the right fit. You do not have to be a "horse person" to benefit from this type of therapy. We will explore together whether it feels like a good fit for you and your goals.
Where does equine therapy take place?
Equine-facilitated psychotherapy is hosted by Life Reins, Inc. and has multiple locations across central Florida, including Volusia County, Lake County, and Orange County. I will provide you with the information you need before your first session, including directions and what to expect when you arrive.
Practical
Do you offer in-person and online therapy?
Yes. I offer both in-person and online therapy, so we can discuss which option feels like the best fit for you and your needs.
Who do you work with?
I work with individuals, adolescents (ages 13+) and adults.
Where are you located?
My office is with Vievar Behavioral Health in Altamonte Springs, Florida.
Address: 465 Maitland Ave, Altamonte Springs, FL 32701
Do you accept insurance?
Yes. I am in-network with Cigna, Aetna, Cigna EAP, Aetna EAP, and BCBS. Insurance coverage can vary depending on your specific plan, so I recommend checking with your insurance provider regarding your individual benefits.
What does therapy cost?
If you do not have insurance or your insurance plan is not in-network, self-pay sessions are available for $110. I also offer a limited number of sliding-scale appointments, with reduced session fees based on financial need and availability. If cost is a barrier to accessing therapy, please don't hesitate to reach out. We can discuss your options and determine whether a reduced fee may be available.
How do I schedule a consultation?
You can click the Get In Touch button on the home page or click here. You can also click the Schedule button on the homepage to schedule a consultation, or click here. Either way, I will be notified of your request. The Get In Touch button connects to a secure email. You can also reach me by phone — you can call or text me at 407-349-3050.
What is your cancellation policy?
I understand that life happens, and sometimes you may need to cancel or reschedule an appointment. I want to provide as much flexibility as possible while also protecting the time that has been set aside specifically for you.

If you need to cancel or reschedule, I ask that you provide at least 24 hours' notice whenever possible.

Your first missed or late-cancelled appointment will be at no charge. A second missed or late-cancelled appointment will have a $50 fee, and any subsequent missed or late-cancelled appointments will be charged at the full session fee.

I understand that unexpected circumstances can come up. If an emergency or situation outside of your control prevents you from giving 24 hours' notice, please reach out as soon as you are able. We can talk through what happened and determine the best way to move forward.