Investment & FAQs
Healing is an investment — not just of time or money, but of courage, energy, and trust. Choosing therapy means choosing to show up for yourself, your relationships, and your growth in ways that ripple far beyond the therapy room. Whether this is your first time looking for a therapist or you're transitioning your care, my goal is to make that big step as clear as possible.
At Unbound Phoenix Therapy I have advanced training in relational and trauma therapy for individuals, couples and families of all ages throughout Virginia.
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I specialize in working with polyamorous, kinky, fat, neurodiverse, and LGBTQIA+ populations.
Financial Investement
I have partnered with Mentaya to help clients use their out-of-network benefits to save money on therapy. Use this tool below to see if you qualify for reimbursement for my services.
Getting Started & What to Expect
1. What can I expect in our first session?
Our first meeting is a mix of conversation and curiosity. We’ll explore what brought you in, what’s been hard lately, and what you hope will feel different. You don’t have to have perfect words — we’ll figure it out together.
2. How do I know if we’re a good fit?
The therapeutic relationship is the foundation of meaningful work. If after a few sessions it doesn’t feel like the right fit, I’ll support you in finding a therapist who matches your style and needs. (No awkward ghosting required.)
3. How often will we meet?
Most clients start with weekly sessions to build momentum, then move to biweekly or monthly as healing and stability increase. We’ll decide together based on your goals and life flow.
4. Do you offer virtual or in-person sessions?
I offer both! In-person sessions take place at my office in Sterling, VA, and virtual sessions are available to clients located anywhere in Virginia. Many people choose a blend of both, depending on their schedule or energy.
5. How do I schedule or change an appointment?
You can easily schedule, reschedule, or cancel through your secure client portal. I also send automated reminders to help you keep track.
Therapy Process and Approach
6. What types of therapy do you use?
I integrate trauma-informed and relational modalities such as EMDR, Emotionally Focused Therapy, IFS therapy, expressive arts, and sandtray all with an attachment focus — always tailored to your pace and personality. In short: no cookie-cutter therapy here.
7. Do you work with children, teens, and adults?
Yes. I work across the lifespan — from kids learning to understand their “big feelings” to adults navigating trauma, identity, and relationships. Therapy looks different at each stage, but the core goal is the same: helping you feel more whole, connected, and unbound.
8. What if I don’t know what I need?
That’s okay — most people don’t! You don’t need to come in with a plan or diagnosis. We’ll explore what’s happening in your world and build clarity together.
9. How long does therapy usually take?
There’s no set timeline. Some clients come for short-term focused work, while others stay longer for deep integration and ongoing growth. We’ll regularly check in to make sure therapy is serving you well.
10. What happens if I get overwhelmed in a session?
You’re always in control. We’ll pace the work so it feels safe and manageable. If you ever feel flooded or need to pause, we’ll ground together before continuing. Healing should never feel like re-traumatization.
Boundaries, Privacy and Safety
11. Is therapy confidential?
Yes — everything we discuss stays between us, with a few legal exceptions for safety (like if someone is in danger). We’ll go over those specifics in your intake paperwork so there are no surprises.
12. What if I see you in public?
Your privacy matters most. I’ll follow your lead — I won’t initiate a hello unless you do. You’re free to wave, nod, or pretend we’ve never met (no offense taken!).
13. Can I text or email you between sessions?
For logistical things like scheduling or portal questions, yes. For therapeutic content, we’ll keep that within sessions so it stays grounded and supported.
Financial Investment
14. Do you accept insurance?
I’m an out-of-network provider, meaning I don’t bill insurance directly. Many clients receive reimbursement through their out-of-network benefits, and Mentaya can make that process effortless.
15. How does payment work?
Payment is collected at the time of each session via secure credit, debit, or HSA/FSA card on file. Mentaya or your client portal will provide receipts and documentation for reimbursement if needed.
16. What if I need to cancel or reschedule?
Life happens! I ask for at least 48 hours’ notice for cancellations or reschedules to avoid a full session fee. This allows me to offer that time to someone else who may need it.
17. What’s included in your session rate?
Your investment covers more than just our time together. It includes my preparation, case conceptualization, professional training, ongoing consultation, and the behind-the-scenes work that helps keep our sessions focused, safe, and effective.
18. Do you offer longer or intensive sessions?
Yes. For those wanting to dive deeper into EMDR, parts work, or relational healing, I offer 90-minute sessions at $335. These allow for more space and integration within a single meeting.
19. Can I use my HSA or FSA card?
Yes — therapy is an eligible medical expense under most HSA and FSA plans.
20. Do you offer reduced rates?
Yes. Educators, military personnel, and first responders receive a community-support rate. A small number of sliding-scale appointments are also available based on need.
Special Topics
21. Do you work with LGBTQ+, neurodivergent, or nontraditional relationships?
Absolutely. As a queer, neurodiversity-affirming, kink allied therapist, I create space for all identities and relationship structures, including ENM, polyamory, and chosen families. Therapy here is a judgment-free zone — you get to show up as your full self.
22. Do you offer therapy for therapists or helping professionals?
Yes. I love working with therapists, healers, and caregivers who need space to process their own experiences while still holding others. (Because being the helper doesn’t mean you don’t need help, too.)
23. What if I’ve had bad experiences in therapy before?
Then you’re not alone — and you’re welcome here. We’ll go slowly, name what didn’t feel safe before, and rebuild trust at a pace that honors your nervous system and your story.
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24. Will you tell me what happens in my child’s therapy session?
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No, not without your child's permission. It is essential that your child knows that what is shared in the session is private. It must be their decision as to what they choose to share with you. However, rest assured that collaboration between the therapist and the caregivers are necessary for the attachment-based work that I practice. We decide together what that should look like and it can look a variety of different ways. In the event of a safety concern, we will always attempt to schedule an additional session that same day to tell you immediately, even if they aren’t quite ready to tell you themselves. Safety is of the utmost importance.
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