Do I need to know my diagnosis before starting therapy?
No. You do not need to arrive knowing whether what you are experiencing is anxiety, trauma, ADHD, depression, burnout, grief, or something else. We can begin with what you are noticing, what has become difficult, and what you would like to understand or change.
What happens during the first session?
The first session is an opportunity for us to begin understanding what brings you to therapy, what has been happening in your life, and what you hope will be different. We may discuss your history, current concerns, strengths, coping patterns, and goals while beginning to determine what approach to treatment may be most appropriate.
What are sessions like?
My style is warm, collaborative, practical, and grounded in evidence-informed care. Depending on your needs, sessions may include reflection, psychoeducation, identifying patterns, skill building, processing difficult experiences, practicing new responses, and finding ways to translate insight into everyday life.
Is therapy offered in person or online?
Wayside Mental Health is a virtual practice. Telehealth psychotherapy is currently available to adults who are physically located in Georgia or Pennsylvania at the time of their session.
What concerns do you work with?
I work with adults experiencing concerns including trauma and PTSD, anxiety, depression and mood concerns, ADHD, alcohol and substance use, grief and loss, stress and burnout, life transitions, self-esteem and identity concerns, and relationship or family difficulties. Concerns often overlap, so treatment is individualized rather than organized around a single diagnosis.
Do you accept insurance?
Insurance-based appointments are available through Grow Therapy and Brightside Health, with participation depending on the specific plan and platform. Because benefits vary, you can review your coverage and expected costs directly through the platform when booking.
Is private-pay therapy available?
Yes. Private-pay telehealth appointments are available directly through Wayside Mental Health. The direct-booking option is available on the website alongside the Grow Therapy and Brightside Health options.
How do I know which booking option to choose?
If you plan to use insurance, Grow Therapy or Brightside Health can show the coverage options available through their platforms. If you prefer to work directly with Wayside without using one of those platforms, choose the private-pay option.
What if I don't see an appointment that works for me?
You may join the Wayside waitlist and provide your general availability. If an appropriate opening becomes available, I will reach out to discuss next steps. Joining the waitlist does not guarantee an appointment or establish a therapist-client relationship.
Is therapy confidential?
Yes. Wayside Mental Health follows HIPAA privacy and security requirements and takes appropriate measures to protect your personal and health information. Therapy is generally confidential, with specific legal and ethical exceptions that will be reviewed as part of informed consent. Because sessions are conducted by telehealth, you are also encouraged to join from a private location where you feel comfortable speaking openly.
Is Wayside appropriate for emergencies or crisis care?
No. Wayside Mental Health does not provide emergency or crisis-response services. If you are experiencing an immediate or life-threatening emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department. You can also call or text 988 for the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.