Why should I go to counseling?

There are a variety of reason a person may seek counseling. It can range from needing help with managing major life stressors; to finding ways to stop destructive behaviors; to needing a place to sort through some challenging thoughts. If you are struggling with trying to find solutions in your life I can help you explore key changes for a brighter future.

I have never been in therapy. What should I expect?

Every person’s needs are different. Therefore, I try to develop a treatment plan that meets your specific needs. Rather it’s through the traditional talk therapy, use of EMDR to alleviate distress from past trauma, assigning therapeutic homework that you can practice between sessions. This is a place where you can open up and discuss issues that you could not with others.

How long will I have to keep going to therapy?

There is no definite amount of time that I can tell you. Many patients start to experience significant symptom relief after 6 to 8 sessions. But because every treatment is individualized the length of your work will be dependent on how severe your issues are and how much work you are willing to put into making any necessary changes for you. What I can tell you is that I will help guide you to ways you can get the most of your sessions in order to positively make changes that will not just help get you through today. I prefer to look at the bigger picture. Therefore the type of work I do is to focus on the underlying issues that contribute to your current and past struggles. We look at the source and identify ways to resolve conflicting thoughts and behaviors and gain skills that you can use in all aspects of your life for more long-term changes.

What if my family is also struggling?

I cannot provide both services to one family. During your initial session we can determine which service is right for you and your family. If you decide that you need both services, I can refer you to another provider who can provide either individual or family therapy.

Will I have to take medication?

Not necessarily. It varies on a case-by-case basis. Some people want to take medication right away while others refuse to take anything unless they are in absolute crisis. We can discuss the best course of treatment. While I cannot prescribe medication I can work as a team with your psychiatrist or physician to determine if medication is an option for you.

What if my family asks to speak to you?

Our work is strictly confidential. I would only speak to anyone outside the office with your written permission. If you need me to discuss your treatment with anyone I would require you to complete a release of information detailing specific treatment information you would want to disclose. Otherwise, I could not even confirm nor deny that you I am your therapist.

What are your fees?

A 50 min session is $175. Longer sessions are prorated based on the fee for a 50-minute session. Telephone contact will be billed at the same rate as psychotherapy for calls longer than 10 minutes.
Payment is due at the time of the service. You can pay with cash, check, or credit card. A $25 fee will be charged for a returned check.

Do you take insurance?

Jessie Beliard is not a participating provider in any insurance program. I can provide a Super Bill at the time of service to submit directly to your insurance company for full or partial reimbursement. Ask your provider if they cover “out of network” services. Keep in mind that reimbursement may not be guaranteed by your health insurance. Check your coverage carefully by asking the following questions:
Do I have mental health benefits?
What is my deductible and has it been met?
How many sessions per calendar year does my plan cover?
How much does my plan cover for an out-of-network provider?
What is the coverage amount per therapy session?
Is approval required from my primary care physician?

What is your cancellation policy?

Please cancel 24 hours before your appointment. Otherwise, you will be charged the full cost of the session.
The reason for this policy is that the appointment time is being held specifically for you. If you provide less than 24 hours’ notice, I cannot offer that slot to someone else.

I’m ready to start counseling. What should I do now?

Reach out directly through our Contact page. Looking forward to hearing from you.