Not at all. People who ask for help know when they need it and have the courage to reach out. Everyone needs help now and then. In our work together, I’ll help you explore and identify your strengths and how to implement them to reduce the influence of the problems you are facing.

Medication can be effective but it alone cannot solve all issues. Sometimes medication is needed in conjunction with counseling. Our work together is designed to explore and unpack the problems you are experiencing and expand on your strengths that can help you accomplish your personal goals.

At this time I am not able to see clients with Tricare. at the beginning of 2022 when I started Riverbend Therapeutics, they were not able to get my information corrected. Because our TriWest area is not accepting new contracts, I am not able to credential under my new business name.

Because each person has different issues and goals for counseling, it will be different depending on the individual. I tailor my therapeutic approach to your specific needs.

The difference is between someone who can do something, and someone who has the training and experience to do that same thing professionally. A mental health professional can help you approach your situation in a new way– teach you new skills, gain different perspectives, listen to you without judgment or expectations, and help you listen to yourself. Furthermore, counseling is completely confidential. You won’t have to worry about others “knowing my business.” Lastly, if your situation provokes a great deal of negative emotion, and you’ve been confiding in a friend or family member, there is the risk that once you are feeling better you could start avoiding that person so you aren’t reminded of this difficult time in your life.

I use a program called SimplePractice. It is very user friendly, and I have been able to help clients navigate the difficulties with connecting. Sometimes the first session can be uncomfortable, but this has proven to always be short lived. Teletherapy has been just as successful as face to face sessions, and even more comfortable for some clients.

At this time I do not see clients outside the state of Montana. I am not licensed in other states, so it gets complicated when my clients are outside the state. When you complete the intake paperwork you vouch that you will be located in the state when we have our session. If you are a previous client and will be in a different location for a short period of time, it is possible that that state would allow me to see you, but this is a state by state and case by case basis.

Unfortunately, this is not possible to say in a general FAQs page. Everyone’s circumstances are unique to them and the length of time counseling can take to allow you to accomplish your goals depends on your desire for personal development, your commitment, and the factors that are driving you to seek counseling in the first place.

We are so glad you are dedicated to getting the most out of your sessions. Your active participation and dedication will be crucial to your success.

They are two names typically used synonymously for the same set of symptoms connected to a rise in stress. However clinically there are typically some noteable differences. See this article on MedicalNewsToday for a breakdown of those differences.

The only way to know for sure is to come in for a session. Most people have a good sense of whether I am the right professional to help them within the first two sessions. There is no obligation to working with me. If you have a feeling that we are not the best fit, I will gladly help you find a therapist that may be a better fit.

Although there are many advantages of online counseling (it’s convenient, effective, you get to be present in a space that you already feel safe in), it’s not right for everyone. Online counseling (teletherapy) works best for those with mild to moderate symptoms (not people who are suicidal or in crisis), are comfortable using technology, and have a quiet, private place to have their sessions.

I provide counseling for adults, teens and older children who reside in Montana. My expertise is in anxiety and stress, life transitions, self-worth, women’s health concerns, autism spectrum disorder, and infertility. I don’t provide counseling for couples.

The initial session is the time for you to start to share your story, talk about your goals and what you would like to change. Another important aspect of the first session is deciding if we are a good fit. Do I seem like someone you can trust? We are establishing a relationship that will become the foundation for working together. You will begin to figure out some goals; I will begin to figure out how to help you get there.

Appointments are approximately 1 hour. This is the standard length of a counseling session. Sometimes sessions can be shorter when there is a need for more space between sessions.

I require 24 hours notice of cancellation or there may be a $50 Late Cancel/ No Show Fee. An occasional exception may be made in the case of an emergency or illness. It’s important that we meet consistently in order to make progress. If you Late Cancel or No Show 3 appointments, I will try with every effort to better support your schedule, and we will have a conversation about referring you to a therapist that can better suit your counseling scheduling conflicts.

I pull from a variety of theories and techniques. I find Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Client-Centered Therapy, and Mindfulness techniques are often helpful for my clients.

No, I am not a medical doctor. Many of my patients find medication is helpful, but many of them also progress well in therapy without medication. If you want to be evaluated for psychiatric medication, either contact your primary care physician or a psychiatrist. If you are already taking medication, I can coordinate care with your doctor.