Why would I even want to come to therapy? 
Some people believe if someone is going to therapy, they must be crazy. This is not true. Sometimes, we need or want that other person to be our sounding board. Sometimes, we want feedback that our friends and family do not know how to give. Additionally, therapy can have a cathartic effect on those who truly desire a different perspective of their experiences. My job is to provide that perspective for you and empower you toward self-efficacy. Sometimes, we don't know something is bothering us or is a problem in our lives without that objective third-person point-of-view. Think of therapy as an investment in your mental health, like preventative mental health care. Therapy can be helpful in a preventative sense, as well as, in a crisis situation. 

What is the difference between a licensed clinical/forensic psychologist and any other therapist? 

My degree is in clinical psychology, which covers a broad range of mental health issues. I chose to emphasize in forensics, to better understand the intersection between psychology and the law. Ultimately, clinicians with doctoral degrees undergo rigorous training and they have advanced practice utilizing various assessment measures and therapeutic interventions, which yield positive outcomes for the client. Most doctoral-level clinicians gained at least 2-4 years of additional experience and training in the proper application of evidence-based treatment. My training also afforded me the ability to understand research concepts that inform both treatment and psychological evaluations. By attending approximately six (6) years of higher education, I was trained to critically review research related to various testing measures, and utilize the ones that are evidence-based for the client.

What types of clients do you see for therapy?
I see anyone who wants or needs a different perspective in their life, and who wants to heal any scars they may still carry. Some of my clients come to therapy to have someone hold them accountable, until they can advocate for themselves. Examples of clients I see include:  adolescents and adults through the lifespan who have depression, anxiety, grief, suicidal thoughts and behaviors, and other professionals who desire added perspective related to their ethical obligations, job duties, or work-life balance.

Do you accept insurance? 
Unfortunately, I do not accept insurance at this time. 

How much will therapy cost me? 
The cost for therapy will depend on what type of therapy you need, based on the different issues you want to address. With that said, the total cost is difficult to predict. Generally, a 45-60 minute session is $175. Couples and families are $225. 

Do you have a sliding scale?
Not at this time. However, if in the process of treatment you fall upon financial hardship, we can discuss other arrangements. Sometimes, this means moving from weekly therapy sessions to bi-weekly sessions. ​​

What is a forensic evaluation?
Forensic evaluations are mental health evaluations ordered by the court. Typically, these reports include things like: risk for future violence or sexual re-offense, psychopathy assessments, or civil matters, like guardianship or custody. Presently, due to my state employment, which is a conflict of interest, I cannot provide therapeutic or evaluation services to those who are convicted of sexual offenses and are currently under the supervision of the Utah Department of Corrections Adult Probation and Parole. Additionally, anyone currently undergoing investigations for sexual offenses fall into this category of a conflict of interest. Please refer to corrections.utah.gov and look under "Resources for Sex Offenders," to find a list of approved providers for such services. 

How much do evaluations cost and what is involved? 
Mental health or clinical evaluations typically involve an in-depth clinical interview between me and the client. A review of records including mental health history, legal history, medical history, child protective services and educational history, among other possible sources, will be conducted. Additionally, if collateral interviews would be beneficial, and if the client allows it, the client would fill out a Release of Information form to allow me to conduct interviews with their loved ones, supervisors, friends, or attorneys. Depending on the evaluation, various gold-standard psychological tests will be utilized, that will directly answer the referral questions. A final report will be written and provided to the referral sources (client, court, attorneys, or other such referral sources). Clinical evaluations (personality and cognitive) are $2,500, a comprehensive clinical evaluation (includes additional testing for clinical purposes) is $3,000, and forensic evaluations are $3,500. 

How long does it take to complete the testing process?
This depends on the intensity or comprehensiveness of the referral question (a personality evaluation would take less time than a forensic evaluation). However, most evaluations take between 4 to 12 face-to-face hours. 

Do you have a payment plan option? 
No. All fees, therapy and evaluation, are to be paid in-full at the time of service. I accept credit/debit, HSA accounts, or Bishop's pay, if applicable. 

When will I know the results of my testing?
I guarantee a completed report within 10 to 20 business days, excluding holidays, from the time I have all available records requested. It is important you provide a complete set of records, regardless of the evaluation type, to ensure efficient completion of your report. For example, if you are coming in for a cognitive evaluation to determine level of functioning, I will likely need medical records and school records to help build a historical timeline of your functioning throughout development. Without timely receipt of records, I cannot guarantee the timeliness of the report and the diagnosis may be incomplete. With most evaluations, a feedback session will be provided at no extra cost; the exception would be if the court ordered the evaluation. In some of those circumstances, feedback is not offered. You will be notified at the outset of the evaluation what to expect from the process. 

Do you do free consultations? 
Yes! You can call for a free 15-minute phone consultation to see if I would be a good fit for the services you need or want.