FAQs
What is play therapy?
Play can be incredibly powerful. It can teach children how to understand and express thoughts and feelings, learn to solve problems, and modify their behavior. Through the power of play, I use games, art, sandtrays, and other toys to create a safe place for children to learn new skills, manage their emotions, and develop resiliency. For more information on play therapy and the power of play, please visit the Association of Play Therapy website.
Do you accept insurance?
I am an approved provider for Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas and United HealthCare. I also accept United HealthCare Medicaid.
What is a Good Faith Estimate?
Effectve January 1, 2022, a new federal law called the No Surprises Act provides clients the right to receive a Good Faith Estimate, which shows the expenses you can reasonably expect to pay for services. It does not include unknown or unexpected costs that sometimes arise during services, such as additional sessions, parent meetings, or school meetings. A Good Faith Estimate is generally intended for clients whose insurance is out-of-network or who self-pay, but all clients have the right to receive a Good Faith Estimate. For more detailed information, please see this PDF.
When and how do I pay you for the session?
Payment is due at the time of the session. I accept cash, check, and credit cards, including Health Savings Account (HSA) cards. I can also accept payment using Zelle® or Venmo. Please see the Payments Policy page for specific information regarding payments.
How should I prepare my child for the first appointment?
Many parents are unsure of what to say to their child prior to the first appointment. For many children, knowing what to expect can lessen the anxiety when the appointment arrives. Although the details you share will depend on the age of the child, it is important to tell them who they will be seeing and why. It is important for them to know that this is a safe place where I can help them solve the problem of (feeling nervous when they go to bed, feeling angry at their sister, their family is changing, etc.) Explain that they may play games or play with toys that will help them feel better. Whatever the challenge, it is important to use language that your child will understand.
What can I expect at my first appointment?
The first appointment is an assessment and the beginning of the therapeutic relationship. This will be an opportunity for me to get know you and your child and begin to build a trusting relationship, which is the foundation for successful healing. I will meet with your child alone for the first part of the session. For the remaining fifteen to twenty minutes, you (the parents) will join us. This time will be used to discuss the therapeutic process and what to expect as sessions continue.
Do you only use play therapy?
No, I use a variety of approaches based on what works best for the child/client. Although I do believe that play therapy is one of the most successful methods to use with children, and this is my primary approach, I also include more directive activities to address specific concerns and issues. I also incorporate Expressive Therapies, such as art, music or drama, as well as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) interventions and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT.)
Do you only see children?
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I am trained to work with all ages of clients and address a variety of needs. I currently work with clients from ages 4 through adulthood.
Do you have to give my child a diagnosis?
Insurance providers require a diagnosis in order for services to be reimbursed. Therefore, I will be required to provide a diagnosis. I will discuss this with you in depth so you know what to expect.
What are your hours?
I work Sunday through Thursday by appointment. Weekend and after-school hours are the most popular and can be harder to get. If you live near the office and have some flexibility, please consider a before-school appointment for more availability.