Frequently Asked Questions

About Little Lamp & Counseling Style

Do I have to be a Christian to seek counseling from Little Lamp?

• No. All are welcome at this practice.

If I'm not Christian, will I have to read the Bible in my sessions?

• No. Christian, or Faith-Based counseling is a modality, same as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy or Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. If you do not want Christian counseling, then I will not administer Christian counseling to you, but will instead utilize one of the many other modalities that are available.
• Even if you are Christian, you can still choose not to have Christian counseling. That choice is up to you. All you need to do is tell me that you don't want Christian counseling in your intake form under the question "Do you want Faith-based counseling?"

If Christian counseling is not mandatory, why is it in the company name?

• The word "Christian" in the company name is not meant to be a deterrent for non-Christians to stay away, but rather a beacon for Christians who are seeking counseling that will look at their situation from a Biblical worldview. Often people prefer to work with counselors who have traits in common with them, such as same race, gender, or religion. Most counselor directories have search filters for race, gender, and sexuality, but lack a religion option. For Christian clients that want Christian counseling, I have made it easier to find me by putting it right there in the title. But I am trained and licensed by the state, so the counsel I provide is always evidence-based scientific research, and I can add to that a Christian worldview, if desired.

Can I switch to/from Christian counseling later?

• Yes. Some clients start with secular counseling and later add a faith element, or the opposite. You’re not locked into one style.

Can I request a different modality be used?

• Yes. If at any point you feel the counseling is not working, tell me and we can make changes where needed. If you feel nothing I do is helping you, then we can start the process of transferring your case to a different counselor.

What is the main difference(s) between secular and Christian counseling?

• The main difference is the worldview we use when looking at your situation. In Christian counseling, we approach issues through a Biblical lens. Most evidence-based practices still apply, and in many areas, science and Scripture align. When differences arise, we look at what the Bible says about that topic. Christian sessions may include prayer, Scripture reading, or faith-based homework. You’re welcome to invite the Holy Spirit into the session, or we can keep things completely clinical. There is no set agenda; if you want it, we’ll include it; if not, we won’t. The choice is yours.

Do you pray with clients?

• Only if the client requests it.

Billing & Payment

What is the cost per session?

• My current private-pay rate is between $60 and $100 per session. Rates may be adjusted with advance notice.

Can clients use an HSA or FSA card with you?

• Yes. Counseling is an eligible medical expense.

Do you take insurance?

• No, I am a private-pay practice. See the "Services & Fees" page for more information. I can provide a “Superbill” if your insurance company offers out-of-network reimbursement.

Do you offer sliding scale?

• I can offer limited reduced-fee slots based on availability. Feel free to ask.

How do I pay?

• Payments are processed through Stripe, Inc. At the beginning of each session I will send you a link through text message, email, or the chat window on Doxy.me that will take you to a site to enter your payment information and pay for that session. A receipt will be sent to your email.

Expectations & Boundaries

Are there things I am not allowed to do?

• Yes. As with all forms of counseling, certain behaviors are prohibited. These include making threats toward me or anyone else, engaging in flirtatious behavior, or attending session while under the influence of alcohol or any mind-altering substance such as marijuana.
• There are also telehealth-specific expectations. Even though you are in your own home, you are expected to behave as if you were physically attending a professional office. Therefore, you must:
  • Be fully clothed.
  • Sit upright with your hands visible. You may sit on your bed, but you must be seated with your hands above the covers.
  • Not drive during session. Sitting in a parked car is fine, but driving is not permitted under any circumstances, even with hands-free devices.
  

Do you take notes during session?

• Yes, I take clinical notes as required by law and ethics. I typically write or type, but may occasionally ask to audio record a session due to my carpal tunnel. I will never record you without your prior consent, and you are not required to give consent. You may ask for a copy of your clinical note at any time.

Do you talk during sessions or just listen?

• Both. You do most of the talking, but I will ask questions or provide feedback as needed.

Can I text you?

• Yes, but texting is for scheduling only; therapy content must stay in session.

Can I email you?

• I use email on rare occasions to send homework worksheets to you. Some directories use email for initial contact between client and counselor. In that case, our first communication may occur by email, but a 15-minute phone screening for fit will follow. If you need to cancel or reschedule an appointment, please use text or phone call. Email is not HIPAA secure, so any documentation you wish to provide should be sent through Doxy.me. Therapy content must stay in session.

What happens if I move out of Ohio?

• If you leave Ohio permanently, we will need to end counseling, but I will do my best to help you find a new counselor in your state. If you move to a bordering state and live close to the border, you may choose to cross back into Ohio for the duration of your sessions. However, I will need an address for your physical location during each session, and the travel may add stress. It is generally best to establish care with a counselor in your new state.

Sessions & Scheduling

Do you offer In-Person sessions?

• No. Session options are "Telehealth", via videoconference on Doxy.me, or "Phone Call".

What are your hours?

• I offer appointments Monday through Friday, from 10am to (last appointment starts at) 5pm.

How long are sessions?

• Standard sessions are 50 minutes. Longer sessions may be available upon request.

How do I schedule an appointment?

• By calling or texting 614-218-8843. If this is your first appointment, you will need to engage in a 15-minute phone call with me to screen for fit before scheduling your first session.

How often should I come to counseling?

• Most clients begin with weekly sessions and gradually move to every other week as they progress. Some situations may start at every-other-week if that frequency is more appropriate. Clients may also come twice a week if needed and financially feasible.

How long will I be in counseling?

• Everyone is different. Some people come for a few weeks, others for several months. We work at your pace.

How will I know when it's time to end counseling?

• When you have completed your goals and/or see a reduction in symptoms. Typically I notice the client is ready to end before they do, and I offer the suggestion to extend sessions from once a week to once every two weeks. In the event that I do not notice, all you, the client, need to do is state that you feel you are ready to end counseling and we will review your goals and create a plan for future relapses.

What if I want to end counseling before I have met my goals?

• You reserve the right to end counseling at any time, for any reason, without telling me. I do ask that if you feel I am doing something (or not doing something) wrong, please tell me, because it may be something I can correct. If not, I can help you get transitioned to a new counselor that may be a better fit for you. I may also be able to recommend counselors within your price range if that is the issue.
• Some people are afraid to tell their counselor that they don't think they are a good fit, and want to see another counselor—please don’t be. I do a quick ‘Screening for Fit’ at the beginning to make sure I can help with your situation, but our personalities matter too. With physical health, almost any doctor can treat a broken arm. With mental health, you need to feel comfortable with the person you’re talking to. If you don’t feel that connection with me, that’s completely okay. My goal is for you to get better, even if that means helping you find a different counselor. No hard feelings at all.

Do you assign homework?

• Usually. It depends on your goals and modality. If homework feels overwhelming, we won’t use it.

Do you offer short-term or long-term counseling?

• Both. Some clients come for a specific issue; others stay longer for ongoing support.

Can I see you for just a few sessions?

• Yes. We will discuss session length in our initial appointment, or perhaps during the screening for fit, and map out a plan for your situation.

Can I bring a support person to my session?

• Yes, you may have a support person join your session if you feel it would be helpful. I will need your signed consent stating that you are choosing to have them present. Please let me know ahead of time so I can prepare. I may ask your support person to step out briefly if I need to speak with you privately, and I may redirect them if they begin answering for you or taking the session in a different direction. You are my client, and my job is to protect your progress.

Do I have to be on camera?

• Only for the first session briefly so I can confirm that you are who you say you are. After that you may switch to audio only, and we will create a password to use for future sessions for identity verification. If your camera is off, mine will be off as well so that you feel comfortable and not watched.

Do you offer evening or weekend appointments?

• I do not offer weekend appointments. The last appointment for each weekday starts at 5pm.

What if I’m running late to my appointment?

• Send me a text message as soon as you are aware you will be late. If you do not notify me, I will text you at the 5-minute mark to inquire if you are on your way. If I do not hear from you I will wait no more than 30 minutes before your session will be declared a "no call/no show". Be advised, no call/no shows are billed at the full rate.

What if the counselor is running late?

• If I am running late, I will text to inform you, and your session cost will be prorated.

What if I cry in session?

• That’s totally fine. Many people tear up and/or cry heavily during counseling. It’s normal and welcome.

What if I don’t know what to talk about?

• Don’t worry, that’s common. I can guide the conversation.

What should I expect in my first session?

• Your first session is about getting to know your concerns, submitting (or filling out) paperwork, and I will conduct an assessment. See the "What to Expect" page for more information.

What if I need to cancel my appointment?

• I require 24 hours’ notice. Sessions cancelled late or missed may be billed. Note: you do not need to speak to me to cancel an appointment; you may leave a voice message or send a text message. These options have timestamps so I will know that you cancelled prior to the 24-hour requirement.

Are our sessions confidential?

• Yes, I follow all HIPAA privacy laws, and everything you share with me is confidential except in specific legally-required situations (danger to self/others, abuse of a minor, abuse of a vulnerable adult, or a court order). I cover all of this in your intake paperwork.
• For video sessions: I use Doxy.me, which is a HIPAA-compliant platform. It uses encrypted peer-to-peer video, which means your session is not recorded, stored, or routed through any server that saves your data. No one can access your session except you and me. I have a signed BAA with Doxy.me.
• For phone calls: Phone calls are generally private, but your phone carrier may keep basic metadata such as call times and duration. They cannot access the content of our conversation.
• For texting: Texting is not guaranteed to be confidential. Most phone companies store text message content for a short period, and anyone who has access to your phone may be able to see our messages. For that reason, text messages should be used only for scheduling, not counseling.

Scope of Practice & Services

Do you work with minors?

• I work with adults only (18+).

Do you diagnose?

• Yes.
• Not everyone meets the criteria for a formal diagnosis, and that’s completely okay. You can still receive counseling, and I will still provide clinical, evidence-based care even if no diagnosis is assigned.

Do you prescribe medication?

• No. Only medical providers (such as psychiatrists, NPs, or physicians) can prescribe medication. I can help you find a prescriber if needed.

Do you administer ADHD or Autism testing?

• No. ADHD and Autism evaluations must be completed by a psychologist or another qualified specialist trained in psychological testing. Counselors are not permitted to administer or score these assessments. If you need testing, I can help you find a reputable evaluation provider.

Do you offer couples or family counseling?

• No, however I do offer Interpersonal counseling.
• “Interpersonal counseling,” usually called Interpersonal Therapy (IPT), is a short-term, evidence-based therapy that focuses on improving your relationships and communication patterns, focusing on areas like conflict, role changes, grief, and building healthier communication skills. It looks at how your interactions with others affect your emotions, and how improving those interactions can reduce symptoms like depression and anxiety.

What ages/issues do you specialize in?

• I specialize in counseling adults 18 and older who are navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, and life transitions. My experience includes working with young adults, working professionals, and older adults. My clients have ranged from 18-year-olds just starting out to adults in their 70s, and I enjoy helping each stage of life with its unique challenges.

Do you offer emergency or crisis services?

• No. If you are experiencing a crisis, please call 911, 988 or go to your nearest emergency room.

What issues do you NOT work with?

• I do not provide treatment for active addiction, court-ordered counseling, or severe psychiatric conditions requiring a higher level of care, such as: Active psychosis, Schizophrenia, Eating Disorders, and Substance Dependence.

Do you complete paperwork for school, disability, or legal cases?

• Yes, I can complete Emotional Support Animal documentation when clinically appropriate. I can also release case information to another provider or organization with your signed consent on a Release of Information form.
• Note: Emotional Support Animals and Service Animals are not the same thing.

Can you help me find resources outside of therapy?

• Yes. If you need help finding a psychiatrist, support group, testing center, or community resource, I can point you in the right direction.

What if I don’t know what I need help with?

• That’s normal. You don’t need a perfectly formed goal to start counseling. We can figure it out together. If it turns out your issue is beyond my scope, I will help you find a counselor who is able to assist you.

Do you work with spiritual abuse or church hurt?

• Yes, many clients come to discuss difficult or painful religious experiences. I approach these issues with sensitivity and without judgment.

Do you meet with clients who are already seeing a psychiatrist?

• Yes. Often clients will have a psychiatrist to provide ADHD medication, and a counselor to provide mental health counseling. We can remain separate or I can coordinate care with your permission.

Can I see you if I’m already seeing another therapist?

• Typically, no, unless we’re providing different services. I would require your permission to coordinate with that counselor to determine the service being provided.

Do you work with grief, breakups, stress, or life changes?

• Yes. You do not need to have a "major psychological illness" to come to counseling. Any level of emotional distress qualifies you for counseling.

Do you provide disability paperwork?

• No.

Do you work with parents who want to talk about their adult children?

• Yes. Many parents seek counseling to process situations involving their adult children, whether it’s relationship stress, boundaries, communication, or worry. This is a normal part of counseling, and we can work on those concerns just like any other interpersonal issue.

Can you be my counselor and my pastor/spiritual advisor?

• No, I cannot be both your counselor and your pastor. I’m not licensed as a pastor, so I can’t take on that role or act as your formal spiritual advisor. However, I can offer spiritual support within our counseling sessions, as long as clinical counseling is also taking place. If you’re looking for a pastor or a dedicated spiritual mentor, we can make that part of your therapy goals, whether that means reconnecting with a church, finding a new one, or identifying someone who can fill that spiritual role in your life. I’ll support you in the counseling space while you work toward building those connections.

Telehealth & Privacy

If the sessions are online, does that mean all of my personal information is stored in the cloud, or somewhere else online?

• No. All of your information is stored directly on my highly encrypted laptop that never leaves my home. Also, the only document that has your actual name and address is the Intake Demographic form; all other notes will have a nickname I make up for you. That way if my computer is ever stolen, and the thief does manage to unencrypt it, they will not know which notes belong to which client, and thus will not be able to use any of that information against you. The only thing they would know for sure is your name and address.
• To be on the safe side, I have included a "Breach Protocol" in the company forms for you to follow should this scenario ever happen.

Are phone sessions as effective as video sessions?

• Yes. Many clients prefer phone counseling for privacy and comfort, and research shows it is equally effective.

What do I need for a telehealth session?

• Just a private space, a device with a camera (or a phone for phone sessions), and a stable internet connection. No downloads are required for Doxy.me.
• You may choose to be located in a public space during sessions, but you must sign a waiver indicating that you understand there will be limits to confidentiality, and you must wear headphones during the session.

Since the counseling is online, do I have to be located in Ohio?

• Yes. Because counseling licenses are state-specific, you must be physically located in Ohio during our sessions. You don’t need to live in Ohio permanently, but you do need to be inside the state at the time of each appointment. I will also need an address for your location during session so I know where to send emergency services if needed. If you are in your car during session, then I need the parking lot location, your car's make and model, color, and license number.
• You may be in your car during sessions, but you must be PARKED. If you are driving, I will end the session until either you pull over and park, or until another day.

What happens if my internet goes out during a session?

• I will call you to continue the session by phone. If we cannot reconnect, we will reschedule.

How can sessions be private if I live with other people?

• You can wear headphones, use white noise machines (or fans), sit in your car, or go for a walk. Walking outdoors does expose you to anyone else walking by, but they are unlikely to hear the entirety of your conversation, and it is unlikely that you will see that stranger again, unlike your family who may be offended by the things you discuss in counseling. If these options will not work for you, then telehealth counseling may not be a good fit for you.

Can I use my nickname in counseling?

• Yes. I will need your legal name on the Intake Demographic form, but I will call you the name you prefer. Also, all of your clinical notes will have a "name" that I create instead of your legal name for confidentiality purposes.