Starting therapy often comes with a lot of questions — that’s completely normal. Here are the ones we hear most.
Jump to: Getting started · Insurance & cost · Sessions · Credentials · Crisis support
Last updated: October 2026
Online Therapy FAQ
Getting started
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Getting started is simple:
Reach out through our contact form, by email, or by call or text at (248) 592-7798.
Schedule a free, 15-minute consultation so we can get to know each other.
If you’d like to move forward, create an account on our secure patient portal, upload your insurance information, and sign the consent for services. We’ll verify your benefits and let you know your costs.
Book your first session.
We’ll walk you through each step and answer any questions along the way.
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It’s a brief video call — no strings attached — so we can meet each other, get a feel for what you’re struggling with, and see if we’re a good fit. You’re not going to click with everybody, even a very experienced therapist, and that’s okay. The rapport you build with your therapist is what matters most, so we always want you to have the chance to meet first.
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Yes — Michigan residency is the only requirement.
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Usually within just 1 day! We typically respond to new inquiries within a few hours, and verifying your insurance takes a day or two. Once you’ve uploaded your documentation and consent for services, we can schedule your first session.
Insurance & cost
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We are currently in-network with Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan, Blue Care Network, and Aetna. If you have a different plan, self-pay is always an option. Some out-of-network insurances also offer “single case agreements” as needed.
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Yes! We’re in-network with Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan and Blue Care Network (Blue Cross’s HMO), as well as Aetna. We’ll confirm your specific plan’s mental health benefits before your first session.
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Once you’ve decided to move forward, you’ll create an account on our secure patient portal and upload your insurance information. We then run a verification of benefits (VOB) with your insurance company — this usually takes a day or two. Before your first session, we’ll email you a summary of your coverage, including your copay and how far along you are with your deductible. Insurance can be very complicated, so we never want you to be surprised.
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Cost depends on your insurance plan. We will verify your benefits so you know and understand your insurance coverage and associated fees (like your copay, progress towards your deductible, etc.) before our first session. If you’d like to pay directly, the self-pay rate is $145 per session. We are willing to be flexible if unexpected insurance or financial changes arise, and you can discuss temporary payment arrangements with your therapist.
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Insurance can be unpredictable, and errors occasionally occur. If you’re ever confused about a claim, charge on your account, or feel that your balance is inaccurate, please communicate with your therapist. We encourage you to review your account often and strive to be as forthcoming and flexible as possible.
Sessions & online therapy
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Online therapy—also known as Telehealth—utilizes HIPAA-compliant real-time video calls to allow patients and clinicians to connect without being in the same physical location. As long as you have access to the internet, we are able to meet on your mobile phone or computer. Documentation standards are the same as in-person care. Before your first session or consultation call, we will provide you with a unique Zoom link. If you have any questions or concerns about online psychotherapy, please let your therapist know, and they’ll be happy to address them.
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The first session—often called an intake—is all about getting to know you better. Your therapist will ask a lot of questions about your history and your goals so we can begin working on a treatment plan that suits your needs. We’ll also explain some of the hallmarks of psychotherapy, practice policies, and answer any questions or concerns you may have about working together.
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Sessions are typically 50 minutes, though the initial session may last an hour. 30-minute sessions are also available as needed.
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Treatment length depends on your specific needs and goals. You will likely start with meeting weekly and then adjust as needed from there.
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Most sessions take place between 8:45 a.m. and 4 p.m. That said, we know life doesn’t always fit neatly into business hours — evening and weekend appointments are sometimes available when needed, so just ask during your consultation.
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No problem! Please let your therapist know at least 24 hours in advance, and we can find another time to meet. We understand that unpredictable events can sometimes make 24-hours notice impossible; just communicate with your therapist, and we will be accommodating.
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You are welcome to email your therapist at any time. Texting between sessions may be available if needed. We try to be as accessible to our patients as possible, especially if you are in crisis. (Texts aren’t monitored around the clock, though — if you need immediate help, please call or text 988.)
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Absolutely. Many of our patients are young adults. You can meet with your therapist wherever you feel comfortable, and therapy can continue over breaks, study abroad, and post-graduation.
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Yes! We work with kids, teens, and adolescents ages 8 and up. Parents are welcome to join the free consultation and first session.
Credentials
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A Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) is a mental health professional who has advanced education and training with helping people cope with challenges and improve their well-being. There’s an important difference: you can have an MSW without working clinically, but an LMSW is licensed to provide psychotherapy. LMSWs cannot prescribe medication, but we must complete at least 45 hours of continuing education every 3 years to stay informed on alternative treatments and leading psychological interventions. Read about Lauren’s education and training.
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A Certified Clinical Trauma Professional is someone who has additional, specialized training in understanding and treating trauma (like abuse, violence, or PTSD). They learn how to recognize signs of trauma, provide trauma-informed care, and help clients cope and heal in a safe, supportive way. Lauren holds this certification through Evergreen Certifications. Learn more about online trauma therapy in Michigan.
Crisis support
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If you feel like a danger to yourself or someone else, please call or text 988 to reach the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, or go to your nearest emergency room. You can also text HOME to 741741 for live support in the US and Canada. These services are free, confidential, and available 24/7. Michigan residents can also call the Michigan Crisis and Access Line (MiCAL) at 844-446-4225. If you are in the greater Detroit area, the Common Ground Emergency Line is 800-231-1127.
Still have questions?
Let’s talk about it! A free, 15-minute consultation — no strings attached.
15 minutes · No strings attached
