Get Started

I strongly believe that when the therapist and client are on the same page, therapy is more likely to be helpful to you. Here is a description of what it’s like to work together and some of the values I bring to my work. If, after reading this, you think I’m a good fit for your needs, there are instructions for getting started at the bottom of the page.

  • I work with adult women and womxn (18 and older), and by that I mean all people who have been socialized as girls and women, including cisgender women, transgender women, feminized bodies, and gender-nonconforming bodies.

    I provide individual therapy only.

    1. Fill out the New Client Inquiry form on my website. This form helps us both determine if we're a good match for your needs.

    2. After submitting the form, you'll be directed to schedule a free 15-minute consultation with me. This call is an opportunity for us to clarify any questions or logistics before officially starting.

    3. At the scheduled consultation time, I'll give you a call. If all goes well and we decide to move forward, I'll set you up in my client portal. From there, you can secure your weekly appointment slot and complete the intake and consent forms.

    4. Before each session, you'll receive an email with a link for our video session.

  • 50-minute sessions: $190

    In compliance with the No Surprises Act enacted on January 1, 2022, all healthcare providers must notify clients of their rights and protections against “surprise billing.” This Act requires that we notify you of your federally protected rights to receive a notification when services are rendered by an out-of-network provider, if you are uninsured, or if you elect not to use your insurance.

    You have the right to receive a “Good Faith Estimate” explaining how much your therapy or counseling will cost. Click here for more information.

  • I do not work with insurance companies directly or accept Medicare. If you have out-of-network benefits, I can provide a 'superbill' for reimbursement.

    If you need clarity on your out-of-pocket expenses, please check with your insurance provider before scheduling your phone consultation.

  • Sessions are conducted via secure telehealth using video conferencing for face-to-face conversations. The platform is HIPAA-protected and completely confidential, with no recording. You can connect using an internet browser or an app on your tablet or smartphone.

    All you need is a device with internet, a quiet, well-lit space, and headphones for better audio.

  • During our initial sessions, I'll gather information about your challenges and therapy goals. By the end of the first or second session, I'll share my understanding of your situation and what I can offer.

    In subsequent sessions, you'll discuss areas to work on, and I'll use my expertise to guide you toward the changes you seek. We'll regularly review our progress to ensure it's beneficial for you.

    Expect to engage in exercises during sessions (in-vivo learning) to apply concepts directly. This hands-on approach may feel unfamiliar initially but is key to personal growth. I'll also provide exercises for you to practice outside of our sessions.

  • This type of therapy is learned by doing, so we will meet weekly. Therapy concludes when you've practiced and feel confident in using the skills consistently in your daily life.

    While it might seem logical to reduce session frequency, this could unnecessarily prolong your progress.

    Therapy length varies, as everyone learns at their own pace. The goal is to empower you to confidently navigate life's challenges.

    Please note, my practice doesn't offer regular support between sessions.

  • I have a unique cancellation policy:

    No advanced notice needed. You can cancel last-minute with no fees.*

    I waive fees for two cancellations per year. Other missed appointments are rescheduled within a three-week window: the week before, during, or after your absence.

    You’ll access my online scheduling system for quick and seamless cancellations or rescheduling.

    *A cancellation fee is only charged after using up your two waived sessions and not rescheduling during the three-week window.

  • My working hours are Tuesday - Thursday 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM. I am out of the office on most major holidays.

    1. Working with me is not like visiting a medical doctor. It’s not just talking about your problems and feelings. It requires your best efforts to change behaviors, which in turn will lead to changes in your relationship with yourself, others, and your life.

    2. Make therapy a part of your life by reflecting on what we’ve discussed, doing the homework, and practicing skills.

    3. Please communicate your needs. When you give me feedback, I consider it an opportunity to move your therapy and the therapeutic relationship in a more workable direction.

    4. Therapy won't be easy. Even though we start therapy seeking change, change is often far more difficult than we anticipated. Be patient, have faith in the process, trust that challenges are a sign of change.

Let’s Work Together

To become a new client, click the button below to complete a New Client Inquiry Form. This form helps us determine if I’m the right therapist for you. You’ll be prompted to schedule a phone consultation after you have submitted the form.

Please complete the New Client Screening Form after you have done the following:

  1. Please review all the information in the section above to ensure my approach and policies will work for you.

  2. Read through the client profile that matches you best:

    Therapy for Women
    Chronic Illness & Health Challenges
    Body Acceptance

If you are having trouble with my online scheduling process, please email me at counseling@emilywhitish.com.