A clear, compassionate roadmap—so you know exactly how we’ll work together, what’s needed, and how to begin.
How Virtual Therapy Works
Meet from the comfort of home using a secure client portal designed for privacy and consistency.
- Private platform: encrypted video sessions via a secure portal (no downloads required).
- Logistics: book online, receive automated reminders, and join with one click.
- Space setup: choose a quiet, well‑lit spot; use headphones for privacy; test your connection.
- Accessibility: flexible scheduling, no travel time, ideal for busy routines or mobility needs.
The Therapy Process
Therapy is not a one-size-fits-all journey—it’s a collaborative process that unfolds at your pace. My goal is to create a safe, supportive environment where you can feel understood, gain clarity, and build the tools you need for meaningful change. Together, we’ll move through a clear arc that balances exploration, deep healing, and integration into everyday life.
1) Discovery
In the beginning, we’ll focus on understanding your story, goals, and immediate needs. This includes exploring your history, current challenges, and hopes for therapy. You’ll leave these early sessions with a sense of direction, an initial plan, and practical next steps to begin your healing process.
2) Deep Work
Once we’ve established a foundation, we’ll begin the deeper work. This is where we process the patterns, emotions, and experiences that may be holding you back. Using tailored, evidence-based modalities such as EMDR, Brainspotting, ACT, DBT, IFS, CBT, and Mindfulness practices, we’ll address both past wounds and present concerns. This stage helps you release old burdens, build healthier coping strategies, and strengthen your ability to navigate challenges.
3) Integration & Healing
The final stage is about reinforcing the growth you’ve achieved and weaving it into your daily life. We’ll track your progress, celebrate your strengths, and refine tools to support ongoing well-being. The focus here is on creating lasting change—helping you feel more balanced, resilient.
Frequently Asked Questions
Starting therapy can bring up a lot of questions, especially if it’s your first time. Below you’ll find answers to some of the most common questions clients and families ask. If you don’t see your question here, please feel free to reach out—I’m happy to talk with you.
How do I know if I need to be in therapy?
There’s no “right” or “wrong” reason to start therapy. Some people come because they’re struggling with anxiety, sadness, or past experiences that feel heavy. Others seek support during a big life change, relationship challenges, or when stress feels overwhelming. You don’t need to wait until things feel “bad enough”—therapy can also be a space for personal growth, self-discovery, and building healthier patterns. If you’ve been wondering whether therapy could help, that curiosity itself may be a sign that it’s worth exploring.
What are some good things about being in therapy?
Therapy provides a safe, nonjudgmental space to talk openly about your thoughts, feelings, and experiences. Many people find it helps them feel supported, gain clarity, develop healthier coping skills, and make meaningful changes in their lives. It can also improve relationships, reduce stress, and build confidence.
How often will we meet, and for how long each session is?
Most clients meet once a week for a 50–55 minute session, but frequency can vary depending on your needs and goals. Some people prefer to start with weekly sessions, while others may move to every other week as they progress. We’ll collaborate to find the pace that feels right for you.
I’m concerned about my personal information. Are things I say in therapy kept private?
Yes. What you share in therapy is confidential, which means it stays between us. There are only a few exceptions required by law—for example, if someone is at risk of harm to themselves, others, or others’ property or if child or elder abuse is suspected. We’ll go over these limits in detail during our first session so you know exactly what to expect.
As a teenager, is confidentiality different?
Yes, but your privacy still matters. What you share in therapy is confidential, and I do not share details of our sessions with parents without your permission—unless safety concerns arise. Parents are kept informed in general terms about progress, but your trust and privacy are a priority.
As the parent of a teenager, how will I be involved?
Parents play an important supportive role. I may check in with you periodically to share general updates and suggestions for how you can support your teen. However, the specifics of what your teen shares in session remain private, unless there’s a safety concern.
What might I expect in our first session?
Our first session is a chance for us to get to know each other. We’ll talk about what brings you to therapy, your history, and your goals. I’ll also answer any questions you have about the process. By the end, we’ll have a clearer idea of how we can work together.
How do I find out more about EMDR or Brainspotting?
I’m happy to answer your questions in session and share resources. You can also read more about these approaches on the services section of my website. Both EMDR and Brainspotting are evidence-based methods designed to help process trauma and emotional distress in ways that talking alone sometimes cannot.
www.emdria.org and https://brainspotting.com/
What are some reasons people go to therapy?
People come to therapy for many reasons—feeling anxious, depressed, or overwhelmed; coping with loss or trauma; navigating life transitions; improving relationships; or simply wanting personal growth and self-understanding. No concern is too big or too small.
How long will therapy take?
The length of therapy depends on your goals, needs, and the challenges you’re working through. Some people come for a few months, while others continue longer-term for ongoing support. We’ll check in regularly about your progress and whether adjustments are needed..
What does therapy cost and what forms of payment do you accept?
My 50 min session fee is $190 and longer sessions (90 minutes) can be scheduled based on your needs and preferences. I am an out-of-network provider and accept credit/debit cards and HSA/FSA accounts. If you’re wanting to use insurance, I’ll create a superbill for you to submit to your carrier and suggest checking in with them to determine eligibility and reimbursement.
What is your cancellation policy?
I ask for at least 24 hours’ notice if you need to cancel or reschedule an appointment. Cancellations with less than 24 hours’ notice may be charged the full session fee. I also understand that life happens and will do my best to get you rescheduled within the week to avoid a cancellation fee.
How can I find out more about your approach, influences, and philosophy?
I share more about my training, values, and therapeutic style on the “About Me” page of this website. You’re also welcome to ask me directly—I believe finding the right fit is an important part of successful therapy and want you to feel comfortable before moving forward.
What is a “Good Faith Estimate” and the “No Surprises Act”?
As of January 1, 2022, the “No Surprises Act” requires providers to give clients who are uninsured or not using insurance a **Good Faith Estimate** of the expected cost of therapy. This helps ensure you have a clear understanding of potential expenses before starting services.
For questions or more information about your right to a Good Faith Estimate or the dispute process, visit
https://www.cms.gov/nosurprises/consumers or call 1- 800-985-3059.
Cristina Billingsley, LMFT, CCTP 