Frequently Asked Questions
Welcome! I know starting therapy – whether for yourself, your child, or your family – comes with a lot of questions. This FAQ page is here to give you helpful answers (with a warm touch). If you don’t see your question here, feel free to reach out. I love hearing from curious minds!
Where is your office located?
Stonehill Cottage is located in a cozy, peaceful space in Boise, Idaho.
We’re near Franklin and Maple Grove (you’ll receive the exact address when your appointment is confirmed).
Virtual sessions are also available for Idaho residents.
Where do I park my car?
Park in the driveway or on the street. Please do not block other vehicles or mailboxes.
What are your hours?
I offer flexible weekday hours, including afternoons and some early evenings. Let’s find a time that works for your schedule.
How long are sessions?
Most sessions last 50 minutes. Initial appointments or parent consultations may run a bit longer.
Do you take insurance? Why or why not?
I am an out-of-network provider, which means I don’t bill insurance directly. Why? Because I believe your therapy should be tailored to you, not dictated by an insurance company.
However, I’m happy to provide a “Superbill” you can submit for possible reimbursement if you have out-of-network mental health benefits.
How do I set up an initial appointment?
You can contact me through this website, and I’ll walk you through next steps.
You can also get started with a FREE 15-minute consultation.
What is your cancellation policy?
Life happens – I get it. I ask for 24 hours’ notice to cancel or reschedule without a fee.
What if my child doesn’t want to come to therapy?
Totally understandable… and more common than you think. We spend so much time teaching our kids not to talk to strangers, and then suddenly we’re asking them to open up to one!
That hesitation makes sense. My first priority is building trust. I don’t rush kids into talking. I meet them where they are. Our sessions are playful, creative, and full of opportunities for connection, so over time, most kids realize it’s not nearly as scary as they imagined. Once they feel safe and start engaging, it often becomes something they look forward to.
What is your professional training and experience?
I’m a licensed therapist with years of experience supporting children, teens, families, and individuals.
I’ve also worked as a school counselor and have advanced training in emotional regulation, trauma, executive functioning, and parent-child dynamics.
What age ranges do you work with?
I work with children (as young as 4), tweens, teens, parents, and individual adults.
Do you work with women? Men? Couples?
Yes! While much of my work centers around children and families, I also provide individual therapy for women and men seeking healing and growth. I occasionally see couples, depending on fit and goals.
What do you actually do in sessions with clients?
That depends on the age and needs of the client.
With kids, I often use games, play, and expressive tools.
With teens and adults, we talk, explore patterns, and practice new skills. No couch analysis – just real, meaningful work.
Do your clients receive assignments to work on between sessions?
Often, yes! These are practical, doable things to help apply what we talk about in session. You’ll never leave feeling unsure of what to do next.
What modalities do you use in your work with clients?
I draw from CBT, play therapy, solution-focused approaches, attachment theory, and trauma-informed care. Therapy with me is always personalized.
How do I get the most out of working with you?
Come as you are. Be open. Be honest.
Therapy is a team effort, and I’ll meet you with compassion and commitment every step of the way.
Is therapy just for crisis moments?
Not at all. Many of my clients come in when life is mostly okay, but they want it to be better. Therapy is a gift you give yourself and your family.
Do I have to talk about my dreams?
Only if you want to! Some people love dream analysis. Others? Not so much. I follow your lead.
What’s your favorite therapy tool for kids?
Honestly? My puppet named Max. He’s great at helping little ones share big feelings.
Cats or dogs?
Dogs! But I have a soft spot for any animal with floppy ears.
What kind of tissues do you use?
The soft, lotion-infused kind – because tears happen, and scratchy tissues are just rude.
Will therapy be awkward?
Sometimes, a little. That’s okay. We’ll laugh, breathe, and get through it together. I promise to always make space for your truth, with zero judgment.
Do I need to have it all figured out before starting?
Not even close. Most people come to therapy feeling messy or uncertain. That’s exactly the right place to begin.
Still wondering about something?
Let’s chat. I’d be happy to answer your questions and see if we’re a good fit.