FAQ

Where are your offices located?

I have two welcoming locations: one in Irving and another in Prosper.

Do you offer virtual sessions?
Absolutely! I offer virtual sessions using a secure, HIPAA-compliant platform so you can have therapy from home.
I don't live in Texas; can you still see me virtually?
I offer virtual sessions to people throughout the United States. As long as you are physically located in one of these states, I can provide services to you.
How should I prepare for a virtual session?
To maximize your virtual session, ensure a stable Internet connection and a quiet, distraction-free room. Earphones can help with privacy and better audio quality. It’s best to use a tablet or laptop, as phones can be too small and often fall, making the experience less ideal. Please log on a few minutes before your appointment to test your sound and connection.
What are your office hours?
I’m here to help from 8:00 am – 3:00 pm Monday – Friday and 9:00 am – 1:00 pm on Saturdays. I offer extended hours from 4:00 pm – 8:00 pm during the summer.
How long is each session?
Each session lasts 50 minutes. The timer starts on the hour, so please arrive on time to make the most of our time together.
What if I'm running late?
Please leave a voicemail or text me to let me know. I’ll wait for up to 20 minutes. After that, I assume you’re not coming, and the no-show/late cancellation fee will apply.
What if you're still in session with someone else when I arrive?
Sometimes, urgent situations require extra time with another client. If this happens, please have a seat in the waiting area. I will extend your session to ensure you get your full 50 minutes. If that’s inconvenient, I will add the time to your next appointment or prorate your session. You will never pay for time you did not receive.
How much do you charge?
Let’s chat first to see if we’re a good fit. Then, I’ll explain my fees.
Do you accept insurance?

Yes, I am in-network with Aetna.

What if you don't take my insurance?
If I’m out-of-network with your insurance company, I’ll provide you with a Superbill to submit for partial reimbursement. Please get in touch with your insurance company to confirm your benefits and the amount of reimbursement.
Can I use my HSA or FSA card?
Absolutely! Therapy services are medical expenses; you can pay with HSA/FSA cards.
What forms of payment do you accept?
I accept cash, debit, credit, and FSA/HSA cards.
How do I schedule my first appointment?

Call (469) 747-1788 or email me (admin@alternativesps.com) for a phone consultation to discuss your needs, and we can schedule your appointment then.

What is your cancellation policy?

Since your appointment is specially reserved for you, I require a 24-hour cancellation notice. You can leave a voicemail, text my office, or go online to the Client Portal to cancel or reschedule your appointments.

What age groups do you work with?
I work with children as young as 2.5 years, adolescents, and adults, depending on their situation and needs.
Will you listen and nod, or do you offer feedback?
While listening is important, I believe in providing feedback and suggestions. Your experiences are valuable, and you deserve to feel heard. I will listen, but I will also give you feedback, offer guidance, and help you see where you can make a difference in your life.
What therapy methods do you use?
I am passionate about offering high-quality, evidence-based therapies such as Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT), Gottman Method, Dialectal Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT). I am also a Certified TF-CBT Therapist, Trauma-Focused Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT).
How long do people usually stay in therapy with you?
While the length of therapy varies depending on individual needs and goals, short-term treatment generally lasts between 8-24 sessions.
What is your professional background?
I hold a bachelor’s degree in Psychology from the University of North Texas and a Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology from the University of Northern Colorado. I completed my pre-doctoral internship at Wasatch Behavioral Health in Provo, Utah, and my post-doctoral fellowship at the Dallas Children’s Advocacy Center (DCAC).
What does a typical adult session look like?

We always start with an assessment to understand your situation better – this usually takes 2-3 sessions. Before the first appointment, you will complete web-based assessment tools/questionnaires before we meet.

During our sessions, we’ll discuss the assessments, ensure we’re on the same page, and set goals for your therapy. Each session includes a brief check-in and follows a plan based on your treatment goals or any specific situations that may take priority. Before each session, you’ll also complete a five-minute assessment to monitor your progress and ensure we’re on track.

Many of my clients love completing it and seeing their results on the resulting graph – it helps them have tangible proof of their progress and feel more motivated to keep working.

I've worked with therapists who never tell me what's going on in my child's sessions, and I feel out of the loop. How do you handle children's sessions?

Your child will show progress most when you, the caregiver, are actively involved in their treatment. Here’s how I handle it:

  1. Caregiver Involvement: Expect to meet with me at least once every two sessions. You play a crucial role in your child’s life, and your involvement is essential for their progress.
  2. Initial Meeting: Our first session will be without your child. This session allows you to speak openly and freely about your concerns without worrying about your child overhearing anything sensitive.
  3.  Joint Sessions: We will then have sessions with your child to ensure everyone is on the same page regarding goals and progress. This collaborative approach helps us work effectively as a team.

Remember, I only see your child once a week, and you have the best chance of making a difference by implementing what we discuss in sessions and supporting your child in doing the same. This way, you will always feel informed and involved in your child’s therapy journey.

Does your arm tire of moving like a windshield wiper during EMDR?
Although you may notice my right arm is slightly more toned than my left, it doesn’t tire.
Can I talk about religion or spirituality with you?
Absolutely. We can discuss any topic you wish.
I have a bit of a potty mouth; will you be offended?
No. I encourage you to express yourself however you feel comfortable. It can be cathartic to say what’s on your mind without filters. If you don’t hurt me, yourself, or destroy my office, go ahead and express yourself.