My qualifications: I obtained a Master's degree in mental health counseling from Capella University in 2008. I obtained my Pennsylvania state counseling license in 2010. More important than either of these, I have life experience!
What services I provide: I conduct a private practice out of my home office in the Philadelphia suburbs. I see clients there throughout the week. I also speak with clients via phone and Skype. All appointments are fifty minutes in length unless previously arranged to be a different length of time. During the counseling session I can help you better understand why you're having the problems that led you to seek counseling. I can also help you find solutions. I also conduct intensive counseling programs, where individuals come to my area and stay for a length of time in order to meet with me on a more frequent basis. The client and I collaboratively develop this program to meet the client's needs.
How I counsel: I am a Christian, biblical counselor who also uses scientifically-proven methods to help people with mood, anxiety, relationship, and other problems. I invite clients to pray with me at the close of each session. I believe in wholistic health principles, so advocate care of the body. Cognitive-behavioral, dialectical-behavioral and other scientifically validated and biblically sound kinds of counseling also play a part in my practice.
What services cost: My established fee is $100 (US funds) per hour. But don't panic! Uninsured clients or clients whose insurance companies won't reimburse them for services get a reduced fee of $50. I sometimes lower the fee further, but this is negotiated between the client and me. Fees are payable at the end of each session. For phone and Skype clients, I bill once per month. This bill is payable by credit card, check or money order.
The time investment involved: Most clients come to counseling weekly, but the frequency and duration of counseling is ultimately up to the client. Often clients eventually space the sessions out, either every other week or once a month. Most clients improve within a few months, but a few require a longer period to realize improvement.
What makes counseling successful: I like the equation skill + will = worth the bill; meaning, my skill plus your effort will make counseling something of great value to you. Some clients make great strides through counseling—usually because they fully engage, do their homework, and come to sessions on time.
How you set up and appointment: I am currently taking new clients. Call or email me requesting services. We will have a short consultation via email or phone, and if we decide to go forward with the counseling, I will send you an intake form and a client/counselor contract which can be filled out and mailed back or brought to your first session. I prefer digital copies, but you can print out the forms and fill them out by hand if you like.
It's that simple!
(Download Jennifer's counseling Toolbox.)
