Frequently Asked Questions

The quick answer is “No, but you might have out-of-network benefits if you have a PPO plan.”

The longer answer is I do not contract directly with insurance companies, so clients pay for services out of pocket. A credit card is kept on file and charged at the time of service.

However, if you have a preferred provider organization (PPO) plan, you may be able to use your out-of-network benefits. Contact your insurance provider before we begin working together, and ask “What are my out-of-network benefits for outpatient psychotherapy?”

If you decide to use your out-of-network benefits, payment is still due at the time of service. Each month I will provide you with a “superbill” that includes all the codes needed for reimbursement. You will submit this document to your insurance company, and they will reimburse you based on the terms stated in your contract with them.

It is important to know that when you use your out-of-network benefits, a diagnosis is required, and your insurance company will be permitted access to your therapy records.

Individual sessions are $310 and family sessions are $390.

We don’t know that answer yet. I understand the desire to have a concrete plan with a finite end, but therapy is not a “one size fits all” thing where all humans require exactly 37 therapy sessions. We’re talking about your unique life and psyche, which are both unlike anyone else’s.

Here’s what I can say – I am rooting for you to achieve what you’re being invited to achieve, and I am ever mindful to NOT stand in the way of your progress or drag things out unnecessarily. No way! The goal is always to cultivate your understanding of yourself, so that you can move forward in life. There will come a time when you know in your mind, body, and soul that you’ve completed that goal.

Imagine trying to describe a trip to Alaska with a friend who’s never been there. No matter how many details you recall, your friend will never understand the magnitude of Denali (and how the mountain is so tall it creates its own weather!) or how it feels to see a grizzly bear in the wild.

Now imagine talking about that trip with someone who went to Alaska with you. The shared experience allows more connection and understanding.

In the same way, therapists who do not have ADHD cannot personally recall, articulate, and reflect the complete experience of living with ADHD. I can. We haven’t just “visited Alaska” together. We’ve both lived there our whole lives.

Each session is 50-minutes long and scheduled weekly.

A set day and time is held exclusively for you, so for example, you can plan that every Wednesday at 3 PM is dedicated to “YOU time.”

While there are many reasons for weekly therapy, the main reason is this – we can go deeper together when we consistently see each other (without having to play “catch me up on what’s been happening”). When you commit to therapy weekly, your process of understanding yourself is more effective.

ADHD Therapy FAQs

Calming an ADHD mind involves mindfulness, movement, structured routines (I know…), and grounding techniques like deep breathing or sensory focus. Reducing distractions, practicing positive self-talk, and focusing on one task at a time also help. I provide all my clients with proven, tailored strategies for calming and managing their ADHD minds.

Yes, ADHD is recognized as a disability under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). It can qualify individuals for accommodations in school, work, or public settings if symptoms significantly impair daily functioning. I can help you look at your options in therapy.

Even though “disorder” is in the name, having ADHD is primarily only a disorder because our current world is not built with ADHDers in mind. While we wait (and work) on the world changing, let’s work together to create a plan for your specific needs.

Untreated ADHD in adults can lead to chronic stress, low self-esteem, difficulty maintaining relationships, and career challenges. It may also increase the risk of anxiety, depression, or impulsive behaviors that disrupt daily life.

People with ADHD can benefit from therapy, medication, coaching, and support groups. My professional opinion is that therapy is the best starting point for managing ADHD. We can discuss your options and routes for improvement together, and weigh the pros and cons of each.

Yes, untreated ADHD can lead to worsening symptoms due to increasing demands of adulthood, such as career and relationships. Some people only realize they have ADHD once the demands of being a parent start to emphasize their organizational challenges. Untreated ADHD can also contribute to coexisting conditions like anxiety or depression over time.

ADHD doesn’t necessarily worsen with age, but challenges may appear greater as life responsibilities increase. Hormonal changes or untreated symptoms can amplify difficulties. Therapy and coping tools can mitigate these effects.

No one tells you that ADHD often comes with hidden strengths, like creativity, problem-solving, and resilience. While it presents challenges, ADHD therapy can help you discover how to turn those traits into advantages.

No, ADHD is not a form of autism, but the two share similarities, such as difficulties with focus and social interactions. They can co-occur, but they are distinct neurodevelopmental conditions.

I offer ADHD Therapy for $310 per session. New clients join for weekly sessions and appreciate seeing the progress of meeting regularly within the first several sessions. We can discuss options during the free initial consultation.

Getting started is easy! Contact me to schedule your free consultation. I’m always open to meeting new clients and would love to help you take the next step in your ADHD journey.

Autism Therapy FAQs

The autistic experience is multi-faceted and diverse, so in the same way that allistics (non-autistics) may seek different therapeutic support for different concerns, autistics can also benefit from a diverse number of therapeutic interventions. The best indicator for success in working with autism in therapy is when it’s provided by a clinician who is trained in working with autistics and committed to creating a safe and empowering environment. Then a tailored, multidisciplinary approach focusing on individual goals, sensory management, and skill development works best.

Therapy improves skills and quality of life but does not cure autism. Interventions like CBT, mindfulness, and communication skills training can help manage challenges through practical solutions. Mind and body approaches that address the traumatic experiences of autistics living in an unwelcome world can significantly reduce negative and critical thought patterns.

Since the traits of autism exist on a spectrum and impact people differently, the term high-functioning autism has commonly been used to differentiate between autistics who require more support for daily functioning versus those who can largely function independently with lower levels of support. Within the autism community alternative language such as “low or high support need autism”, “masked autism”, or “invisible autism” has also been proposed to acknowledge that a person’s value is not contingent upon their functioning. 

There is diversity within the autistic community, so while some may prefer referring to themselves as “low support need” and another may prefer “invisible autistic”. For example a person may prefer “masked autistic” to acknowledge the additional work they may be doing to function as expected by others while still honoring their autistic reality. The important part is to respect each person’s self-identification language.

Autism cannot develop later in life but may be diagnosed in adulthood if milder traits were previously unrecognized. Increasing stressors or the accumulation of unresolved trauma can also tax your nervous system making the autistic traits used to cope more pronounced. Some adults only receive their diagnosis in their 30s, 40s, or later. Getting clarity on how your unique nervous system works can make a big difference in your quality of life.

Autism is a neurodevelopmental condition, not a mental disorder. It affects the processing of information, communication, and behavior but may co-occur with mental health issues such as anxiety and depression.

Adults can cope with autism through therapy, routines, support groups, and self-care strategies. Professional help for co-occurring conditions is also important. Building a life that honors your unique needs and way of functioning makes a tremendous difference.

ADHD is not autism but shares overlapping traits. The two conditions frequently co-occur (sometimes referred to as AuDHD) and require distinct treatment strategies.

I offer autism therapy for $310 per session. I work with adults exclusively, not teens or children. New clients join for weekly sessions and appreciate seeing the progress of meeting regularly within the first several sessions. We can discuss options during the free initial consultation.

Getting started is easy! Contact me to schedule your free consultation. I’m always open to meeting new clients and would love to help you take the next step in your autism journey.

Anxiety Therapy FAQs

There’s no single solution that works for everyone, but one of the most effective ways to reduce anxiety is through a combination of therapy and mindfulness practices. Therapy helps identify and address the root causes of your anxiety, while mindfulness can bring you back to the present moment, reducing worry and stress. In my practice, I also employ breathwork which is a fast and effective tool for releasing anxious stress stored in the body.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is widely considered the gold standard for treating anxiety. It focuses on identifying and changing negative thought and behavior patterns that contribute to anxiety. Other effective therapies include Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and mindfulness-based approaches. I’ll work with you to find an approach best suited to your needs.

Absolutely. Therapy provides tools and strategies to manage and reduce anxiety, helping you regain control over your thoughts and emotions. My clients find that therapy improves their anxiety and enhances their overall quality of life, relationships, and sense of well-being.

Self-help strategies for anxiety include:

  • Practicing mindfulness or meditation to stay grounded and in the present moment.
  • Attending guided breathwork sessions or practicing on one’s own.
  • Engaging in regular physical activity to release tension and improve mood.
  • Journaling to process anxious thoughts.This also helps gain distance and see things more clearly.
  • Seeking support from trusted friends or family.

While self-help is beneficial, therapy can take your progress even further by providing expert guidance to address anxiety at its root cause. Reach out for a free consultation today.

Relaxing your mind and body starts with intentional practices, such as deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, or mindfulness meditation. Creating a calming routine, like taking a warm bath, practicing yoga, or listening to soothing music, can also help reduce tension and quiet your mind.

Anxiety can improve significantly with the right tools and support, but ignoring it usually makes it worse. Left unchecked, anxiety can persist or even intensify over time. Therapy helps address the underlying causes of anxiety and equips you with strategies to manage it effectively, leading to lasting relief. So don’t just hope it will go away – address it directly in therapy.

Severe anxiety can feel overwhelming and all-consuming. It often includes persistent worry, physical symptoms like a racing heart or chest tightness, difficulty concentrating, and avoiding situations that trigger anxiety. In some cases, severe anxiety can lead to panic attacks, leaving you feeling powerless. If you’re experiencing this, therapy can provide the support and tools you need to regain control.

Anxiety is common for individuals with Autism or ADHD, often stemming from sensory sensitivities, challenging social situations, or difficulty managing tasks. Therapy can help address the unique aspects of anxiety tied to these conditions.

Through tailored strategies, we’ll work on reducing overwhelm, managing triggers, and building self-compassion. For ADHD, this may involve developing routines and improving focus, while for Autism, we might focus on navigating social interactions and sensory stressors. Together, we’ll create a supportive environment where you can thrive, feel understood, and gain the tools to manage anxiety effectively.

I offer anxiety therapy for $310 per session. New clients join for weekly sessions and appreciate seeing the progress of meeting regularly within the first several sessions. We can discuss options during your free initial consultation.

Getting started is easy! Contact me to schedule your free consultation. I’m always open to meeting new clients and would love to help you take the next step in your healing journey.

Depression Therapy FAQs

Depression often presents as persistent feelings of sadness, emptiness, or hopelessness. You might notice changes in sleep, appetite, or energy levels. It can also affect your ability to focus, make decisions, or enjoy activities you once loved. If these feelings persist for weeks and interfere with your daily life, it’s a sign to seek professional help.

The best therapy depends on your individual needs. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is widely regarded as an effective treatment for depression, focusing on identifying and changing negative thought patterns. Other therapies, like Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) or mindfulness-based approaches, can also be helpful. A comprehensive evaluation with a therapist will determine the best approach for you. I also offer guided breathwork sessions to help move the “stuck” energy that depression often brings.

Absolutely. Therapy provides tools to manage and reduce symptoms of depression, improve emotional well-being, and enhance overall quality of life. Working with a trained therapist can help you uncover the root causes of your depression and develop strategies to overcome it, creating lasting change.

Here are five I regularly recommend my depressed clients experiment with.

  1. Mindfulness: staying present to reduce overwhelming feelings.
  2. Exercise: boosts mood by releasing endorphins.
  3. Connection: even if short in duration or depth, connecting with others helps keep depression at bay.
  4. Routine: get on consistent sleep and eating habits.
  5. Journaling: write down your thoughts to process emotions and gain clarity.

We’ll work together to see which coping skills actually work best for you.

Depression often feels like carrying an unbearable weight or living in a fog. You may experience persistent sadness, irritability, or numbness. It can sap your energy, motivation, and interest in activities, making even small tasks feel monumental. For those with ADHD or Autism, depression can stem from feeling different, misunderstood, or not fully valued.

Depression isn’t always a straight path, and people experience it differently. For some, it starts subtly—maybe feeling a little off or unmotivated. Over time, those feelings can grow heavier, turning into persistent sadness or apathy. You might notice yourself withdrawing from things you usually enjoy or feeling frustrated with yourself for not being able to “snap out of it.”

At its worst, depression can feel like a deep pit where hope seems completely out of reach. But it’s important to remember that this experience is not permanent. With the right support, you can move toward acceptance and healing. Therapy helps you understand these feelings and guides you toward strategies to regain your energy, hope, and a sense of agency in your life.

When depression feels overwhelming, practice your coping skills like journaling, breathwork, and exercise. Here are some more ideas for quick improvements during hard moments:

  • Reach out to a trusted friend, family member, or therapist. If you’re in a support group, call your sponsor or a peer.
  • Focus on small, achievable tasks to build momentum. Brush your teeth, make your bed, etc.
  • Take a long walk outside, preferably in the sun. Getting sun, fresh air, and exercise is a great boon for the spirits. Consider listening to a relaxing podcast or audiobook at the same time.
  • Whatever you do, avoid isolation. Drive to the park or walk around your downtown area among others.
  • If you feel unsafe or have thoughts of self-harm, contact a crisis line immediately. Call 988 or 911 right away.

At Atelier Therapy, depression therapy sessions cost $310 per 50-minute session. Services are available in person in Ann Arbor, MI, and online for residents of CA, CO, MI, and WI. Therapy is an investment in your well-being and can create profound, lasting benefits.

Getting started is easy! Contact me to schedule your free consultation. I’m always open to meeting new clients and would love to help you take the next step in your healing journey.

Breathwork FAQs

Breathwork is a practice that uses controlled breathing techniques to influence your mental, emotional, and physical state. It activates the nervous system, reduces stress, and promotes emotional release by increasing oxygen flow and awareness.

It’s possible. Breathwork can unlock suppressed emotions, and crying is a natural way to release them. This reaction is a sign of healing and self-expression. But there is no judgment here. I know that crying is a good thing, as it helps our nervous system release heavy emotional burdens.

Breathwork helps process and release stored emotional trauma by calming the nervous system and accessing deeper emotional layers. While not a standalone therapy, it can complement other trauma-healing practices.

Shaking during breathwork is often a physical release of pent-up energy or emotions stored in the body. It’s a natural response to letting go of tension and stress. While it can feel unusual at first, many clients come to accept and flow with their bodies’ natural responses. You are in control of your breath, so you can slow your breathing at any time if you’re uncomfortable. And I will be there to guide you the entire time.

During breathwork, controlled breathing patterns stimulate the body in several ways. For one, increased oxygen flow. Other ways include emotional release, nervous system regulation, and stress reduction. This can create a sense of relaxation and wellbeing.

The goal of breathwork is to promote self-awareness, reduce stress, and support emotional and physical healing. It fosters a deeper connection to yourself and a sense of inner balance. It can help you get out of your overthinking mind and back into your body. It’s remarkably effective.

Breathwork taps into the subconscious, where suppressed emotions are stored. By opening up these emotional layers, it allows for profound release, healing, and self-discovery.

I offer guided breathwork for $310 per session. New clients join for weekly sessions and appreciate seeing the progress of meeting regularly within the first several sessions. We can discuss options during the free initial consultation.

Getting started is easy! Contact me to schedule your free consultation. I’m always open to meeting new clients and would love to help you take the next step in your healing journey.