Frequently Asked Questions
Questions You May Have Before Starting Counseling
Starting therapy can feel unfamiliar. These are some of the questions I hear most often from new clients. If you don't see your question here, I'm happy to answer it before your first appointment.
Getting Started
I've never been to counseling before. Is that okay?
Absolutely. Many of my clients are attending counseling for the first time. You do not need to know what to say or have everything figured out before your first appointment. We'll begin by talking about what brought you in, what you hope will improve, and what approach makes the most sense for your situation.
What if I don't know what to talk about?
That's more common than you might think. Some people arrive with one specific concern, while others simply know something doesn't feel right. We can work together to identify patterns, goals, and the areas that deserve attention. You don't have to arrive with a perfect explanation.
How long are sessions?
Most appointments are approximately 53–60 minutes. Initial appointments may be a little longer so we can review your history, discuss your goals, and answer your questions. Extended EMDR appointments may also be available when clinically appropriate.
Is online counseling really effective?
For many people, yes. Research has shown that telehealth can be an effective way to provide mental health treatment for many concerns. It also makes counseling easier to fit into busy schedules while allowing you to participate from a private location anywhere in Oklahoma.
Privacy, Insurance & Fit
Is counseling confidential?
Yes. Confidentiality is one of the most important parts of counseling. In most situations, what you discuss in therapy stays private. Like all licensed mental health professionals, I follow Oklahoma law regarding confidentiality. There are limited legal exceptions, such as immediate risk of serious harm or certain forms of abuse that must be reported. These limits are reviewed during informed consent.
Can I use insurance?
Likens Counseling currently accepts Blue Cross Blue Shield of Oklahoma and Optum / UnitedHealthcare. Private pay is also available for clients who prefer not to use insurance or who are not covered by an accepted plan. Benefits, fees, and policies are reviewed before or during intake.
What if I'm a first responder?
First responders are welcome here. I provide counseling for law enforcement, fire, EMS, dispatch, corrections, military members, veterans, and their families. My work is informed by specialized first responder counseling credentials, EMDR training, and my role as the Wellness Clinician for the Bartlesville Police Department.
What if I don't have PTSD?
You do not need a PTSD diagnosis to benefit from counseling. Many people seek therapy for stress, anxiety, burnout, grief, relationship strain, life transitions, or the cumulative effect of carrying responsibility for a long time. Counseling can be helpful before things become a crisis.
What if I cry or get emotional?
That is okay. Therapy is a place where you do not have to manage everyone else's comfort. Some people cry, some people do not, and some people are surprised by what comes up. There is no "right" way to be in counseling.
How often will we meet?
Frequency depends on your needs, goals, schedule, and clinical situation. Many clients begin with weekly or every-other-week appointments. We will discuss what makes sense for you and adjust as needed.
How do I know if counseling is working?
Progress can look different for each person. It may include fewer symptoms, better sleep, improved relationships, more emotional control, less avoidance, better coping, or feeling more like yourself again. We will periodically review your goals and discuss whether therapy is helping.
What happens after I request an appointment?
After you submit a request, I will review your information and follow up with next steps. If counseling appears to be a good fit, we will schedule an intake appointment, review paperwork, discuss fees or insurance, and begin identifying your goals for treatment.
Still Unsure?
You don't have to know exactly what you need before reaching out.
Many people start counseling with only a general sense that something needs to change. That is enough. We can begin with where you are and decide together what support makes sense.