Everything You Might Want to Know First
Frequently Asked Questions
Having questions before starting therapy is completely normal, whether you're wondering what a first session looks like or just want to understand how we work before reaching out. We've tried to answer the most common questions here. If you don't see yours, reach out directly. We're happy to talk through anything that isn't covered below.
Getting Started
How do I know if therapy is right for me?
You don't need to be in crisis, or have a fully articulated problem, to reach out. Quiet exhaustion, a pattern you're tired of repeating, or simply wanting to understand yourself better are all reason enough. A free consultation is a low-pressure way to find out if this feels like a fit.
What happens in the first session?
We spend the first session or two getting to know your history and current goals at a pace that doesn't overwhelm your nervous system. There's no pressure to share more than you're ready to. We're building a foundation together, not rushing toward conclusions.
How do I schedule a consultation?
Reach out through our contact form, and we'll respond within one business day to set up a free 15-minute consultation. From there, we'll find a time for your first full appointment if it feels like a good fit.
What should I prepare before my first session?
Nothing specific. You don't need a fully organized history or a clear diagnosis in mind. Just come as you are, and we'll build the picture together at whatever pace feels manageable.
How long are sessions?
Standard individual sessions run 45 to 53 minutes. Some work, like EMDR or somatic processing, benefits from an extended 90-minute session. We'll talk through what fits your needs during your consultation.
How often do people come to therapy?
Most clients start with weekly sessions, though the right frequency depends on what you're working with. If you're facing a timeline or want more concentrated progress, we also offer intensive formats outside the standard weekly schedule.
Do you offer virtual sessions?
Yes. Attuned Healing Therapy Center is a fully virtual practice, serving clients across Virginia. All sessions happen online, wherever you are in the state.
What are your fees?
Fees vary by session type and length. Full details, including our Good Faith Estimate, are on our Fees & Insurance page. A free 15-minute consultation is always the first step, at no cost.
Do you accept insurance?
We're in-network with Anthem/BCBS, Aetna, Sentara, and UHC commercial plans, and we also welcome self-pay clients. Extended sessions and intensives are self-pay, with a superbill available for potential out-of-network reimbursement.
How long does therapy take?
There's no fixed timeline. Some clients see meaningful shifts within months; others engage in longer-term work. We'll discuss a realistic timeline together as we go, based on what you're working with and how you want to move.
What approach do you use?
We use an integrative approach drawing on trauma-focused, EMDR, somatic, and relational and attachment-based methods, tailored to what you need rather than delivered as a single fixed protocol.
Is everything I say confidential?
Yes. What you share is confidential in accordance with Virginia licensing standards and HIPAA, with the standard legal exceptions that apply to all licensed therapists, such as risk of harm to yourself or others.
What if I don't know what to talk about?
That's completely normal, and it doesn't mean you're not ready. We don't expect you to arrive with a plan. Part of the work is figuring that out together, at whatever pace feels right.
Helpful Articles
If You Need Support Right Now
Crisis & Safety Resources
Suicide Prevention Lifeline Free, confidential support, available 24/7. If you or someone you know is in crisis, call or text 988, or reach the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (1-800-273-8255).
LGBTQIA+ Support The Trevor Project provides crisis intervention and suicide prevention services for LGBTQIA+ youth. Call 1-866-488-7386 or text START to 678678.
Community Grief Resources Grief can be overwhelming. The Grief Recovery Institute offers resources and support for those navigating loss. Visit griefrecoverymethod.com for more information.
Sexual Violence Resources For those affected by sexual violence, the National Sexual Assault Hotline offers confidential support at 1-800-656-HOPE (1-800-656-4673).


Tools to Explore Between Sessions
Supportive Resources
- Guided meditations from Kristine — a short library of meditations on Insight Timer to explore between sessions.
Listen on Insight Timer →
- Self-compassion practices — free guided exercises from Dr. Kristin Neff, a leading researcher on self-compassion.
Explore the practices →
- What's your attachment style? — a short quiz to help you reflect on your own patterns.
Take the quiz →
- Checking in on burnout — a brief self-assessment to help you notice where you're at.
Take the assessment →
- What is EMDR?
Watch the video →
- What is somatic experiencing?
Watch the video →
Didn't Find Your Answer?
Still Have Questions?
If your question isn't answered here, we'd love to hear from you directly. A free 15-minute consultation is a low-pressure way to ask anything on your mind, with no forms to fill out and no commitment either way.

