FAQs & Fees

What is a typical session like?

Like all psychotherapy, the specific content of each session depends on the work that is being done.  Generally, sessions may include traditional talk therapy, body awareness exercises, creative art therapies, mindfulness practices, guided meditations and relaxation exercises, communication exercises, and homework.

What is Buddhism, what is Buddhist Psychology, and do I have to be a Buddhist or have a meditation practice?

Buddhism can be described as a science of mind and is often complementary to other religious and spiritual traditions or no tradition at all. Buddha means "one who is awake" describing the state of being fully present to life, which is the goal of Buddhism and the result of mindfulness and loving kindness practices.  Being present is the willingness to be with what ever arises in the present moment.  You do not need to be Buddhist, have any specific religious or spiritual orientation, or meditation practice.  Unless you are interested in integrating or knowing more, typically the therapists don’t focus on Buddhism or even mindfulness practices.

You offer meditation through Windhorse Community, can I attend weekly meditation sessions and retreats if I am a client?

Yes, we encourage it. Meditation aides the work of psychotherapy. Developing a stronger awareness to be present, understand the process of the mind, hold the content of the mind in a non-judgmental way, and develop loving-kindness towards oneself and others aides the insight and growth that can happen in psychotherapy.

Is there anything I need to bring with me to the first session?  

Please fill out the New Client Information Form and the Informed Consent for the therapist your appointment is with.  Forms can be found here. Payment is expected at first session.

How long does therapy take?

It depends on the needs and goals you bring. If the goal is a return to previous functioning, short-term therapy may be sufficient. If the goal is working with more severe issues, or improvement in well-being and overall quality of life, longer-term therapy is indicated.

Do you work with people who currently reside outside of Maryland?

Yes, we do. Our practice is becoming increasingly national and international. When working with people who reside outside of Maryland permanently, we are considered coaches and therefore can not issue psychotherapy receipts. This is due to each state having their own licensing board. The content might be generally the same, but we don’t work with anyone who is an imminent threat to themselves or others in terms of suicidal or homicidal thoughts or behaviors. If those arise in the coaching work, we would find a local psychotherapist to work with you until those symptoms subside.

How much is therapy and do you take insurance?

Both therapists maintain their own fees and offer reduced fee sessions based on individual circumstances.  See each therapists about page for fees, Yeshe or Stephen. Payment is by cash, check, Venmo, Zelle, Credit Cards, HSA (Health Savings Accounts) cards or FSA (Flexible Spending Accounts) cards. We do not bill any insurance companies directly, but do issue receipts that you can submit for reimbursement if you reside in Maryland.  If you plan to use your insurance to reimburse you, we recommend you contact your insurer to verify coverage for "out of network mental health" benefits. Generally, insurance plans that are PPO (not HMO) cover "out of network mental health." Missed sessions or sessions cancelled under 24 hrs are charged at the agreed rate.