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What you can expect

Sessions are typically 55-60 minutes long and are held via my video platform. I bring a warm and engaged presence to the therapeutic relationship, rather than having a neutral or “blank slate” approach. My aim is to meet you where you are in the present moment, in whatever ways you need to show up from session to session. I strive to foster an environment of safety and openness, within which we can explore and make sense of your experiences and help you connect with your deepest self.

If you have questions before booking your first session, please get in touch and we can discuss in more detail.

FAQ in a thought bubble
  • This work is done at your pace with respect to your needs, values, and goals for treatment. Your feedback is always encouraged and is an important part of our process. I approach this work with curiosity and compassion. I will work to create a safe and trusting therapeutic environment that will allow you the space to explore your internal and external experiences through an affirming, non-judgmental, and non-pathologizing lens. We can meet once a week or once a month, or anywhere in between depending on your needs.

  • This is unique to each client. Therapy can last from months to years, depending on depth of focus and support needs. I will work to create open communication with you about what you need from the work we do together, and to support you in making adjustments as needed.

  • My session fee is $125 for 55-60 minutes. If using insurance, you will be responsible for your copay, coinsurance, or deductible at the time of the service, and I will bill your insurance carrier for the remainder of the cost. Your credit card information will be collected prior to scheduling services and will be stored securely for the duration of your treatment.

  • I am able to accept Highmark/BCBS and UPMC commercial insurance (not UPMC for You or UPMC for Life at this time). This section will be updated if/when I can accept additional insurances. Please check with your carrier to ensure that my services are included in your specific plan.

  • I am holding all sessions online via video (telehealth). This allows for increased accessibility for folks who do not live within close proximity to the city of Pittsburgh, and for folks who are immunocompromised or at high risk for health concerns, as we continue to navigate the effects of the pandemic and other community health risks. I understand that telehealth is not ideal or accessible for all clients. If this is the case for you, please feel free to contact me to ask about other referrals who can better meet your needs.

  • Request a free consultation or send me a message via the Contact form, or email me at kate [at] kvscounseling.com. I’ll be in touch within two business days and we can set up a time to meet!

  • If you are experiencing a crisis outside of session, you may call 988 (the Suicide and Crisis Helpline), text 741-741 (the Crisis Text Line), or visit 988lifeline.org for more resources. You can also go to the emergency room most accessible to you for immediate support.

    During our sessions, we can work together to identify strategies, people, and other resources to help you get or stay safe when overwhelming or scary feelings emerge.

    Please check out the Resources page for additional support options that do not involve the police or hospitalization, including warm lines, online support groups, and safety planning tools.

Good Faith Estimate
(for private pay clients)

You have the right to receive a “Good Faith Estimate” explaining how much your medical care will cost.

Under the law, health care providers need to give patients who don’t have insurance or who are not using insurance an estimate of the bill for medical items and services.

  • You have the right to receive a Good Faith Estimate for the total expected cost of any non-emergency items or services. This includes related costs like medical tests, prescription drugs, equipment, and hospital fees.

  • Make sure your health care provider gives you a Good Faith Estimate in writing at least 1 business day before your medical service or item. You can also ask your health care provider, and any other provider you choose, for a Good Faith Estimate before you schedule an item or service.

  • If you receive a bill that is at least $400 more than your Good Faith Estimate, you can dispute the bill.

  • Make sure to save a copy or picture of your Good Faith Estimate. For questions or more information about your right to a Good Faith Estimate, visit www.cms.gov/nosurprises or call 800-985-3059.