Don’t be afraid to ask
All the basics are covered below, like how to schedule an appointment and how to pay for it. You also might be curious about what we’ll discuss, how you’ll know if it’s “working,” and if you’ll need medication. Maybe you’re wondering why you should talk to an actual person when your online therapy app is working just fine (it’s not). Or you’re worried about confidentiality. Don’t see what you’re looking for below? Send me a note.
And I bet that you’re wondering how to pronounce my name, right? It’s “mar-REE-kah.”
CAN THERAPY REALLY HELP ME?
Yes. Let me say that again. YES. But like anything, you only get out of it what you put into it. If you’re reading this, my guess is that you already realize that your way of doing things isn’t working anymore. We can work on that.
can i follow self-help advice on social media?
Social media is an amazing tool for many things, but not for mental health. While it may be tempting to scroll through free advice online, it’s a one way street in which you have no voice. You are an individual that deserves human connection. By working with a trained provider in person, not only will you have the opportunity to be heard, the guidance you receive is tailored specifically to you and your situation.
WHAT WILL WE TALK ABOUT?
Everything. But don’t get overwhelmed by that. Your job is to show up and be open. My job is to give you a safe, consistent place to do that. Together we’ll unravel whatever is troubling you.
WILL I HAVE TO TAKE MEDICATION?
It is sometimes said in psychiatry that medication allows you to do the therapeutic work. Medication may or may not be one of the tools that could be useful for you.
HOW LONG UNTIL I FEEL BETTER?
Reaching out for the first time — or the tenth time — is an enormous relief in and of itself. And while I can’t tell you that you’ll feel better in 3 weeks or 3 months, I can tell you that if you are open to doing the work, you will be 100% supported along the way.
IS EVERYTHING I SAY CONFIDENTIAL?
Absolutely. I am required by law to keep our conversations confidential. However, as a mandated reporter, I am also required by law to report any harm being done to you, or by you to someone else.
DO YOU WORK WITH ADDICTION?
We are all addicted to something — coffee, shopping, adrenaline, drugs, social media, etc. Sometimes these addictions are more harmful than others, and yes, I can work with you on yours. Think you might be smoking too much weed? Click here.
DO YOU DO COUPLES THERAPY?
No, but I can refer you and assist with finding a good fit.
DO YOU WORK WITH KIDS?
Yes, on a case by case basis and usually upon referral. I refer all youth to therapy and encourage caregivers to be in therapy as well.
CAN I REFER A FRIEND OR FAMILY MEMBER?
If you are a patient, my work with you is my priority. If you have a close friend or family member in need, I will suggest that you refer them to another provider so that there is no conflict with the work we are doing together. However, if you are not working with me and you’ve found this page out of concern for someone else, then I encourage you to forward them this website. They are most welcome to contact me directly.
WHERE DO YOU SEE CLIENTS?
I see clients at my private practice in Anchorage at The Emerald Building, 615 E 82nd Ave, Suite 103.
I offer telehealth appointments on a case by case basis for established patients.
HOW DO I SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT?
Admitting you need help is hard. Setting up an appointment shouldn’t be. To initiate the process, please get in touch.
What if I need my medication refilled?
Please contact your pharmacy. They will send a refill request. Allow up to three business days for refills to be processed. Please be mindful that requests made after Thursday afternoon may not be processed until the following Monday.
HOW LONG ARE APPOINTMENTS?
The initial evaluation — which takes place during your first visit — will be 60 minutes. If we need more time for this, we may continue over the first few sessions. After that, appointments for medication management are scheduled for 25 minutes. You will always have time to ask questions and get more clarity.
CAN WE TALK OVER THE PHONE OR ONLINE?
I believe in human connection, and as a Nurse Practitioner, I need to physically assess patients — particularly when prescribing medications. At this time I am only taking in-person appointments.
HOW MUCH WILL THIS COST?
If you are insured, you’ll want to contact your provider directly to see what is covered and if you will have any out-of-pocket costs. You’ll see which providers I am in-network with below. If my services are not covered by your insurance provider, or if you do not have insurance, please contact me directly to discuss costs and payment options.
DO YOU TAKE INSURANCE?
I accept most major insurances, including: Premera Blue Cross Blue Shield, Federal Blue Cross Blue Shield, and Aetna. Several insurances fall under these larger umbrellas. It is best to contact your insurance company to determine if I am in-network.
I accept Medicaid on a limited basis.
I am not able to accept Medicare.
CAN I PAY IN CASH?
Yes. If you don’t have insurance, or would rather not submit to your insurance, you can pay in cash.