FAQ

Clear answers before you book.

Practical details on consultations, insurance, private pay, telehealth, faith-integrated care, and what to expect in counseling.

Getting started

Before your first appointment

What happens in the free 15-minute consultation?

You meet a clinician briefly to share what is going on, ask questions, and learn whether we are a good fit. We also outline next steps for intake paperwork, insurance verification through Headway (when applicable), and scheduling a full session.

How do I book an appointment?

Start with a free consultation, or book directly with Peter or Francy from the About page. If you plan to use insurance, Headway typically verifies benefits during booking so you can see an estimated cost before your first session.

Who do you work with?

We primarily counsel adults. Care includes individual counseling, couples counseling, and Christian counseling, with both in-person and telehealth options for Massachusetts clients.

How quickly can I start?

Availability changes week to week. The consultation is the fastest way to confirm openings, clinician fit, and whether in-person or telehealth works better for you right now.

Insurance & payment

What care will cost

Do you take insurance?

Yes. We work with many major plans through Headway, which helps verify benefits and estimate your session cost before you start. Accepted plans can vary by clinician. See the full list and setup steps on our Insurance & Payment page.

How does Headway work?

When you book through Headway, you share your insurance details, Headway checks benefits, and you usually see an estimated cost before the first session. Headway also helps with billing and payment setup so paperwork stays clearer.

Can I pay privately instead of using insurance?

Yes. Private-pay sessions are available if you prefer not to use insurance or your plan is out of network. We can also discuss superbills for out-of-network reimbursement when applicable.

What is the private-pay fee?

Private-pay sessions are $125 per session. If you have questions about fees, payment setup, or superbills, ask during your free consultation.

Will I know my cost before the first session?

Whenever possible, yes—especially when booking through Headway. Your final cost still depends on your plan’s deductible, copay, or coinsurance. We encourage verifying benefits before your first appointment.

Sessions & format

What counseling looks like here

Do you offer in-person and telehealth?

Yes. You can meet in person at our Marlborough office or connect securely online for statewide Massachusetts telehealth. Many clients mix both depending on the week.

Is telehealth as effective as in-person?

For many concerns—anxiety, depression, grief, relational issues, and life transitions—research shows video therapy can be equally effective. The better fit is the format that helps you show up consistently.

Is telehealth HIPAA-compliant?

Yes. We use secure platforms designed for healthcare. For the best session, use a private space, headphones if helpful, and a stable internet connection.

How long are sessions, and how often do we meet?

Sessions are typically about 45–50 minutes. Weekly or biweekly is common at the start; we adjust pacing as goals become clearer and progress settles in.

What approaches do you use?

Care is collaborative and evidence-based. Clinicians commonly draw from CBT and related approaches, tailored to anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, burnout, relationship patterns, and life transitions—never a one-size-fits-all script.

Faith & approach

Christian counseling, without pressure

Do I have to want faith integrated into counseling?

No. Faith integration is optional and paced by you. Some clients want Scripture-informed language and spiritual formation; others prefer a primarily clinical frame. Both are welcome.

What if I am unsure about my faith or have doubts?

You do not need perfect certainty to begin. We can work respectfully with doubt, questions, spiritual complexity, and seasons where belief feels unsettled.

Do I need to be a certain denomination?

No. We work with clients from a range of Christian backgrounds and tailor the conversation to your beliefs, comfort level, and goals.

Privacy & practical

What to expect behind the scenes

Is what I share confidential?

Yes. Counseling is confidential within the legal and ethical limits of Massachusetts practice. Your clinician will explain confidentiality, exceptions, and your rights during intake.

What if I need to cancel or reschedule?

Life happens. Please give as much notice as you can so we can offer the time to someone else. Specific cancellation timing is covered in your intake paperwork.

What should I bring to the first session?

Bring your questions, a sense of what you want help with, and any insurance details if you have not finished Headway setup. You do not need a perfect story—just an honest starting place.

Where are you located?

In-person sessions are in Marlborough, Massachusetts. Telehealth is available to clients located in Massachusetts. Visit Contact for address and hours details.

Still unsure?

Talk it through in a free consultation.

Fifteen minutes is often enough to clarify fit, format, and next steps—without pressure to commit.