Take your first step for better mental health
“I believe that a different therapy must be constructed for each patient because each has a unique story”.
Irvin D. Yalom
Svetlana Danshes, MS LGPC
Areas I can help you with
- Depression
- Grief
- Major life transitions
- PTSD
- Communication
- Stress
- Relationship
- Anxiety
How We Can Work Together
Schedule an initial Consultation
Select the right service
Create a Custom Action Plan
My Services
Individual Therapy
Individual therapy is a therapeutic process where an individual meets one-on-one with a trained mental health professional to explore and address various personal challenges, emotional difficulties, or mental health concerns. The goal of individual therapy is to provide a safe and confidential space for individuals to gain insight, develop coping strategies, and work towards positive change in their lives. Individual therapy is a versatile intervention that can address a wide range of concerns, including anxiety, depression, relationship issues, trauma, grief, and personal development. The frequency and duration of sessions vary based on the individual’s needs and therapeutic goals. The goal of individual therapy is to support individuals in achieving greater self-awareness, emotional well-being, and improved life functioning.
Learn MoreCouples Therapy
Learn MoreCouples therapy involves a collaborative and non-biased approach where both partners work together with the therapist to address issues within the relationship. The goal of couples therapy is to help partners gain insight into their relationship dynamics, improve communication, resolve conflicts, and strengthen their bond. Couples therapy involves a collaborative and non-biased approach where both partners work together with the therapist to address issues within the relationship. The therapist serves as a neutral third party. While couples therapy primarily focuses on the relationship, therapists may also explore individual concerns that could impact the relationship. This may involve addressing personal stressors or mental health issues. Couples therapy is not solely for addressing crises; it can also be a proactive measure to strengthen a healthy relationship, prevent potential issues, and promote long-term relationship satisfaction.
Family Therapy
Family therapy is a form of psychotherapy that involves working with family members to improve communication, resolve conflicts, and enhance overall family functioning. The primary focus of family therapy is to understand and address the dynamics withing the family system, considering how each member’s behavior and interactions contribute to the overall patterns of the family. Family therapy operates from a systemic perspective, viewing the family as a complex system of interconnected individuals. The focus is on how each family member’s thoughts, feelings, and behaviors influence and are influenced by the family as a whole. Family therapy involves the active participation of multiple family members. It is a collaborative process where all members contribute to discussions, problem-solving, and goal setting. The therapist facilitates open communication and mutual understanding.
Learn MoreThe greatest discovery of my generation is that a human being can alter his life by altering his attitudes of mind.
Frequently Asked Questions
Therapist is a broad term that encompasses professionals who provide therapy or counseling
services to individuals, couples, families, or groups. Therapist can have various educational
backgrounds, including social work, counseling, marriage and family therapy, or psychology. A
therapist must hold a Master’s degree in Counseling (MA or MS), Social Work (MSW) or other
relevant degrees. Therapists primarily focus on helping individuals cope with emotional and
psychological challenges, improve relationships, and develop coping skills.
Psychologists are professionals who study and apply the science of behavior and mental
process. They may work in various settings, including research, teaching, and consulting.
Psychologists typically hold a doctoral degree (Ph.D. or Psy.D.) in psychology. Psychologists can
work with a diverse range of psychological issues, conduct psychological assessments, and
provide interventions for various mental health concerns.
Psychiatrists are medical doctors specializing in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of
mental illnesses. They can prescribe medication and provide a medical perspective on mental
health. Psychiatrists hold a medical degree (M.D.) and complete specialized training in
psychiatry. They undergo medical residency and often pursue additional training in psychiatric
subspecialties. While psychiatrists may provide psychotherapy, their primary focus is on the
medical aspects of mental health. They prescribe and mange medications to address psychiatric
symptoms. Psychiatrists often work with individuals who have severe mental health conditions
such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, or major depressive disorder. They may collaborate with
therapists to provide comprehensive care.
Psychotherapy can be beneficial for individuals experiencing a wide range of challenges, and there is no
specific threshold that determines when someone should undergo therapy. The decision to seek
psychotherapy is highly individual and can depend on various factors. Some common reasons and
situations in which individuals might consider therapy include:
Mental Health Concerns
Symptoms of mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, obsessive compulsive
disorder (OCD), post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) or other mood disorders.
Life Transitions
Major life changes, such as divorce, loss of a loved one, job loss, relocation, retirement, or
immigration, can be challenging. Psychotherapy can help navigate the associated emotional
difficulties.
Relationship Issues
Couples or individuals facing relationship challenges, communication breakdowns, or difficulty
forming and maintaining healthy relationships.
Stress Management
High level of stress whether related to work, family, or personal circumstances that lead to
physical and emotional strain. Psychotherapy can offer coping strategies and stress
management techniques.
Trauma and Abuse
Individuals who have experienced trauma, abuse, or adverse life events may find healing and
support through therapy.
Addiction and Substance Abuse
Psychotherapy is an integral part of treatment for individuals struggling with addiction or
substance abuse. It helps address underlying issues, develop coping skills, and prevent relapse.
Self-Exploration and Personal Growth
Some individuals seek therapy for personal development, self-exploration, and gain better
understanding of themselves.
Identity and Cultural Issues
Individuals exploring questions of identity, sexuality, gender, or cultural identity may find
psychotherapy supportive in navigating these aspects of their lives.
Whether your insurance covers therapy depends on several factors, including the type of
insurance plan you have, the specific mental health services you are seeking, and the qualifications
of the therapist. Review your insurance policy, look for information on mental health coverage,
identify the specific mental health included in your insurance plan, this may include the number of
sessions covered, copayments, or any limitations or exclusions. If you have an FSA or HAS (Flexible
Spending Accounts), check if therapy services are eligible for reimbursement.
We accept Carefirst Blue Cross Blue Shield insurance plan. Insurance generally covers the cost of mental health counseling outside of the client’s copay once the annual deductible has been met. Please call the 800 number on the back of your card to find out whether you have met your deductible for the year and what your copay is for mental health counseling.
We are also happy to provide super bills for reimbursement for clients that are out of network or simply wish to not use insurance.
Our Rates
Individual Therapy - $200/ 60 minute session
Couples Therapy - $200/ 60 minute session
Family Therapy - $200/ 60 minute session
The first therapy session, often referred to as the intake or initial assessment, is a crucial step in the
therapeutic process. At the beginning of your first session the therapist will greet you, make you feel
comfortable and explain the principles of confidentiality, insuring you understand the limits and
expectations, and explain their role, the therapeutic process, and your rights as a client. You will be
asked to provide some background information, such a personal history, family dynamics, current
challenges, and relevant life events. The therapist will explore the reasons you have decided to seek
therapy, and ask about your expectations, including what you hope to achieve and any concerns you
might have. The therapist may conduct a basic mental health assessment, and briefly explain their
therapeutic approach. Together with the therapist, you will start to identify specific goals that will
guide the focus of future sessions and help measure progress over time.
Therapy offers a wide range of potential benefits for individuals seeking support and growth. While
the specific outcomes of therapy can vary depending on the individual’s needs and goals, some
common benefits include:
Increased self-awareness: Through self-reflection and exploration, you can gain insight into your
thoughts, emotions, behaviors, and patterns of relating to others.
Improved coping skills: You will learn healthier ways of coping with challenges rather than relying
on unhealthy coping mechanisms.
Enhanced relationships: You will learn how to express yourself assertively, listen actively, and build
healthier connections with others.
Emotional healing: You will work through difficult emotions, gain perspective, and find relief from
emotional distress.
Increased self-esteem: You will learn to recognize and appreciate your strengths, accomplishments,
and inherent worth.
Behavioral change: You will develop healthier habits, make positive changes in your life, and work
toward achieving your goals.
Stress Reduction: You will learn mindfulness, meditation, and stress management techniques to
help you cope with daily stressors more effectively.
Improved mental health: You will experience reduced symptoms of anxiety, depression, or other
mental health conditions, and develop resilience and the ability to thrive in life.
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