Thrive With Helena

Frequently Asked Questions

Questions I hear most often.

Starting counseling can feel like a big step. These answers are here to make it a little easier. If you don't see your question, reach out — I'm happy to talk it through.

Getting Started4 questions

Starting counseling

  • If you're feeling overwhelmed, stuck, anxious, or just not like yourself — counseling can help. You don't need to be in crisis to benefit. Many people come to therapy to work through everyday stress, life transitions, relationship challenges, or simply to have a dedicated space to process their thoughts.

    The best way to find out is to have a conversation. I offer a free initial consultation so you can ask questions and get a feel for whether this is the right fit — no commitment required.

  • The first session is a conversation, not an evaluation. I'll ask about what brought you in, what's been going on in your life, and what you're hoping to get out of counseling. There's no pressure to share everything at once — we move at your pace.

    Think of the first session as a chance for us to get to know each other and decide together whether working together makes sense.
  • Yes. I offer a free initial consultation — typically 15–20 minutes by phone or video — where you can share what's on your mind, ask any questions, and get a sense of my approach. There's no obligation to schedule a full session afterward.

  • Yes, I am currently accepting new clients at both my Jefferson and La Place locations. Reach out through the contact page and I'll follow up within one business day to discuss availability and next steps.

Sessions4 questions

What sessions look like

  • Standard sessions are 50 minutes. Most clients start with weekly sessions, which helps build momentum and consistency early on. As you make progress, we may shift to every other week or monthly check-ins — whatever fits your needs and goals.

  • Yes. I offer both in-person and telehealth sessions. Telehealth sessions are conducted via a secure, HIPAA-compliant video platform. Many clients appreciate the flexibility of being able to meet from home, especially when schedules are tight or travel is difficult.

    You can indicate your preference when you reach out, and we can discuss what works best for you.

  • I practice at two locations in the greater New Orleans area:

    Jefferson Office — 240 Iris Ave, Jefferson, LA 70121
    La Place Office — 560 Belle Terre Blvd, La Place, LA 70068

    When you reach out, let me know which location is more convenient and I'll do my best to accommodate you there.

  • Life happens. I ask for at least 24 hours' notice if you need to cancel or reschedule. Late cancellations or no-shows may be subject to a fee, which we'll discuss during our initial consultation. My goal is to keep your schedule flexible while also respecting both of our time.

My Approach3 questions

How I work

  • My approach is person-centered and collaborative — meaning I tailor the work to you, not the other way around. I draw on several evidence-based modalities depending on what you're working through:

    Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) — identifying and shifting unhelpful thought patterns

    Motivational Interviewing (MI) — building your own motivation for change

    Emotional Regulation Strategies — developing tools to manage intense feelings

    Psychoeducation — understanding how your mind and body respond to stress

    I believe healing happens through connection, accountability, and learning healthier ways to navigate emotions.

  • Yes. I work with adults and teens across a wide range of concerns, including anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, addiction and recovery, career transitions, and relationship challenges. You can see the full list of specialty areas on the Services page.

  • Yes. I work with teens and adolescents navigating academic pressure, peer dynamics, identity, family changes, and emotional challenges. I provide a safe, non-judgmental space where young people can talk openly and build the emotional tools they need to thrive.

    For minors, a parent or guardian will be involved in the intake process, and we'll discuss confidentiality boundaries together at the start.

Fees & Insurance3 questions

Costs and coverage

  • Session fees vary depending on the type and length of service. I'm happy to discuss current rates during our free initial consultation. I also offer a sliding scale fee for clients who demonstrate financial need — please don't let cost be a barrier to reaching out.

  • Please contact me directly to discuss insurance and payment options. I can provide a superbill (an itemized receipt) that you may be able to submit to your insurance company for out-of-network reimbursement, depending on your plan.

    I recommend calling the member services number on the back of your insurance card and asking about your out-of-network mental health benefits before your first session.
  • I accept major credit and debit cards, HSA/FSA cards, and cash. Payment is typically collected at the time of service. If you have questions about payment arrangements, just ask — I'm happy to work with you.

Privacy & Confidentiality3 questions

Your privacy

  • Yes. Everything shared in session is strictly confidential. I am bound by professional and legal standards of confidentiality, and your information is never shared with third parties without your written consent.

    There are a small number of legal exceptions — such as if there is an imminent risk of harm to yourself or others, or if a court orders disclosure. I'll explain these clearly during our first session so there are no surprises.

  • Yes. All telehealth sessions are conducted through a HIPAA-compliant, encrypted video platform. I recommend finding a private, quiet space for your session where you won't be overheard — and using headphones if possible.

  • No. Your participation in counseling is completely private. I will not confirm or deny that you are a client to anyone — including family members — without your explicit written consent. Your decision to seek support is yours alone.

Don't see your question here? Send me a message and I'll get back to you within one business day.

Get in Touch
Ready to Start

Take the first step.

Reaching out is the hardest part. I'll follow up within one business day — personally, not from an automated system.

What to Expect

Your first steps with me

  • Free consultation — a 15–20 min call to talk through your needs.
  • No pressure — you decide if it feels right before committing.
  • Personal reply — I respond to every message myself, within one business day.
  • Flexible format — in-person at Jefferson or La Place, or telehealth.

Locations

240 Iris Ave, Jefferson, LA 70121
560 Belle Terre Blvd, La Place, LA 70068

Thrive With Helena

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