Questions about therapy
Reaching out is often the hardest part. Here are answers to the questions people ask most. If yours isn't here, I'm always glad to talk.
How do I get started?
Just reach out by phone at 313.408.2180 or by email at mbgarvey@hotmail.com. I usually return calls within 24 hours.
We can begin with a free 15-minute phone consultation, where you can ask questions and get a sense of whether we're a good fit.
Every inquiry is kept completely confidential. You don't need to have the right words or know exactly what you want. We can figure that out together.
What happens in the first session?
Our first session is a chance to get to know each other. We'll talk about your "why": what brought you to therapy right now and the challenges you're facing. I'll ask about your personal and family history, and we'll begin to set some initial goals. Those goals are just a starting point, and they can change as we go.
We'll also go over the practical details, like office policies and scheduling.
You don't have to share everything, find exactly the right words for how you're feeling, or have clear answers to every question. We'll go at a pace that feels right for you.
The first session is also your chance to see whether I'm the right fit. That comes down to whether you feel safe, heard, and respected.
How long are sessions, and how often will we meet?
Sessions are 45 minutes and usually happen once a week. In our first meeting, we'll talk about the rhythm that feels right for you.
How long does therapy take?
That depends on what you'd like from our work together. Some people come for focused support with a particular challenge. Others want to understand and change deeper, long-standing patterns, which takes more time. Your goals guide the pace, and we'll check in along the way.
What does therapy cost?
The fee is $175 per session, paid at the time of your appointment. I accept cash, check, or Venmo.
Do you take insurance?
I'm not in-network with insurance plans, but many plans reimburse part of the cost of seeing an out-of-network therapist. I'm happy to give you a detailed monthly statement you can submit to your insurance company.
If you're not sure what your plan covers, it can help to call your insurance company and ask about your out-of-network mental health benefits.
How do I know if you're the right therapist for me?
Feeling safe and comfortable with your therapist matters more than almost anything else. A strong relationship, built on trust and real connection, is the foundation everything else rests on.
In our first few sessions, I'll get to know you and your life, and you'll get a sense of how I work. Together, we'll decide whether we're a good fit. If you have questions before you schedule, please ask. I'm happy to talk.
Still have questions?
Reach out anytime to ask a question or schedule a free 15-minute phone consultation. Calls are usually returned within 24 hours, and every inquiry is kept confidential.