FAQs
How do I know you are the right therapist for me?
What a wonderful question to ask! The relationship between and client and counselor is of the utmost importance, and cannot be taken lightly. I offer a free 15-minute consultation so you can ask any questions you might have, and we can determine if my skills are the right fit for your needs. Some clients feel connected right away, but it usually takes some time to know for sure. You may even start therapy and then decide another modality or counselor may be better for you. Either way, it is important to trust your own inner sense of safety and comfort.
What are your rates?
My rate for individual sessions is $125, and $150 for couples’ sessions. Each session is 45-50 minutes long, though our first session will last about 75 minutes and be charged at a slightly higher rate.
Why are sessions only 50 minutes long, and not an hour?
Most therapists use the "therapist hour" which is 45-50 minutes long. This helps keep client and counselor on track, and allows us to explore sometimes painful topics while knowing that it won't last forever. It also gives the therapist time to take notes and get a glass of water in between sessions.
Do you accept insurance?
At this time, I do not accept insurance.
What can I expect from the process of couples therapy?
I follow the structure of the Gottman Method for couples therapy. Before the start of actual interventions, this method recommends an assessment period of 4 sessions. Though these sessions do not involve actual interventions, the process of assessment can also have a therapeutic effect. The first session will be 75 minutes long and consist of questions which allow me to get to know your history as a couple. You will both then receive an assessment to complete from the Gottman website, which takes about an hour to complete. Then we will schedule two appointments to learn more about each member of the couple individually. Finally, we will meet again to discuss the results of the assessment and determine a plan for treatment. It sounds like a long process, but research (and my own experience) has shown that it saves time in the long run, and helps to focus our efforts on the areas of your relationship that need the most support.
How long does therapy take?
It is daunting to start a process without knowing how long it will last. There is no set limit for how many sessions you will attend; however, we will regularly work together to evaluate your progress towards your goals and decide if it is time to change the frequency of our meetings.
What if I want to stop coming to therapy?
You are always in control of whether or not to continue sessions. I do request that we meet for a termination session to discuss your departure, and I can provide you with referrals and resources to continue your journey.
How do I cancel a scheduled session?
It is helpful to cancel a scheduled session at least 24 hours ahead of time. You can send me a message through text or email to cancel. There is a charge for late cancellations, though exceptional circumstances are always taken into consideration.
What if I was referred by someone who is currently your client? Will you talk to them about me?
Confidentiality is the crux of the counseling profession. I will never share that you are my client without written permission from you, or only in legally required circumstances.
How do I schedule an appointment?
You can email me at snehal@mettacounselingtx.com to schedule an appointment. I recommend that we schedule a free 15-minute consultation so you can gauge your comfort level with me, and we can determine if my skills and experience are the right fit for your needs.
How does change happen?
I believe that change occurs when we feel safe enough to deal with what happens next. I have worked to learn ways to create that safety, and work with my client to explore what that means for them.
What is Metta?
Metta is a word in the Pali language which loosely translates to mean great goodwill, or boundless friendliness. An oft-used translation is “loving-kindness”. The practice of metta is well known in the Buddhist tradition, and involves phrases which are meant to open the heart and invoke feelings of compassion and goodwill towards oneself and others. Though I do not identify as a Buddhist, this practice has always resonated deeply with me, and I aim to carry it with me in my work as well. I leave you with these words.
