How much does therapy cost in Virginia Beach and do you take insurance?

Sessions with me are $195, and the initial diagnostic assessment is $235. Times Like These Counseling & Consulting is in-network with Aetna, Anthem Blue Cross & Blue Shield, Optum, Tricare & United. I accept EAP referrals as well. If you're out of network, you pay at the time of service, and I give you a superbill — an itemized receipt with the diagnosis and procedure codes your insurer needs — which you submit for partial reimbursement. HSA and FSA cards work here.

Do you offer online therapy in Virginia?

Yes. I see clients by secure video through SimplePractice, which is HIPAA-compliant, anywhere in Virginia — Richmond, Roanoke, NOVA, the Eastern Shore. I'm licensed in Virginia only, so you need to be physically located in the state during the session. I also see clients in person at 316 Office Square Lane in Virginia Beach.

I tried therapy before and it didn't do anything. Why would this be different?

Usually one of three things went wrong: it was open-ended talking with no target, the therapist was conflict-avoidant and never challenged you, or the fit was bad and nobody said so. I run sessions with a defined problem and a way to tell whether it's moving. If we're eight sessions in and nothing's changed, I'll say that out loud and we'll either change the approach or I'll refer you to someone better suited. Staying in ineffective therapy is worse than not going.

Do I have to be religious to work with you?

No. I offer faith-based counseling for men who want their faith integrated into the work, and I'm comfortable sitting with scripture, guilt, church hurt, and questions about forgiveness. If that's not your framework, we don't go there. Plenty of my clients have no religious practice at all.

Do I have to be a man to work with you?

NO! I work with people of all ages and genders. Everyone is welcome in my office.

Is a counselor (LPC) different from a psychologist or a psychiatrist?

Yes. A psychiatrist is a physician who prescribes medication. A psychologist typically holds a doctorate and often does psychological testing. An LPC holds a master's degree and a state license to diagnose and treat mental health conditions through therapy. For anxiety, depression, divorce adjustment, anger, and compulsive behavior, an LPC is a standard and appropriate level of care. If you need medication, I'll coordinate with a prescriber.

What if I don't know what to say?

Then you say that. I've never had a first session fail because a man showed up without a speech prepared. I ask questions for a living.