About
Hi! I’m so glad you’re here.
I’m Kelsey, a professional counselor, a former college athlete, and a recent “20-something”.
Sports were the giver and the taker of so many things in my life. If you’re an athlete, you likely know what I’m talking about. Sports offered me gift, after gift, after gift, and they also asked me to give a whole lot back.
My own experience, my exposure to other collegiate athletes, and the ongoing conversation around athlete mental health has inspired me. I see value in offering support that is deeply understanding of the collegiate athlete’s inner-world and how that world overlaps with the broader spectrum of issues many young adults encounter in their 20s. I aspire to be an understanding and caring presence for college athletes as they navigate mental health challenges, difficult athletic phases, and the eventual transition out of sport.
It is important to me to offer athletes a safe and secure place to be human. I’ll care about your athletic performance, almost as much as you do, AND I’ll offer you a place where your performance doesn’t determine your value.
Here For You.
As a counseling student, I spent a lot of time considering my theory of “people-helping”. Questions I would ask myself included: What makes up a person? Why do they experience what they do? How do people change? What might help them?
Today I can tell you that my theory of people-helping starts with my view of people. I believe that ALL people have intrinsic value. Meaning, your value isn’t contingent on what you do or do not do. I also believe that each human is relational, complex, unique, and imperfect. Therapy with me will honor your value, our therapeutic relationship, your complexity, your uniqueness, and our imperfections.
Because I believe that people are complex, I do not think there is a one-size-fits-all approach to therapy. I believe that psychological health outcomes are influenced by biological, psychological, sociological, and spiritual dimensions.
They all interact with one another in a very complex way. While I’m grounded in my view of people, my method for stepping alongside you in your struggle will be tailored to fit YOUR individual needs. This will be a warm, collaborative, compassion-infused process that honors your thoughts, emotions, behaviors, beliefs, and your history.
I would be happy to meet with you!
FAQ
How much does counseling with you cost?
My rate is $125/50 minute session.
Do you accept insurance?
I choose not to accept insurance in my practice for two main reasons. First, it can compromise client confidentiality. For example, insurance companies can request my notes about our sessions at any time to deem whether treatment is “medically necessary”. Second, insurance companies require at least one diagnosis. Some of my clients may not qualify for a diagnosis, and others may not want a diagnosis to become a part of their medical record. As an alternative, you may seek potential out-of-network provider reimbursement using a “super-bill” statement. Upon your request, I will give you a super-bill statement at the end of each month.
How do I pay you?
I use a practice management software called Simple Practice. When we begin working together, I will send you a link to your Simple Practice Client Portal. In your portal, you will be able to upload one of the following methods of payment: Credit Card, Debit Card, HSA/FSA Card. This is super convenient for you as you will not need to worry about making the payments! They will happen automatically, and I will send you the invoice. If you would prefer to pay with cash or check, then I will ask that you bring that to the session with you.
Are counseling and therapy the same thing?
I hear this question a lot! To be completely honest with you, I didn’t understand the difference for a long time either. These words are used too interchangeably that it makes sense that many of us wouldn’t know the difference. In short, Counseling focuses on specific, more immediate concerns, like adjusting to a big life change, grief and loss or stress management. Therapy, on the other hand, focuses on how thoughts and behaviors, usually influenced by past experiences, affect how we experience ourselves, interact with others, and handle different situations. Kelsey is trained to provide counseling or therapy.
What will happen in our first session?
Our first session together will focus primarily on getting to know you and your story in a casual, respectful way. Many times, we talk about what has brought you to counseling, any past experiences of counseling that were helpful or unhelpful, and any concerns or hopes you have related to the counseling process. I will also tell you about myself, the theoretical framework I utilize (if you’re interested), and the nature of a counseling relationship.
How often should I come see you?
This really depends! Every person comes to counseling with different needs and circumstances. With that in mind, it is important that we discuss the frequency of your visits during our phone consult or initial session. My goal is to create a plan that best suits your needs! In general, I recommend beginning with regular, weekly visits to establish our relationship and build momentum.
How long should I expect to participate in counseling?
The length of time you participate in counseling depends on what you are looking for. Some people are looking for a long-term, supportive relationship with someone who is unbiased and trustworthy. Other individuals are looking for a solution-focused approach that will take only a few sessions. I am regularly checking in with my clients regarding their counseling experience, their goals, and our relationship. We make decisions about your treatment in a collaborative, honest way.
Do you offer virtual (video) sessions?
Yes! I understand that the lives of teens and young adults are moving at a fast pace. Since teens and young adults are my clientele, I prioritize creating accessible, convenient counseling in whatever ways I can.
We Believe
Sometimes the bravest thing you can do is ask for help.
— C.Connors