Mary Elisabeth Bonneson (She/Her)

As we begin your counseling process, I'll be interested in learning from you about your current concerns and life situation, your personal strengths, your history of losses, your hardships, and the ways you've already grown. I invite you to share your personal experiences as you feel more comfortable over time. Let's explore how research-based interventions from many different approaches can benefit you to move forward on your healing journey. I am equipped to help you with Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Interpersonal Therapy, Relaxation Training, Short-term Solution-Focused strategies, Positive Psychology, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, The Forgiveness Process, and Christian Counseling techniques. We'll assess your situation, collaborate, and decide which steps are most suitable for your needs. You can expect a counseling experience in which you feel safe, respected and informed. I will have compassion for your hurts, fears, and sorrows yet also nudge you toward taking steps that will move you forward toward positive goals. This may involve some sort of task you agree to practice independently between sessions., so that you are learning new coping skills or relationship strategies. We'll be serious when appropriate yet also leave room for humor when that fits, too. We will embrace an optimistic outlook, knowing that no matter what, hope prevails. Most people are concerned about costs.. What matters most is your "out of pocket" costs, after insurance has been figured in. Insurance coverage varies greatly. There may be only a copay for each session such as $20 or $40. There may be a deductible that has to be met. If I am credentialed in-network with your carrier, I will honor their reduced contracted approved rate. Self-pay is also an option. Be sure to consult your insurance carrier to understand your benefits. What to expect in your Initial Interview: During your first session, we'll be reviewing paperwork that you will have completed that summarizes your symptoms and concerns, medical and family history, educational background, and your Goals for your counseling process. We'll also clarify the Confidentiality Policy and answer any questions you might have about other procedures. That session will last about an hour. All subsequent sessions will last 40-60 minutes, depending on your needs. During those sessions, we'll discuss strategies to guide you toward your Goals. I recognize that selecting the right therapist can be difficult. To make that more comfortable, I offer a FREE 20-minute "Meet and Greet" by phone to any new client. This is an informal opportunity for us to meet and chat a bit to determine whether we want to go forward with a counseling process.