How do I schedule my first appointment? You can schedule your first appointment by reaching out through the contact form on the website or by calling the office directly. From there, we can set up a free 15-minute phone consultation to see if I’d be a good fit for your needs and answer any questions you may have. What should I expect at my first session? Your first session is an intake appointment that lasts about an hour. I’ll ask questions to get to know you better and understand what you’re struggling with. We’ll also talk about your goals and what you’d like to get out of therapy. It’s a chance for us to start building a connection and create a plan that supports your needs moving forward. If your child is the one receiving services, the first session also provides an opportunity for them to become familiar with me, the office, and the therapeutic play toys. Creating a safe and welcoming environment helps your child feel more comfortable and supported as we begin the therapy process.

Payment and Insurance:

Do you accept insurance? Yes, I accept a limited number of insurance plans. Currently, I’m in-network with Blue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS), ND Medical Assistance (NDMA), and Sanford Health Plan. If you don’t see your provider listed, don’t worry—I’m happy to provide a superbill after each session that may help you get reimbursed by your insurance directly.

For Parents & Guardians | Do I attend my child’s therapy session?

It depends on your child’s age and their specific needs. For many sessions, especially with younger children, I typically invite parents back at the beginning for a 10–15 minute check-in to talk about how the past week has been. After that, I usually work one-on-one with your child. Parent involvement is an important part of the process, and I’ll keep you updated regularly so we can work as a team to support your child’s progress.

For Parents & Guardians | How will I know how my child is doing in therapy?

I provide regular updates to keep you informed about your child’s progress. This often includes brief check-ins at the start of sessions, and we can also schedule parent-only sessions when more in-depth conversations are needed. While I do maintain some confidentiality to build trust with your child, I’ll always keep you in the loop on important themes, progress toward goals, and any concerns. I view parents as essential partners in the therapy process.

FAQ | Helm Therapy Services

How often will I need to come to therapy? It depends on your goals, needs, and what you're working through. Most clients start with weekly sessions to build momentum and consistency. As progress is made, sessions may shift to every other week or monthly. We'll work together to find a schedule that feels right for you and supports your growth. How long will therapy take? There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Some people feel better after a few sessions, while others may benefit from longer-term support. It depends on your goals, the issues you're working through, and how often we meet. We’ll check in regularly about your progress and adjust as needed to make sure therapy is working for you. Do you offer in-person or virtual sessions? Yes, I offer both in-person and virtual (telehealth) sessions. You’re welcome to choose what feels most comfortable and convenient for you. While telehealth can be a great option for teens and adults, in-person sessions often work better for younger children, especially when using play therapy approaches. We can talk through what makes the most sense based on your needs.

FAQs

Frequently asked questions

General Therapy Questions:

Getting Started:

Payment and Insurance:

For Parents & Guardians | Do I attend my child’s therapy session?

For Parents & Guardians | How will I know how my child is doing in therapy?