FAQ — Joanne Darrell Herbert

Question 1

What can I expect from our first session?

Accepted Answer

The first session is a space for us to meet — for you to share what has brought you here, and for me to begin understanding your world. There is no pressure to have everything figured out. We will talk about what you are hoping for, what feels difficult, and whether working together feels like the right fit. It is as much about you getting a sense of me as it is about me getting a sense of you.

Question 2

How long does therapy typically last?

Accepted Answer

There isn't a single answer, because every person arrives with a different story, different goals, and a different pace.

In my experience, meeting weekly for the first 6–8 weeks gives us an opportunity to build a strong foundation together. From there, some people continue meeting weekly, while others gradually move to every few weeks or return as life unfolds.

Many people begin therapy during a crisis. But I also love working with people who aren't in crisis — people who simply want to understand themselves more deeply, strengthen their relationships, or build a foundation before life becomes overwhelming. You don't have to wait until things fall apart to begin paying attention to yourself.

We'll check in regularly about what's feeling helpful, what's changing, and what pace makes the most sense for you.

There's no finish line to race toward. We'll begin where you are, and we'll move at a pace that feels thoughtful, sustainable, and right for your life.

Question 3

How often will we meet?

Accepted Answer

Most clients begin with weekly sessions, which allows us to build momentum and continuity. As the work progresses, some people shift to bi-weekly, monthly, or as needed. We will find a rhythm that supports your process and fits your life.

Question 4

What does a session look like?

Accepted Answer

Sessions are 50, 75, or 90 minutes and take place over a secure video platform. You can join from wherever feels private and comfortable — your home, your car, a quiet room. I work in a relational, depth-oriented way, which means we follow what feels most alive or most pressing for you. There is no rigid agenda. The conversation leads.

Question 5

What are your fees?

Accepted Answer

fees-table

Question 6

Do you offer a sliding scale?

Accepted Answer

Yes. I believe access to quality therapy should not be determined solely by income. I hold a limited number of reduced-fee spaces. My sliding scale spots are currently full. If you'd like to be added to the waitlist, please reach out.

Question 7

Is therapy covered by insurance?

Accepted Answer

Many extended health benefit plans cover sessions with a Registered Psychotherapist. I recommend checking with your provider before we begin. I provide receipts for all sessions that you can submit for reimbursement.

Question 8

What is your cancellation policy?

Accepted Answer

I ask for 24 hours notice for cancellations or rescheduling. Missed sessions will be charged the full session fee. Life happens — if something urgent arises, please reach out and we will navigate it together.

Question 9

How do I know if therapy is right for me?

Accepted Answer

If you are carrying something that feels too heavy to hold alone — grief, anxiety, patterns that keep repeating, a sense that something needs to shift — therapy can be a place to set it down and look at it clearly. You do not need to be in crisis to benefit. Curiosity about yourself is enough to begin.

Question 10

What if I have never been to therapy before?

Accepted Answer

Many of the people I work with are coming to therapy for the first time. There is nothing you need to know or prepare. You only need to show up. We will build the container together, at a pace that feels safe.

Question 11

Do you work with couples?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Couples work explores the dynamic between two people — the spoken and unspoken, the patterns that have calcified, and the possibilities that still exist. It requires both people to be willing to be seen, not just to see. If that resonates, I would welcome a conversation.

Question 12

What if therapy does not feel like it is working?

Accepted Answer

This is one of the most important things you can bring into the room. The therapeutic relationship itself is part of the work — and if something is not landing, saying so is not a failure. It is information. I welcome that kind of honesty and will work with you to understand what needs to shift.

You're probably
wondering.

The Process

Fees & Practicalities

Working Together

You're probablywondering.

The Process

Fees & Practicalities

Working Together

You're probably
wondering.