OK, so you are ready to get help, but you still have some questions...

What is a "mental coach" and how can one help you reach your full potential?

Mental coaching is a way of helping people who are stuck in a problem find a way of dealing with it better than they have up until now. 

I take a solution focused approach with the use of applied behavior analysis techniques and Acceptance-Commitment Therapy to help people effectively progress toward goals.  I believe starting with a goal at the beginning of treatment along with routine progress monitoring helps a person know when it is time to stop. 

Seeking professional help is a personal choice.  You will benefit and see a change when you put into practice the things you learn.    

Are you going to tell me what to do?

This is an opportunity for you to become empowered and control your life.  That means allowing you to direct your decisions, not me.  Although I may give you some techniques, it is up to you use them.  

Can you guarantee a college scholarship or professional career?

I believe in supporting people make the best choices for themselves and being comfortable with those choices.  Sometimes that means making the choice to change directions and a different path.

Once I start working with a mental coach, can I stop at anytime?

Receiving coaching or counseling is a choice you enter in freely and are free to leave at anytime. 

To help clients know when it is best for them to stop the counseling process, we set a goal at the beginning. We will set a goal when you first start services and when you reach that goal(s) you will receive the benefits of counseling and feel good about ending.  

I am a private person, will anyone find out I'm going to counseling?

Counseling is confidential and no one has to know you are getting help. BUT, there are some exceptions:

• Minors (under 18yrs) or Elders (65yr +) wha are being harmed, I am legally obligated to get them help
• Life threatening situations like suicide or homicide, keeping you safe is a requirement
• Using insurance as coverage for payment of services, I may have to disclose some information for billing purposes and to make sure you get the proper care.   

Am I weak or "crazy" because I need to go see a mental coach?

Recognizing that you need help does not make you weak, it does not mean that you are "sick" or "crazy".  Asking for help to carry a 200lb load is wise.

Will I have to be in counseling for a really long time? 

My 5 step strategies are a solution focused approach, so from the first time we met we will always be working toward you ending services.  I believe that coaching is a relationship that does not last a life time, but the effects do.  

I'm applying to an athletic scholarship, will college recruiters use the information I share with you against me?

Any release of information about your treatment must be authorized by you, unless in the case a judge in a court of law issues a subpoena. It is only under these circumstances that I would be required to provide any information about you. That is why I will not agree to testify in any court hearings for custody or divorce situations.   

What if I don't feel comfortable with counseling, how do I stop?

Change usually feels uncomfortable; I always say if you start to feel uncomfortable that means counseling is working, so keep at it.  I make it my practice to check in with my clients and see how things are going so we can make adjustments where and when needed.  It is always your choice to leave counseling when you are ready.  

Where are you located?

My offices are located at 818 N. Mountain Ave. Ste 219 in Upland in the Citizen's Bank Building at the corner of 11th and Mountain Ave.  

How much will these services cost?

Mental health coaching/counseling is an investment in your future and every dollar and minute is valuable.  Each person is unique and so is the treatment services offered, please visit the Services Page to review different options available.

Do you take insurance?

Some people choose to pay for cost on a cash basis for cost of services.  I do provide "Super Bill" for those individuals who wish to seek reimbursement for out of network services.  I do accept a few major insurance carriers and would be willing to discuss using this options where available.  Feel free to call me directly to explore which option is best for you.

What forms of payment do you receive? 

The majority of my clients choose to pay cash/check or use their personal credit for this service. I do take a limited number of Employee Assistance Provided insurances, you can feel free to call me directly to verify if I take yours.

How do I schedule an appointment?

You can click on the Getting Started page and complete the contact information form or call directly to schedule an appointment. 

How often will I have to come?

Most people are able to benefit from coming on a weekly basis.  Remember each person is unique and depending upon their personal situation frequency may vary.                 

How do I know you have what it takes to help me with my problem?

Over the last 17 years my experience working with families has allowed me to gain firsthand knowledge of the struggles families have with the difficult challenges facing them today.   Feel free to view my profile on Psychologytoday.com or elevatedlifecoaching.com to learn more about my background and services.

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