Frequently Asked Questions
Will counseling help?
Counseling is a proven treatment for many problems ranging from mild to severe. It can also help by improving what's already good. In today's world, many people regularly attend counseling in order to live their best life. "Living with fear stops us from taking risks, and if you don't go out on the branch, you're never going to get the best fruit." - Sarah Parish
What should I expect?
A typical first session looks like getting to know each other, you sharing your story- as much or as little as you'd like, and clarifying what it is that you hope to get out of counseling. Throughout therapy, you can expect a collaborative relationship and respect. You can expect to be in the "driver's seat", deciding what direction sessions should take, how fast to move forward and when to slow down. You can expect me to believe in you, because I have yet to meet a client beyond hope.
What should I NOT expect?
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A couch (there is no couch)
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Me to "fix" you (you're hurting, not broken)
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Me to analyze you (I empathize, not analyze)
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Me to tell you what to do (I'm not your mom)
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It doesn't have to be about your childhood (but it can be)
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One big "aha" moment (it's usually a series of small victories)
What kind of concerns can I talk about?
The beauty of counseling is that no topic is off limits. If it matters to you, it matters to me. Your concerns do not have to be related to being uprooted. Many diverse problems "stem" from the same basic "roots" of pain, trauma, shame, and broken relationships; and those are topics that I strive to understand deeply.
Who do you work with?
I work with adolescents and adults around the world, focusing on those who can relate to the feeling of being uprooted. Because laws governing counselors are constantly changing, before we begin sessions I will need to verify that my license allows me to offer services in your country or state, as I am licensed in Texas, USA.
How long does a session last?
While many professionals consider 45 or 50 minutes to be a professional hour, I do my best to keep sessions unrushed by giving you a full 60-minute session.
How often will we meet?
It is common for counselors and clients to meet weekly or bi-weekly, but I will leave this up to you. You can adjust the frequency of sessions as you see fit and as my schedule allows.
How long will I be in counseling?
There are no obligations or commitments. Some individuals find that they can meet their objectives within just a few sessions. Others come to counseling with more complex concerns that take time to address. Still others schedule regular check-ins to help them stay on track with their goals. I encourage you to invest the time and effort needed to live well.
Will I meet with you in person or online?
All sessions are currently offered online via a secure, user-friendly telehealth platform (like Zoom). Sessions by phone may also be considered, depending on the circumstances. Online counseling has been found to be just as effective as in-person counseling and includes the benefits of access for clients in remote areas, convenient scheduling, and increased anonymity.
Do you prescribe medication?
I am not a medical doctor and therefore do not prescribe or make recommendations about medication.
How much do you charge?
Please see my Services page for information on pricing. Group fees vary by group. Some scholarships are available.
Do you accept insurance?
Unfortunately, I am not able to accept insurance at this time.
How can I pay?
Payments can be made via credit card. For international clients for whom credit cards are not a feasible option, other HIPAA (U.S. privacy law) compliant means of payment will be discussed.
What is your cancellation policy?
If you need to cancel an appointment, I require 24 hours notice. Occasional exceptions due to emergencies may be considered.
What languages do you offer services in?
While I speak English, Azerbaijani, Farsi/Dari, Turkish, and Russian (all at varying levels), the only languages I am competent to provide services in are English and Azerbaijani.
What does "LPC Associate" stand for and what does it mean that you are supervised?
Having earned a Master's degree in Counseling from Sam Houston State University, I am a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, licensed by the Texas State Board of Examiners of Professional Counselors (license #82101). Until I obtain full licensure, all of my counseling work is performed under the supervision of Bill Jack Davis, M.A., LPC-S (license #11269). Should you have questions about my work, he may be contacted at +1 936 441 8255.
How can I get started?
Reach out to me by email, a phone call, a text, or the contact form on this webpage. Let me know where you are currently located and why (in a sentence or 2) you are reaching out. I will then send you a simple form to fill out and sign online. (If you are a minor, I will need your parent or legal guardian to sign the form as well). We'll then set up a time to meet and I'll send you the link to a secure online platform (like Zoom).
Can you help me find a male therapist?
I am comfortable working with both men and women, but for those who prefer a male therapist I recommend the following (all located in Texas, USA):
Bill Jack Davis, M.A., LPC (my supervisor):
Specialty: couples and relationships
Joel Looney, M.A., LPC
Specialty: stress, relationship problems and men's issues
Kurt Bannert, M.A., LPC
Specialty: Third Culture Kids, youth and adolescents
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Still not sure?
Reach out to schedule a no-cost, online 30-minute consultation.