Frequently Asked Questions
Do you take insurance?
Yes, Carrie is in-network wtih Aetna insurance. Melissa accepts Aetna and United Healthcare.
You can always use your out-of-network benefits and can Check your benefits here. As an out-of-network provider, the client self-pays upfront at the time of service and then you can choose to submit for reimbursement from your insurance. I have partnered with a company called Thrizer that makes it hassle-free for you to use your out-of-network insurance. Thrizer will confirm your out-of-network benefits for you and submit all paperwork, taking all the legwork out of getting reimbursed! (Please note that using out-of-network benefits does require a diagnosis code).
If you’d like to call your insurance company directly to determine your out-of-network benefits, you can inquire about your benefits for outpatient mental health office visits. These are the specific codes you can ask about whether are covered for out of network benefits are CPT codes 90791 and 90837.
Which therapist is the best fit for me?
Both Carrie and Melissa specialize in trauma-informed therapy and work with clients experiencing anxiety, stress, relationship challenges, and the impact of past experiences. However, each therapist has unique strengths and areas of focus.
Carrie specializes in working with high-achieving women, professionals, perfectionists, people-pleasers, and mothers who appear successful on the outside but feel overwhelmed, disconnected, or stuck in patterns of anxiety, self-doubt, and burnout. Her work focuses on helping clients understand the deeper roots of their struggles, heal unresolved trauma, build healthier relationships, and reconnect with their authentic selves.
Melissa works best with older teens and adults who feel stuck, overwhelmed, emotionally exhausted, or unsure of how to move forward. She specializes in helping clients heal from trauma, develop healthier coping skills, improve emotional regulation, strengthen boundaries, rebuild confidence, and navigate life transitions. Many of her clients are parents, caregivers, helpers, and individuals who want both a supportive space to process their experiences and practical tools they can apply in everyday life.
Not sure who is the best fit? That’s completely normal. During your free 15-minute consultation, we’ll learn more about what you’re looking for and help match you with the therapist whose style and expertise best align with your goals.
What is your rate?
Carrie’s rate is $215 for 50-minute sessions. Melissa’s rate is $175 for a 50-minute session.
For clients who are unable to afford the full fee, we offer limited sliding scale spots depending on availability. If you are concerned about cost, I encourage you to reach out and we can chat more.
If you need a significantly reduced rate, you can try Open Counseling or Open Path Collective.
Who do you typically work with?
We specialize in working with high achievers, professionals, and women navigating stress, anxiety, and unresolved trauma. Many of our clients appear successful on the outside but feel overwhelmed, burnt out, or disconnected inside.
However, if you don’t exactly fit the above description but you resonate with what we offer and are interested in working with us, we’d love for you reach so we can connect!
We also work with all different types of people, of all ages, genders and sexualities. We’ll explore together who is a good fit for your needs. This is exactly why we offer a free 15 minute connection call!
What is EMDR?
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy is an evidence-based approach for healing trauma, anxiety and painful memories. Instead of just talking about your experiences, EMDR helps your brain reprocess distressing memories so they no longer feel overwhelming or “stuck.” EMDR helps facilitate the brain’s natural healing processes through bilateral stimulation, such as eye movements or tapping.
As a Certified EMDR Therapist, I help clients work through trauma, performance anxiety, and stressful life events in a safe and structured way. Many people notice faster results with EMDR than with traditional talk therapy. I offer EMDR therapy in Charlotte, NC, and virtually across North Carolina and Texas.
How often should I come to therapy?
What is the Enneagram?
The Enneagram is a personality typing system that is a tool for self-awareness and growth that integrates psychology and spirituality. The Enneagram becomes a map to better understanding ourselves and our unique pathways for growth and development. Within the Enneagram, there are nine personality types, each with a unique and equally valid world view.
The Enneagram helps us see our patterned ways of thinking, feeling and behaving from our unique world view and how to move beyond our patterned ways as desired.
Can we work together if I live outside of North Carolina or Texas? Are your sessions in person or virtual?
I am licensed to provide therapy in the state of North Carolina and Texas and can only provide services to North Carolina and Texas residents. I can, however, provide Enneagram coaching and educational workshops to those living anywhere. If that feels like the right fit for you, please reach out!
I’m currently offering both virtual and in person sessions. In person sessions are in Elizabeth neighborhood of Charlotte, NC. I can provide virtual therapy for all those residing in either North Carolina and Texas.
What is a Good Faith Estimate?
You have a right to receive a “Good Faith Estimate” explaining how much your mental health care will cost. Under the law, mental health providers should give patients who don’t have insurance or who are not using insurance an estimate of the bill for services.
You have the right to receive a Good Faith Estimate for the total expected cost of any non-emergency items or services such as therapeutic services.
You can also ask your mental health provider and any other medical provider you choose, for a Good Faith Estimate before you schedule services. If you receive a bill that is at least $400 more than your good faith estimate you can dispute the bill.
For more questions or information about your right to Good Faith Estimate visit www.cms.gov/no surprises.
What happens during the initial intake session?
In our first session, we’ll talk about what’s bringing you to therapy, your history, your goals, and together we’ll decide what kind of schedule might work. I’ll also explain what EMDR / IFS / Enneagram work will look like if those are relevant and start to collaborate on creating a treatment plan.
How long does therapy take to see results?
Some clients start noticing shifts in anxiety, self-esteem, or trauma symptoms in the first few sessions. More lasting change typically happens with regular weekly work over several months and sometimes even years. We’ll check in together on progress regularly. With EMDR therapy, you can expect efficient results and progress.
What is IFS therapy?
Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy is an evidence-based approach that helps people understand and heal the different “parts” of themselves, such as the inner critic, perfectionist, or people-pleaser. These parts often develop as protective strategies in response to stress or trauma, but over time they can lead to anxiety, burnout, or feeling disconnected from your authentic self.
In IFS therapy, we work together to create a compassionate relationship with these parts so you can connect with your core Self—your calm, confident, and wise inner center. From there, deep healing and lasting change become possible.
IFS therapy is especially helpful for high achievers, professionals, and anyone experiencing anxiety or unresolved trauma. I offer IFS therapy both in-person in Charlotte, NC and virtually across North Carolina and Texas.