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Want solutions and practical new tools to help you move forward in an area of your life where you can't seem to get traction?  I use a brief, solution-focused approach to counseling which is different than traditional, longer-term psychotherapy. Focusing on your future vision of the part of your life you want to change, I help you use and build your strengths and take positive steps toward realizing a solution, rather than dwelling on your past experiences and problems.  

Here are some common issues I can help you with...

• STRESS/ANXIETY: Learn healthier ways of dealing with stress and anxiety and create balance in your life

• HEALTH GOALS: Make sustainable changes in your exercise, nutrition, and wellness habits

• PRODUCTIVITY: Improve focus, and attention, time management, and overcome procrastination

• MAJOR CHANGES: Better navigate big life transitions-college, career, new baby, marriage/divorce, mid-life, and more

• BIG DECISIONS: Gain new insight to help you make important decisions based on your values and priorities

• CAREER: Chart a new course for a more satisfying career, start your business strong, or land your great next job

• PARENTING TEENS: End struggles, increase connection, foster emotional intelligence, and build character

• MORE: See more areas I specialize in and what I don't work with

HOW BRIEF SOLUTION-FOCUSED COUNSELING WORKS

Here's a snapshot of the process—

• First, I help you more fully envision the new future you want to create in the area of your life that you desire to change and clearly define the specific changes would you like to achieve. Change is often achieved within 2 to 12 sessions.

• Next, I help in defining a road map with clear, actionable steps to reach your goal.

• We identify, use and build your strengths, knowledge, and motivation, combined with new tools, resources and support, to help you make progress .

• Together, we track progress, fold in new insights from overcoming any obstacles along your path, and celebrate your successes along the way.

COUNSELING VS PSYCHOTHERAPY-WHICH IS RIGHT FOR YOU?

I specialize in counseling—we can meet in my Austin office or online via video sessions. Counseling generally requires less time than traditional therapy for many common issues. While both approaches can help you make changes in yourself, your relationships, and your life. and share some aspects in common, there are important differences.  The following may help you determine the best fit for you:

Counseling fits best when you’ve merely hit a speed bump on the road of life or find yourself at a crossroads, facing a major decision or change. Focusing mainly on the here-and-now, the future you want to create, and your strengths, counseling can help you get back on track or help you navigate a tough transition—offering new skills, support, and resources to identify and overcome lifestyle patterns and thinking habits that are blocking your path, bogging you down, or creating needless stress.

Psychotherapy is generally the best choice when you need more than a simple “tune-up” to get back on the road—when you've hit a roadblock and are feeling significant dysfunction or distress. Through a sustained healing alliance with a therapist, you typically explore your problems, often rooted in the past, in order to gain insight into underlying causes of dysfunctional patterns—often with a focus on processing distressing feelings, memories, and thoughts—with a goal of healing your relationship with yourself or others.

FLEXIBLE SCHEDULING & fees

SCHEDULING

Can't fit in weekly sessions or a full hour session into your busy schedule? I offer flexible scheduling options, including video sessions, to work with your busy life. 15-90 minute sessions are available, depending on your needs and preference. Limited after-hours appointments are available. Meeting twice monthly or for shorter or longer sessions works well in some cases. After achieving your goals you can meet monthly or quarterly for "tune-up" maintenance sessions to help ensure your long-term success. 

FEES

I recognize your choice to embark on a new path in your life through seeking counseling support can be a significant financial investment and not easily affordable for all. For this reason, I will flex around both the length and frequency of your sessions, when appropriate, to work with your budget.  For example, you can meet for 15-90 minute sessions, meet just twice a month, or choose other intervals as appropriate. 

Simple Fee Structure  You are charged by the length of session needed at a rate of $30 per 1/4 hour, when paid in full at the time of service. Sessions range from 15 to 90 minutes, depending on need and type of session. A typical session is 45 minutes to 1 hour, so for example, the fee would be $90 or $120. A 30-minute follow-up or 15 minute brief check-in would be $60 or $30. An extended session of 75 or 90 minutes would be $150 or $180. 

I offer the following additional options and resources to help make counseling more affordable

• EAP Employee Assistance Program If I am a provider on your employer's EAP plan, your authorized visits will be free of charge

• Insurance Co-payments If your health plan offers coverage for your issue, I will accept your co-payment and file insurance claims for you

• HSA / FSA Account I can accept payments directly from your HSA or FSA health or flexible spending accounts via your account program credit or debit card

• Low-Cost/Free Counseling or Therapy You may check the following page to help you locate lower-cost options for providers and resources

PAYMENT

For your convenience, I accept all major credit cards, FSA or HSA spending account cards, and electronic payments such as PayPal. I accept checks or cash on a limited basis. Payment is due in full at the time of service unless otherwise arranged. My regular rate will be charge for sessions not paid timely and requiring invoicing by my billing service.

FLEXIBLE SESSION LENGTH OPTIONS

Sessions range from 15 to 90 minutes—based on the time needed for your specific focus, phase of progress, or goal and other considerations. 

• 45 minutes The most common session length, allows in-depth focus and promotes solid, steady progress

• 15 or 30 minutes Shorter sessions work best for accountability check-ins, as a follow-up to boost motivation or refocus, or to help you get back on track if you get derailed

• 60 or 75 minutes Longer sessions are most effective for intensifying focus and accelerating progress, tackling a more complex problem, or when multiple issues require attention

• 90 minutes Extended sessions are ideal when including a partner or family member in your session, if needing a 'catch-up' session after a planned break, such as travel, and after successfully reaching your goals to maintain your progress with periodic maintenance sessions

FLEXIBLE SESSION FREQUENCY OPTIONS

Meeting once weekly is most common, but research shows meeting more or less frequently can be beneficial for some situations. The length of time and frequency of meeting is determined by your goals, budget, time-frame and schedule, as well as other factors we will determine together.  

• 1 x Week Weekly meetings are generally associated with the strongest, steady progress according to research. However, weekly meetings are not always practical and sometimes are not the most helpful frequency.

• 2 x Month Meeting every-other week can be effective if you are able to stay focused on your goals and make progress between sessions. Optional therapeutic 'assignments' such as reading, journaling, or practicing new skills and tools, can help you maintain sustained focus and progress.

• Monthly or Quarterly Meeting monthly or quarterly can be effective in helping you sustain longer-term success after you have reached your goals or when need regular maintenance tune-ups for achieving overall life balance or choose to pursue long-term self-development.

• 2 x Week Meeting several times per week may be helpful when you encounter an unexpected setback and want assistance getting back on track as quickly as possible, or when you want to focus more intensively to accelerate progress.

To help you get traction and build momentum at the outset, meeting at least once weekly in the beginning is recommended. As you make progress towards your goals, we can make adjustments as needed. 

WHAT CAN i HELP YOU WITH?

COMMON ISSUES

HEALTH GOALS: Make sustainable changes in your exercise, nutrition, and wellness habits

TRANSITIONS/BIG DECISIONS: Better navigate challenges with new insight based on your values (college, career, new family, business and more)

PRODUCTIVITY: Improve focus, and attention, time management, overcome procrastination and other issues

CAREER: Chart a new course for a more satisfying career, start your business strong, or land your great next job

MY SPECIALTIES

In addition to the issues mentioned above, I specialize in the following areas for which I have a particular passion and experience:

DEVELOP SUSTAINABLE HEATH HABITS (sleep, nutrition, exercise, R&R and many others)

MINDFULNESS TRAINING (for increasing joy, self-compassion, patience, focus, productivity, and so much more)

PERSONALITY/VALUES EXPLORATION (using the Enneagram and other tools)

CREATIVE/ARTIST/HSP*/SPIRITUAL SEEKER growth and development (*Highly Sensitive Person)

PSYCHO-EDUCATION (on many topics for individuals, groups, and organizations)

Do any of the following describe you?

…A young adult, millennial, or mid-lifer on the awesome adventure of becoming the most authentic, best version of yourself or wanting to better navigate the transition to college, a new career, or other important life goals?

…Creatively or mentally gifted, a deep thinker, spiritual seeker, intuitive, artist, or highly sensitive person wanting to explore and mine your inner world for insight, inspiration, growth, meaning, self-actualization?

…A high-achiever, perfectionist, or go-getter wanting to achieve greater balance, deeper connections, and even a bit more enjoyment in your life?

…Going through a big life reset or transition—newly married, new job, new parent or empty-nester, big career move, relocation, etc.?

…Past ready to start living more mindfully in the present, with more focus, contentment, compassion and poise when life throws you a curve-ball?

…Curious about your personality type or identifying your deepest values, strengths and areas ripe for greatest growth potential, or interested in exploring the Enneagram to deepen your self-understanding, self-compassion. and accelerate your evolution?

ARE THERE ANY ISSUES YOU DON'T WORK WITH?

Yes, I refer to specialists for certain issues because they can be more effective than a non-specialist. Below is a list of issues outside of my current scope of practice. I will gladly assist you with a referral to a professional experienced in working with your issue.  Or you may find assistance from specialists for your particular concerns by clicking in the links below:

• Life-threatening condition, psychiatric emergencies, and crisis intervention

• Active serious mental illness, such as psychosis, severe depression, bipolar disorder and others

• Addiction, chemical/alcohol abuse and behavioral addictions (gambling, sex, shopping, internet/video games, hoarding, etc.)

• Eating disorders, self-harm

• Unresolved abuse/trauma

• Gender or racial identity issues (I welcome all individuals regardless of gender identity, sexual orientation, or race)

• Legal issues requiring my court testimony or documentation (child custody, disability, injury, etc.)

• Couples, marital, and family counseling or relationship issues involving abuse or violence

• Family planning or pregnancy counseling

• Biblically-directed counseling (I welcome all faiths and spiritual seekers and seek to integrate your beliefs and values in my approach)

ARE THERE ANY AGES OR GROUPS YOU DON'T WORK WITH?

• I currently do not work with minors under the age of 18. The following link may assist you in finding counselors/therapists specializing in minors under age 18 or for other areas particular concern.

• I strongly value and tremendously enjoy working with a diversity of adults and young adults, including all racial/ethnic/cultural backgrounds, the full gender/sexuality spectrum, regardless of religious or political beliefs. Please note: I am not a specialist for any of these specific areas if they are a primary area of concern/focus. Click here for links to specialists for these issues/concerns.

Is video counseling right for you?

HOW DO I CONNECT VIA ONLINE VIDEO?

Connecting via video is simple, secure, and free! The teleconferencing app I uses the highest security standard (direct peer-to-peer) and works with any Android and iOS device. The teleconferencing app is intuitive provides connection stability across long distances, allowing us to connect from remote areas almost anywhere in the country or across the globe!

IS VIDEO COUNSELING ONLINE AS EFFECTIVE AS IN-PERSON COUNSELING/COACHING?

Yes. In a number of research studies on effectiveness, remote web-based video treatment was found to be equally, and in some cases, even more effective, than traditional in-office counseling or therapy. 

Have more questions about video counseling via the internet or how it works? Just drop me a line or give me a call.

CAN I USE INSURANCE FOR VIDEO COUNSELING?

[NOTE: I AM NOT CURRENTLY ACCEPTING INSURANCE REFERRALS AT FOR THE REMAINDER OF 2023]. Sometimes—health insurance coverage has increased dramatically in recent years for online video counseling (aka "telehealth' or "telemedicine)." Coverage varies by plan and from state to state. Telehealth for mental and behavioral health services are mandated by Texas law for certain types of plans. I'm an approved telehealth provider with several major insurance EAP plans. Check the list of EAP plans I'm contracted with and check with Member Services for your health plan to find out about your telehealth coverage and any special requirements or authorization needed before scheduling an appointment.

DO I HAVE TO BE A TEXAS RESIDENT TO MEET WITH YOU?

Yes; however, you don't have to be currently located in Texas to meet with me. I can provide counseling services to you wherever you're located around the globe. If you're a college student from Texas living away from home in another state or country, I can still work with you. Likewise, if you're a US military or government employee residing in Texas but stationed overseas. If you're not a Texas resident, you can check the following link to locate an online provider in your state.  

I've had the opportunity to work with a wide variety of people from rural Texas, other states, and other countries. Working with people who would otherwise not have easy access to needed counseling support is not only an important cause which I'm an active advocate for, it's also a great privilege and an interesting experience that I enjoy. 

MEET DONNA

MY BACKGROUND

The power and potential of the human mind has been a perennial fascination since I was a teen, along with my growth and transformative experiences in therapy as an adult inspired my decision to pursue psychology as a profession. I continue to pursue pathways of personal growth, most recently, wellness coaching and mindfulness practice. I moved to Austin over 20 years ago for graduate training in the UT doctoral Counseling Psychology program and received a Master's degree in Educational Psychology in 1997. I grew up in north Texas, graduated from the University of Dallas, a Catholic liberal arts college, and pursued post-graduate study in psychology and art at Penn State. Since obtaining my license as a professional counselor in 2002, I have worked in schools, clinics, psychological assessment, psychoeducation, and independent private practice working with all ages for over 15 years,  As an advocate for increasing access to mental health services for under-served areas through technology, I have expanded my reach outside of the local Austin area with online video telehealth counseling services, allowing me to connect with a diversity of people from many walks of life and across the globe which I greatly enjoy.

MY APPROACH, STYLE, AND PHILOSOPHY

Approach Solution-focused brief counseling is one of several treatment approaches I use in helping you "grow your best self." I choose to specialize in the solution-focused, brief treatment model because it can generate results quickly for many common issues through focusing on positive actions you can take in the here-and-now of your daily life, putting your strengths to work in building a more ideal version of your future life, rather than focusing on the past, problems, and symptoms. Other approaches I often use include cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and mindfulness training, all approaches that can help empower you to meet life's challenges with greater resilience and effectiveness, and in harmony with your values.  I draw on insights from positive psychology, a developing branch of psychology which has been called "the science of happiness,' to provide practical tools to help you enjoy more satisfaction and enjoyment in your life. I use assessments or psychological "tests" to track your progress and to promote accelerated insight into your personality, values. relationships, and life patterns.

Style Above all else, I strive to be authentic and fully present with you during sessions, to meet you where your are, with genuine appreciation and compassion for what brings you to this point in your life—without judgment, assumptions, or an agenda. I view my work as co-creating a positive and productive space for you to experience full freedom to explore, discover, and claim new aspects or disconnected parts of yourself. I've been told by clients over the years that I have a calm, positive, and reassuring presence. I especially love working with those who are new to counseling and coaching and work to make the process for newcomers less mystifying and daunting. 

Philosophy I embrace the idea that optimal well-being integrates all facets of the self—body, mind, heart, and spirit—and that cultivating greater self-awareness, gratitude, and compassion towards self and others opens the door to an authentic, meaningful, and deeply satisfying life. I believe that when our actions are motivated by love instead of fear, an ordinary life of surviving and striving can be transformed into an extraordinary life of abundance and thriving. I view counseling and therapy as one of a number of useful paths for healing and personal growth which can be instrumental in finding the courage and wisdom to follow an upward arc in our lives, moment to moment, and day to day.

PROFESSIONAL EDUCATION, CREDENTIALS, AND AFFILIATIONS

Bachelor of Arts, 1987 University of Dallas, Liberal Arts, Irving, Texas, and Rome, Italy

Master of Arts 1997, University of Texas at Austin Counseling Psychology, Educational Psychology doctoral training program

Texas State Board of Examiners of Professional Counselors, License #17728, 2002 - current

American Counseling Association, Member

Texas Counseling Association, Member

Coalition for Technology in Behavioral Science (CTiBS), Member

Association for Spiritual, Ethical and Religious Values in Counseling (ASERVIC), Member

Texas Association for Humanistic Education and Development, Member

Open Path Collective Psychotherapy Collective, Member

Still have questions about my experience, background, or training? You're welcome to drop me a line. 

INSURANCE & private PAYMENT

I can help you obtain your out of network benefits information for insurance EAPs. Click to view the list of EAP plans I currently work with. 

INSURANCE COVERAGE FOR VIDEO COUNSELING

Good news—more health plans are now covering "telehealth" sessions (a.k.a., video counseling, web therapy, online therapy, distance counseling, virtual or e-therapy). Coverage varies by plan. For details of your telehealth coverage, you can call the member services phone number on your insurance card—and check out my tips on what to asking your insurer about your telehealth service coverage in Q&A.

PRIVATE PAYMENT WITHOUT INSURANCE

Prefer to pay privately without insurance benefits? Many people prefer to pay directly without filing claims with their health plan due to several potential advantages.  Benefits including a greater choice of treatment options, limiting the information shared with your insurer regarding diagnosis and treatment, and protecting your future eligibility and rates for life, health, or other types of insurance, and protection in legal situations such as divorce or child custody cases. If privacy control over your health information is a concern, it is important to understand that utilizing your health plan benefits requires a documented mental health diagnosis which may become part of your Medical Information Bureau record and can be shared with insurers. 

No insurance, no coverage for counseling, or a high deductible? It's still possible for find affordable options. Despite popular notions of therapy taking many months or years, counseling doesn't have to be long-term to be effective for many common issues, especially using brief solution-focused and cognitive-behavioral approaches, among others, Counseling is usually shorter-term than traditional psychotherapy, so seek counseling if you can seek counseling if you don't have a serious mental illness or dysfunction. I offer a discounted rate for payment in full at the time of service, for reduction of administrative collections costs, and I offer flexibility for length of sessions and how often we meet. Even without insurance coverage, I'm able to accept your FSA or HSA funds for payment. I respect that most people have limited financial resources, so please see further information on additional low-cost options here.

referrals to specialists

ARE THERE ANY ISSUES, AGES, OR GROUPS YOU DON'T WORK WITH?

Yes. That's because specialists are generally most effective for certain types of issues. In addition, most professionals have particular areas of expertise and interest, so are more effective with those issues than non-specialists. Please review the list below for the areas of concern that I don't work with currently. I will gladly assist you with a referral to another professional who specializes in your issue, or you may find assistance from specialists for your particular concerns by clicking in the links for each each issue listed.

• Life-threatening condition, psychiatric emergencies, and crisis intervention (please click the link and reach out for assistance right away)

• Active serious mental illness, such as psychosis, severe depression, bipolar disorder and others

• Addiction, chemical/alcohol abuse and behavioral addictions (gambling, sex, shopping, internet/video games, hoarding, etc.)

• Eating disorders, self-harm

• Unresolved abuse/trauma

• Gender or racial identity issues (I welcome all individuals regardless of gender identity, sexual orientation, or race)

• Legal issues requiring my court testimony or documentation (child custody, disability, injury, etc.)

• Couples, marital, and family counseling or relationship issues involving abuse or violence

• Family planning or pregnancy counseling

• Biblically-directed counseling (I welcome all faiths and spiritual seekers and seek to integrate your beliefs and values in my approach)

• I currently do not work with minors under the age of 18. The following link may assist you in finding counselors/therapists specializing in minors under age 18 or for other areas particular concern.

• I strongly value and tremendously enjoy working with a diversity of adults and young adults, including all racial/ethnic/cultural backgrounds, as well as the full gender/sexuality spectrum, regardless of religious or political beliefs. Please note: I am not a specialist for any of these specific areas if they are a primary area of concern/focus. Click here for links to specialists for these issues/concerns.