We will begin with a phone consultation to see if we’re a good fit for therapy and answer any questions. You can request a phone consultation by visiting the “Contact Me” page or by clicking any “Book a Session” link throughout the website. If preferred, feel free to email me directly at marie@collinspsychotherapy.org to request a phone consultation.

The first session is a chance for us to get to know each other. We’ll talk about what’s bringing you in, your goals, and how we might work together. This will involve information gathering.

I’m currently in-network with Maryland Medicaid, and I also provide superbills for out-of-network reimbursement. More details under my “Individual Therapy” tab. 

My standard session fee is $185. Sliding scale spots may be available, though limited—please ask for more info.

I ask for at least 24 hours’ notice to cancel or reschedule a session. Late cancellations may incur a fee or strike. If you have Medicaid insurance, no show and cancellation fees are not allowed, so a strike system is in place. This is something we will discuss at length at the time of the phone consultation.

If you're using insurance, a diagnosis is required for them to cover services. That said, I understand that being given a diagnosis can sometimes feel like labeling or like you're being put in a box—and I take that seriously. My goal is never to define you by a label, but to understand your experience in a way that helps guide treatment and support.

It's also possible that you may not meet the full criteria for a diagnosis. If that’s the case, we can still explore your concerns together and focus on your goals for growth and healing, regardless of a formal diagnosis.

The length of therapy varies from person to person and largely depends on your unique goals, needs, and what you’re hoping to get out of the process. Some clients come to therapy with a specific issue or transition they want support with. In these cases, short-term therapy (about 3 to 6 months) may be enough to create meaningful change.

Ultimately, you are in control of your therapy journey. Some clients choose to stay in therapy for maintenance or personal growth, even after their initial concerns have improved. We’ll work together to determine what pace and duration feel right for you.

My office hours are Monday through Thursday from 10am to 5pm, and you can generally expect email or phone responses during those times. While my standard hours end at 5pm, I do offer some later evening sessions on select days. I’m not in the office or available for sessions on Fridays or weekends.

When needed—especially around safety concerns—I do involve parents. I also believe it's important for teens to have a space that feels truly their own. Therapy works best when they feel safe, heard, and not under pressure. I’ll always encourage healthy family communication and, when something important comes up, I’ll help your teen feel supported in bringing you in with their consent.