

Michelle Schafer, M.A., LMFT
Michelle Schafer, M.A., LMFT
Psychotherapy for Individuals, Couples, and Families


How much does it cost?
My fee is $125 for a 50-minute session. I offer a handful of sliding scale slots, which can range from $50-$120. Couples or family sessions are usually 80 minutes and the fee is $170.
What are your hours?
I see clients as early as 6am and will go as late as 8pm.
Payment
Cash and checks are accepted for payment.
Cancellation Policy
You will be responsible for the full cost of the session if you do not show up for your scheduled therapy appointment and you have not notified me at least 24 hours in advance.
Do you take insurance?
I do not currently take insurance. However, most PPO insurance carriers will reimburse you for out-of-network care. If you want to use your PPO insurance, I will be happy to provide you with a Superbill at the end of each month. In this instance, you would pay my fee and then send the Superbill to your insurance so that they can reimburse you directly.
Note: If you use your insurance, your diagnosis becomes part of your permanent health record. For this reason, many people prefer to pay out of pocket to protect their privacy and right to choose.
Why should I consider therapy?
There are many reasons why people come to therapy. You might be struggling with long-term psychological issues, or having negative reactions to current circumstances, events, or transitions in your life (i.e. career, divorce, illness, etc.) Some people are functioning okay, but feel generally unsettled and don't know why. Others are just looking for guidance as they self-reflect and work towards personal growth. Therapy can help provide insight, support, and new strategies for all types of life challenges. Therapy is right for anyone who is interested in getting the most out of their life by taking responsibility, creating greater self-awareness, and working towards change in their lives.
How can therapy help me?
A number of benefits are available from participating in psychotherapy. Therapists can provide support, problem-solving skills, and enhanced coping strategies. Therapists can provide a fresh perspective on a difficult problem or point you in the direction of a solution. The benefits you obtain from therapy depend on how well you use the process and put into practice what you learn. Some of the benefits available from therapy include:
- Attaining a better understanding of yourself, your goals and values
- Developing skills for improving your relationships
- Learning new ways to cope with stress and anxiety
- Managing anger, grief, depression, and other emotional pressures
- Improving communications and listening skills
- Changing old behavior patterns and developing new ones
- Learning problem-solving skills and conflict resolution
- Improved self-esteem and self-confidence
Is therapy confidential?
In general, the law protects the confidentiality of all communications between a client and psychotherapist. No information is disclosed without prior written permission from the client.
However, there are some exceptions required by law to this rule. Exceptions include:
- Suspected child abuse or dependent adult or elder abuse. The therapist is required to report this to the appropriate authorities immediately.
- If a client is threatening serious bodily harm to another person, the therapist is required to notify the police.
- If a client intends to harm himself or herself, the therapist will make every effort to work with the individual to ensure their safety. However, if an individual does not cooperate, additional measures may need to be taken.