What is a first session like?

It’s completely normal to feel a little nervous before your first session—many clients do! We’ll start by sharing our names and pronouns, and we can spend as much or as little time on that as feels comfortable for you. I’ll have already reviewed your paperwork, so we’ll have some shared context to build on. From there, we’ll have an open conversation where you can share what’s been happening for you, and we can ask each other questions as they come up. This is a chance for me to learn about you and your goals for therapy, and for you to get a sense of my approach, communication style, and how we might work together. If it feels like we’re a good fit, we’ll talk about scheduling. If not, that’s okay too—finding the right therapist is an important part of the process, and I can offer guidance or recommendations to support you in that search.

What type of client does Dr. Patty work best with?

I work best with adult clients who:

• Are seeking therapy for themselves—because they’re interested in growth, feel stuck, or are tired of their current situation—rather than due to external pressures like court mandates or partner ultimatums

• Appreciate warmth and authenticity

• See therapy as an opportunity for vulnerability in a safe space

• Are open to trying something different, even when it feels challenging

• Want to explore patterns in their behavior and how these patterns move them closer to—or farther from—the life they want

• Understand practice outside of session is an essential part of therapy

Logistically, I’ve found that clients who can commit to weekly or biweekly sessions during my available hours (8am to 2pm EST, Monday to Friday) tend to see the best progress. If this sounds like you, I’d love to hear from you!

Do you accept insurance?

I am an out-of-network provider and do not accept insurance directly. However, I can provide you with a superbill that you could submit to your insurance company for possible reimbursement under your out-of-network benefits, if applicable. I’m here to answer any questions about the superbill, and I recommend contacting your insurance provider directly to understand your coverage.

What types of clients or presenting concerns would not be a good fit for working with me?

1. Clients with active suicidal ideation or a recent history of suicide attempts—these concerns often require a higher level of care to ensure safety and support.

2. Clients struggling with active addiction in the last year—these challenges are best addressed through specialized addiction treatment programs.

3. Clients who want to be told what to do—my approach is collaborative, and I work with clients to explore their own insights and solutions.

4. Clients who want to learn how to change others—therapy with me focuses on personal growth and understanding your own patterns, rather than trying to change someone else.

5. Clients seeking documentation for disability, leave from work/school, or emotional support animals—I do not provide these services as part of my practice.

If you’re unsure whether we’d be a good fit, we can explore this during an intake session. This is a chance for us to discuss your needs, goals, and preferences, and I can help you determine if my approach aligns with what you’re looking for—or point you toward other resources if needed.

Do you offer couples therapy?

I do not offer couples therapy, but we can explore your goals for relationship support within the context of individual therapy. Once we’ve established a foundation in our work together, we can discuss whether a joint session might be helpful and appropriate. My priority is ensuring that our time together aligns with your needs and goals.

Where is Dr. Patty located? Where can I be?

My practice is based in Tampa, FL and is fully virtual. Our sessions are over secure video calls. You can be in a private space, in any of the 42 US states that are part of PsyPact.

What are the therapy session fees?

Individual Therapy Fees:

• 30 minute individual therapy $165

• 45 minute individual therapy $185

• 55 minute individual therapy $205

• 60 minute individual therapy intake $225

• 60 joint sessions (client + guest) $275

Joint sessions are available on a case-by-case basis and are not a substitution for couples or family therapy.

What’s a good faith estimate?

You have the right to receive a Good Faith Estimate for the total expected cost of any non-emergency healthcare services, including psychotherapy. This estimate will outline the anticipated costs of your care and is provided to help you make informed decisions about your treatment.

If you are uninsured or choose not to use your insurance, you are entitled to receive a Good Faith Estimate before beginning services. If the actual costs exceed the estimate by $400 or more, you may be eligible to dispute the charges.

For questions or more information about your right to a Good Faith Estimate, please visit www.cms.gov/nosurprises.

Do you prescribe medication?

No. Psychologists, in most states in the US, do not prescribe medications. Generally, doctors with an “MD” and physicians can prescribe medications. If you’re interested in medications for a mental health concern, consider reaching out to a psychiatrist or a primary care provider who is expert in psychiatric consultations.