Frequently Asked Questions: Finding Your Way Forward
Starting therapy can feel overwhelming, especially when you are navigating relationship distress or personal trauma. We want to make the process as clear and comfortable as possible. If you can’t find the answer to your question here, we encourage you to schedule a complimentary 15-minute discovery call.
About Our Approach
I’ve had a bad experience with therapy before. How is Relevant Connections different?
We hear such stories often. Many “generalist” therapists try to act as a referee, which can leave you feeling polarized or unheard. At Relevant Connections, we are systemic specialists. We don’t just talk about the problem; we look at the “dance” between people. Plus, because every clinician on our team is EMDR-trained, we can address the underlying trauma that often keeps people stuck in the same cycles.
Why does every therapist at your practice have trauma or EMDR training?
We believe that trauma is often the “third person” in a relationship. Whether it’s a difficult childhood or a recent betrayal, past hurts are stored in the body and nervous system. By making EMDR training our practice standard, we ensure that we can help you heal at a neurological level, not just a conversational one.
Couples & Relationships
Does couples therapy really work?
Yes, but only if you are working with a specialist who understands relationship systems. We use the gold standards of care—EFT (Emotionally Focused Therapy) and the Gottman Method. These models are research-backed and designed to move you out of the “roommate phase” and back into a secure, intimate connection.
What if my partner refuses to come to therapy?
You don’t have to wait for your partner to change before you start your healing. We offer individual relationship therapy, where we work with you on your “parts” and your reactions. When one person in a system changes, the entire system has to adjust.
What is discernment counseling? This is a specialized path for couples where one person is “leaning in” to the marriage and the other is “leaning out.” It’s a short-term process (1–5 sessions) designed to help you find clarity and confidence about the future of your relationship without the pressure of an immediate fix.
Are you LGBTQIA+ affirming and Kink/Poly aware?
Yes. At Relevant Connections, we believe in the ‘Relevant Connection’ of your choice. We are a safe, affirming, and informed space for all relationship structures and identities. We recognize that traditional therapy models have often failed those in non-traditional relationships, and we are committed to providing care that is free of bias and focused on your unique goals and values.
Logistics & Investment
Do you take insurance?
We are an Out-of-Network provider. This allows us to protect your privacy, avoid unnecessary mental health “labels” required by insurance companies, and provide the highly specialized care your family deserves. We can provide you with a Superbill monthly, which many clients submit to their PPO or HSA for reimbursement.
How long are the sessions?
Standard individual and couples sessions are 50 minutes. However, for couples in high distress or those traveling from outside of Frisco, we often recommend extended 80-minute sessions to allow for deeper work and more significant breakthroughs.
Is my information private?
Absolutely. We utilize a secure, HIPAA-compliant portal called SimplePractice for all scheduling, messaging, and billing. Your confidentiality is a cornerstone of our practice.
Getting Started
How do I choose the right therapist for me?
The “fit” between you and your therapist is the greatest predictor of success. We encourage you to read through our [Meet the Team] page. If you aren’t sure who would be the best match for your specific “system,” our intake coordinator can help guide you during your discovery call.
What should I expect in the first session?
The first session is an assessment and a “vibe check.” We will explore your history, your goals, and the “Relevant Connections” we need to address. It is a low-pressure space for us to decide if we are the right team to help you reach your goals.