What is the approach to counseling at Relevant Connections?

At Relevant Connections, we take a holistic approach to your well-being. Our team of therapists comes from a variety of training backgrounds, but all share the foundational philosophy of client-centered care. This means that your therapy process will be collaborative and tailored to meet your specific treatment goals.

Therapeutic Frameworks

Family Systems: Our practice has a strong foundation in family systems, exploring multiple aspects of your life and history to provide comprehensive care.

Attachment-Based Therapy: We prioritize physical and emotional safety in relationships across all modalities.

Advanced Training: Our therapists hold advanced training in a range of techniques including Emotionally Focused Therapy, Gottman Therapy, Relational Life Therapy, Sex Therapy, and EMDR.

Areas of Specialty

Couples and Sex Therapy: At Relevant Connections, we understand the intricate relationship between emotional and sexual well-being. Whether conflict is causing sexual problems, or sexual issues are adding to the conflict, our therapists will work with you to create a tailored plan to improve both.

Individual Therapy: Many of our associate therapists specialize in individual therapy for a variety of issues including loss and grief, anxiety, and stress management.

First Responders and Trauma: We have contracted with local police departments to offer specialized trauma-informed care for first responders.

Continued Education

The therapists at Relevant Connections are committed to ongoing education to ensure that we are providing the most effective, evidence-based care possible.

No matter which therapist you work with, you can trust that you’re in good hands at Relevant Connections.

Do you work with both individuals and couples?

Absolutely, at Relevant Connections, we offer therapy services for both individuals and couples. We recognize that life’s challenges can affect us both personally and in our relationships, often intertwining the two.

For Individuals:

Whether you’re navigating personal challenges like anxiety, grief, or career stress, our therapists are here to provide you the support and tools you need to thrive.

For Couples:

We specialize in various couples therapy modalities aimed at improving communication, trust, and emotional intimacy. Our approach is tailored to meet the unique needs of each relationship, whether you’re dealing with conflict, intimacy issues, or seeking pre-marital counseling.

Individual Work in the Context of Relationships:

It’s important to note that even if challenges arise within a couple dynamic, meaningful progress can be made through individual therapy. Sometimes one partner’s personal growth can act as a catalyst for improvement in the relationship as a whole.

No matter your circumstance, our therapists are equipped and committed to helping you improve the quality of your life and relationships.

My partner doesn’t want to come to counseling. How should I handle this?

At Relevant Connections, we understand that taking the step to attend couples therapy is often a big decision and not always a mutual one. While it’s most effective when both partners are engaged in the process, we recognize that sometimes one partner may be hesitant or skeptical about therapy for various reasons—be it societal stigmas, personal apprehensions, or differing perceptions of the issues at hand.

A Different Perspective:

It’s crucial to understand that couples therapy isn’t just a last resort for a failing relationship. Many couples seek our services for what they consider to be a ‘relationship tune-up.’ Life events, such as career shifts, the arrival of a new child, or other transitions, often create stressors that affect relational dynamics. Therapy can help you navigate these challenges by enhancing communication and deepening your understanding of each other.

Starting Solo:

If your partner isn’t ready to join you yet, individual therapy can still offer valuable insights and skills to improve the relationship. Sometimes, one partner’s growth and changes can act as a catalyst for overall improvement in the relationship.

Addressing Concerns:

If you find that your partner is hesitant, it may be helpful to discuss what specifically is holding them back and assure them that therapy is a safe space for both of you to express yourselves and work towards common goals.

We invite you to connect with our team of trained professionals who are experienced in navigating such complexities, and are committed to assisting couples and individuals in achieving relational and emotional well-being.

Do you work with couples who are non-monogamous or poly?

Absolutely! At Relevant Connections, we strive to create an inclusive and affirming environment that celebrates diverse relationships and sexual orientations. We recognize that the ways in which people connect can be as unique as the individuals themselves. Some find fulfillment in monogamy, while others thrive in polyamorous or non-monogamous arrangements.

Embracing Complexity:

We understand that non-monogamous relationships can sometimes add layers of complexity—each with its unique challenges and rewards. Our team of therapists is trained to navigate these nuances sensitively, ensuring that each relationship dynamic is honored.

Fostering Healthy Connections:

The core principles of healthy relationships—trust, communication, and emotional safety—apply universally, regardless of how many partners are involved. Our aim is to assist you in establishing and maintaining these foundational elements in your relationships, to make them as fulfilling and rewarding as possible.

We welcome you to connect with our diverse team of skilled therapists, each of whom brings a wealth of experience in supporting all forms of relational configurations.

How do I know if sex therapy is right for me?

Navigating the landscape of human sexuality can be complicated. Whether you’re grappling with issues like difficulty achieving orgasm, experiencing pain during sexual activity, or facing challenges around sexual desire, our team at Relevant Connections is equipped to help.

A Spectrum of Concerns:

It’s not always clear-cut issues that bring people into sex therapy. Relationships are intricate, often harboring multiple layers of concerns that may or may not be overtly sexual. For instance, you might find yourself in a cycle of increased arguments and decreased sexual activity with your partner. The root cause could be a communication breakdown, underlying sexual issues, or a combination of both.

Our Approach:

Our therapists are trained in understanding the complexities of sexuality and relational dynamics. We conduct a comprehensive assessment to understand your unique circumstances and to develop a personalized treatment plan. Whether you come alone or with your partner, our objective is to collaborate with you in creating the relationship and sexual life that aligns with your desires.

By choosing to work with us, you’re taking a step towards a healthier, more satisfying relational and sexual experience. We invite you to reach out and begin your journey towards achieving the intimacy and connection you seek.

Who can benefit from family therapy?

Family therapy is a versatile modality that can serve a wide array of clients dealing with various challenges. Below are some common situations where families might find therapy particularly beneficial:

Communication Breakdowns

If your family is experiencing frequent misunderstandings, arguments, or emotional distancing, a family therapist can provide new communication tools and strategies.

Life Transitions

Major life changes such as divorce, remarriage, relocation, or the arrival of a new family member can cause stress and adjustment difficulties. Family therapy can provide a supportive environment to navigate these changes more smoothly.

Behavioral Issues in Children and Adolescents

Families with children or teens who are exhibiting behavioral issues, poor school performance, or emotional difficulties can find targeted strategies and support through family therapy.

Relationship Strains

Whether it’s marital problems, sibling rivalry, or extended family tensions, family therapy can offer a space for each member to express themselves openly and work toward resolving conflicts.

Illness or Loss

When a family member is dealing with a severe or chronic illness, or if the family is coping with the loss of a loved one, the emotional toll can be high. Family therapy offers a structured environment where these complex emotions can be safely explored and managed.

Substance Abuse or Addiction

Addiction doesn’t just affect the individual; it impacts the entire family. Family therapy can help families understand the nature of addiction, set boundaries, and work through the complexities of recovery.

Blended Families

Combining two families can be a source of stress and conflict, affecting everyone involved. Family therapy can help integrate family members more harmoniously, addressing issues like parenting styles, relationships among step-siblings, and adjustments to new living arrangements.

Coping with Trauma

Families who have experienced trauma, such as natural disasters, violence, or abuse, can find solace and constructive coping mechanisms through family therapy.

By addressing these and other issues in a confidential and supportive environment, family therapy can offer life-altering benefits. It’s worth noting that every family is different, and what works for one may not be effective for another. That’s why at Relevant Connections, we tailor our approach to the unique dynamics and challenges of your family, ensuring that therapy is a positive, productive experience for all involved.

Do you take insurance?

At Relevant Connections, we have made the decision not to accept insurance. The reason for this lies in the insurance requirement for a formal mental health diagnosis. Many of the issues that our clients face—ranging from relationship conflicts and infidelity to trauma—are not neatly categorized into conventional diagnostic frameworks.

Why It Matters:

We are committed to treating you as a whole person, not as a collection of symptoms. Assigning a formal diagnosis could become a part of your permanent health records, a step we feel may not be in line with our therapeutic approach and could potentially be stigmatizing.

Our Commitment:

Our focus is on providing the best possible care tailored to your unique circumstances. While this means we don’t work directly with insurance companies, many of our clients successfully get reimbursed for out-of-network benefits. We can provide you with a superbill to submit to your insurance provider for this purpose.

By choosing us for your therapy needs, you are opting for a model that prioritizes personalized, quality care over restrictive diagnostic labels.

What is the intake process like?

Step 1: Booking Your First Session

To begin your therapeutic journey with us, you can either book your initial consultation directly through our website or give us a call to arrange it for you. We make use of a secure and user-friendly online system called Simple Practice for effortless scheduling and payments. To secure your first appointment, we’ll ask for some basic information—your email, phone number, and credit card details. Your credit card information is stored securely in your portal to streamline the payment process after each session.

Step 2: Preparing for Your Session

Prior to your first appointment, you’ll receive digital paperwork to complete, which typically takes about 5 minutes. Among these forms is an intake questionnaire where you can share some background information and outline the issues you wish to focus on during therapy. Share as much or as little as you’re comfortable with—our conversations are confidential.

Step 3: Day-of Appointment Confirmation

On the day of your first session, your designated therapist will send you a text message to address any last-minute queries or concerns you might have. From there, you have the option to attend your session virtually through Simple Practice or join us in-person at our office location, depending on what you’ve arranged.

How Often Should Sessions Occur?

The frequency of your appointments will be a collaborative decision between you and your therapist, and will depend on your unique needs and treatment goals. Whether you’re an individual, a couple, or a family seeking guidance, we are here to work in tandem with you to determine the best plan of action.

How long are the counseling sessions?

Initial Consultation

Your first session with us is designed to be a comprehensive 70-minute consultation. This longer duration allows your therapist to get to know you better and understand the issues you’d like to address in therapy. It’s essential for laying the foundation of a therapeutic relationship and setting the tone for future sessions.

Follow-Up Sessions

After your initial session, standard appointments are typically 50 minutes in length. However, based on your specific needs and treatment goals, your therapist may recommend 90-minute extended sessions on a case-by-case basis. Please feel free to discuss this option with your therapist.

What is your cancellation policy?

We understand that life is unpredictable, schedules can change, and emergencies may arise. However, we ask that you please provide at least a 24-hour notice if you need to cancel or reschedule an appointment. For cancellations made on the same day of the appointment, a $100 late cancellation fee will apply. Failure to cancel before the session starts will result in a charge for the full session fee. If you have any concerns about this policy, we encourage you to discuss them directly with your therapist. 

A few other things you should know about us:

Multicultural Competency

At Relevant Connections, we understand the importance of cultural competence and the need to address the unique experiences of people from diverse ethnic backgrounds, sexual orientations, and social statuses. Our therapists are trained to offer a safe space that acknowledges, respects, and celebrates these differences.

Virtual Appointments

Due to the dynamic nature of modern life, as well as ongoing health and safety concerns, we offer the option of virtual sessions conducted through our secure platform, Simple Practice. This allows us to serve you no matter where you are.

Session Packages and Pricing

To provide you with multiple options and greater flexibility, we offer a range of session packages. These packages are designed to offer a cost-effective way to commit to a longer-term therapy process. Please consult your therapist for package details and pricing.

Confidentiality and Privacy

We uphold strict standards of confidentiality and privacy. All client information and discussions are kept strictly confidential, in accordance with ethical guidelines and legal requirements. Your trust and safety are paramount to us.

Emergency Protocol

While our therapists are highly trained, we are not an emergency service. In case of an immediate crisis, it is essential to consult emergency services or a crisis hotline. If you are experiencing a life-threatening emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.