Question 1

What is therapy and how does it work?

Accepted Answer

We are challenged by so much in our lives, whether in our mental and physical health, our relationships and family, our personal identity, our professional and creative pursuits, or our ability to cope with transition and trauma. Therapy allows you to discuss your personal concerns and struggles with a qualified licensed clinician.
 
I believe we all have the capacity to deepen knowledge of our inner selves in order to release painful, confusing experiences and move forward toward reaching our goals. Therapy and counseling (https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/psychotherapy/about/pac-20384616)have been scientifically proven to help clients develop effective coping and problem-solving skills, improve health of relationships, make behavioral changes, reduce depression and anxiety, resolve past trauma, and improve overall quality of life.

Everyone comes to therapy for different reasons and with different goals, so the process of therapy will look different for everyone. In general, therapy sessions with me will involve: discussion of current stressors, your personal history, and your goals. The more involved you are in therapy sessions, the more likely you are to achieve results. However, change can be slow, frustrating, and at times difficult. Therapy is not easy, and there are no instant cures. I will stand by you throughout it. I am committed to creating a supportive space, without judgment, where we can do this work together. In time, relief from pain can occur, often followed by deeper levels of personal satisfaction.
 
Therapy sessions are between 50 and 60 minutes in length and typically occur once per week either in my private office in Savannah or via secure telehealth platform. I provide both short- and long-term treatment depending on your needs.

Question 2

How do I know you're the right therapist for me?

Accepted Answer

Put simply, only you can decide that. I encourage all clients to do their research (https://www.thecut.com/2017/12/a-beginners-guide-to-finding-the-right-therapist.html)and try out a few therapists before making a decision. You may consider scheduling a free 15-minute phone consultation with me.

It may also be helpful to know who I typically see in my practice. At this time, I only see adults (18+) who reside in either Georgia or New York. I specialize in working with: depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, reproductive and maternal mental health, sexual health, relationship problems, and LGBTQ+ issues. I also have extensive experience working with artists and anyone struggling with self-expression and creative pursuits.

If you’d like to know more about me, please click here.(javascript:void(0)) You can also follow me on Facebook.(https://www.facebook.com/bridgetcrossLCSW)

Question 3

Is this confidential?

Accepted Answer

Yes. I am bound by law to not disclose anything about you (or the fact that I am your therapist) without your written permission.

There may be times when you find it useful for me to have contact with someone in your life, such as your family member, doctor, or psychiatrist. In these situations, you may sign a consent form allowing me to do so.

There are also some exceptions to confidentiality. Because I am a mandated reporter, I am required to report any potential or suspected child abuse, elder abuse, or if I feel you are a danger to yourself or others. Feel free to ask (javascript:void(0))any questions for clarification.

Question 4

Do you take health insurance?

Accepted Answer

I am an in-network provider with Memorial Health Partners and Candler/The Care Network. For all other insurances, I am an out-of-network provider and can provide a superbill for reimbursement when needed.

Question 5

What are your fees?

Accepted Answer

My current rate is $175 for individual therapy, $200 for couples or family therapy. I can accept payment by credit card, HSA card, debit card, cash, or check.

I offer a limited amount of sliding-scale spots for those with limited means. Please contact (javascript:void(0))me directly to discuss!

Question 6

Do I have to take medication?

Accepted Answer

Only if you want to. Research shows that the most reliable long-term solution to depression and anxiety is typically a combination of medication and therapy. However, every mind and every body is different.

As I am not a licensed prescriber, I can discuss your options with you and help you process any concerns about taking medication. I always encourage clients to work closely with their medical doctor to determine the best choice of treatment.

When appropriate, I can provide referral for you to a prescribing provider and work with that provider to coordinate your mental health care.

Question 7

Can I bring my baby?

Accepted Answer

Definitely! It is always your choice whether it’s best for you to bring your baby to your session or not. However, babies (up till age 2) are always welcome to accompany you. If your session is via telehealth, it is never a problem if your kids or pets are present, as long as you are comfortable.

I aim to provide a calm, comforting environment where you can feel at ease while feeding, nursing, or caring for your child. Contact (javascript:void(0))me so we can talk more about how I help support your needs.

Question 8

What if I'm not sure this is right for me now?

Accepted Answer

I get it. Starting therapy can be daunting for many different reasons. It requires time, money, and emotional energy. Finding a therapist whose training and personality fits well with your needs takes effort. And for most of us, asking for help is not easy. For all these reasons, I offer a free 15-minute consultation (https://calendly.com/bridgetcrosslcsw/15min)so you can discuss your concerns, ask me any questions, and feel out whether this seems like a good fit for you.

If it’s not, I totally understand and can offer referrals for other qualified providers who might better meet your needs.

Question 9

Do you offer telehealth sessions?

Accepted Answer

Yes! I offer telehealth sessions via secure video platform for non-local Georgia clients and for clients in New York State. For clients in the Savannah area, telehealth sessions are also available as needed.

Calls are easy to access from phone, tablet, or computer. If you are using health insurance, please confirm coverage with your insurance carrier before scheduling.

Question 10

How do I get started?

Accepted Answer

Schedule a free phone consultation. (https://calendly.com/bridgetcrosslcsw/15min)If I’m not accepting new patients or if I don’t have availability that suits your schedule, I can offer you referrals. You can also always try contacting me again in the future.

If we do schedule an initial visit, I will send you an email with a secure link to all of the paperwork you will need to complete online before your appointment. This can sometimes feel like a lot to do, but I find it’s very helpful to get this out of the way in advance so we can spend your session focusing on what you want to talk about.

Question 11

Where is your office and can I park there?

Accepted Answer

For local clients scheduling in-person visits, my office is located in the Starland District of Savannah at 2431C Habersham Street (https://www.google.com/maps/place/2431+Habersham+St,+Savannah,+GA+31401/@32.052778,-81.0994267,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x88fb9e1874a611f3:0xad330dab50fcf1ec!8m2!3d32.0527735!4d-81.097238?shorturl=1)(2nd floor) – directly across the street from Green Truck Pub.

There are 3 free parking spaces available at the base of the stairwell on East 41st Street. There is also plenty of free street parking on Habersham and in the surrounding neighborhood.