Understanding CBT and Gaslighting

Is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy actually your therapist gaslighting you into doubting your feelings?

What If You Have ADHD and Never Knew It?

Could You Have ADHD and Not Know It?

If you’ve ever wondered, “Do I have ADHD?” and then immediately told yourself (or were told by a parent/teacher/doctor), “No way, I did well in school”… this one’s for you.

You can have ADHD and still be smart, successful, and seemingly “fine” from the outside.

In fact, that’s exactly why it gets missed—especially in women, girls, and high-achieving adults.

I’m Jennifer Branstetter, a licensed therapist working with adults in Indiana and Ohio. I help people who’ve spent years pushing through symptoms they didn’t know were symptoms—until burnout, anxiety, or executive dysfunction finally forced them to stop and look deeper.

Let’s talk about how ADHD hides in plain sight—and what therapy can do about it.

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Signs of ADHD You Might Have Missed

In grad school, we were taught to recognize symptoms with the stereotype of the kid bouncing off the walls. I distinctly remember them saying “These are the kids who will be crawling all over your office.” Unfortunately, this thinking causes us to miss a whole lot of kids and adults, especially those who’ve learned to mask it. Some signs include:

Always feeling overwhelmed, scattered, or behind

Starting a million things but finishing none

Constant mental noise and overthinking

Hyper-focus—losing hours in deep dives, then forgetting to eat or drink

Chronic procrastination, followed by panic-fueled productivity

Trouble with time (underestimating, overbooking, or completely losing track of it)

Emotional dysregulation—everything feels a lot. Especially being sensitive to how others feel about you

Struggling to rest, even when exhausted

You might also have a long history of anxiety, depression, or burnout—and no one ever asked, “Hey, could this be ADHD?”

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Why ADHD Gets Missed in Women and Girls

ADHD in women often gets overlooked because:

It doesn’t always look like hyperactivity—it shows up as daydreaming, anxiety, or basically hyperactivity of the mind

Many girls learn early to mask symptoms by overcompensating, people-pleasing, or becoming perfectionists

They get labeled “smart but scattered,” and teachers will say “she could do so well if she just applied herself!”

Women and high-functioning people in general often don’t get diagnosed until adulthood—after college, kids, a career change, or a health crisis pushes them past their limits and suddenly the compensation strategies don’t work anymore. I was 39 and had been a therapist for over 10 years when I was diagnosed!

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What About Giftedness or High Achievement?

Lots of people with ADHD were considered “gifted” as kids. They may have coasted through school until executive functioning demands outpaced their coping skills. Or the things that supported their executive dysfunction are suddenly gone. For instance, the structure of high school and family life often keep things together, but getting to college suddenly every day’s schedule is different and you are responsible for figuring out what/where/when to eat, when to do laundry, when/how to get the detergent, etc. Things can fall apart, and then you and the people around you wonder how someone so successful is having such a hard time “adulting.”

This is not about effort or intelligence. ADHD is a brain difference, not a failure.

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How Therapy Can Help

Whether you have a formal ADHD diagnosis or you're just starting to connect the dots, therapy can help you:

Identify and work with your neurodivergent brain (instead of constantly fighting it)

Create systems that support you to get things done

Unpack the shame and self-blame that comes from years of masking

Learn how to regulate emotions, set boundaries, and stand up for yourself

Get clarity on whether further ADHD evaluation makes sense for you

I work with adults in Indiana and Ohio who are navigating undiagnosed or late-diagnosed ADHD—especially women, people-pleasers, and burned-out overthinkers who’ve spent years holding it all together. It feels like neurodivergent folks attract each other, as I have had so many clients come to me for anxiety or depression, and we end up finding the root of the problem is undiagnosed ADHD.

You're Not Broken—You're Just Wired Differently

And once you understand your wiring, everything can start to make more sense. You don’t have to blame yourself for being unorganized and stressed out all the time - you can accept that your brain works differently and figure out how to work with it. Our world was built for neurotypicals, so it makes sense why we struggle to fit in. If we see it like a gap in skills, tools, or support, then it becomes a problem to be solved rather than a spiral of shame.

If this post feels a little too accurate, let’s talk.

Online therapy can be a safe place to explore ADHD, unmask a little, and build a life that actually works for you.

Click here to schedule a free consult or call/text 513-461-2045 to get started.

Online Therapy in Indiana & Ohio: What to Expect and Why It Actually Works

Let’s get this out of the way first: Online therapy isn’t a watered-down version of “real” therapy.

In fact, for a lot of people, it’s better.

If you live in Indiana or Ohio and you’re struggling with anxiety, burnout, ADHD symptoms, or just the existential dread of being a human in 2025, online therapy might be exactly what you need—especially if you're tired of one-size-fits-all mental health services.

I’m Jennifer Branstetter, a licensed therapist offering virtual therapy for adults in both Indiana and Ohio. I specialize in helping anxious people-pleasers, former gifted kids who feel stuck in adulthood, and adults navigating undiagnosed ADHD, chronic illness, or depression.

Let’s break down what online therapy actually looks like—and why it works.

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What Is Online Therapy?

Online therapy (also called virtual therapy or telehealth) is exactly what it sounds like: Therapy sessions that happen via a secure video platform, instead of in an office. It’s confidential, HIPAA-compliant, and can be just as effective as in-person therapy (backed by research and actual human experience). Most of us got used to telehealth in 2020 when therapists had to pivot immediately, and unfortunately it wasn’t always great. According to my licensing board, some therapists were showing up to sessions in their car, smoking, and drinking wine. That’s not professional online therapy. I’ve been working virtually from my home office since 2018, so there wasn’t a learning curve to adapt my practice.

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Who Online Therapy Helps Most

Online therapy isn’t right for everyone, but it’s a game-changer for people who:

Struggle with anxiety or sensory overwhelm and prefer the comfort of their own space

Have chronic illness, fatigue, or mobility challenges that make in-person therapy a chore

Are balancing a million things—like work, parenting, or caregiving—and need something that actually fits into their life - even in the middle of a workday

Live in Indiana or Ohio but don’t have easy access to therapists who get their specific challenges

Want therapy that’s tailored, practical, and grounded—not rigid or overly clinical

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“But What If It Feels Weird?”

It might at first - just like meeting a new therapist in their office. That’s normal. I even feel weird meeting a new therapist the first time. Many people feel more comfortable because they’re in their own environment. Now that video calls are so common, doing therapy on video isn’t that different.

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What to Know About Private Pay & Insurance

I’m a private pay therapist, which means I don’t bill insurance directly. I’m a better therapist when I get to decide with the client what type of therapy they get and how many sessions. Rather than spending hours chasing down claims, I have time to plan for sessions, collaborate with doctors, make referrals, and come to sessions from a balanced place.

Some clients use their out-of-network benefits to get partial reimbursement. If you want to explore that, I can provide a superbill (an itemized receipt with a diagnosis code) that you can submit to your insurance company.

Important note:

Insurance companies may request your records to process reimbursement.

They can choose to deny reimbursement based on diagnosis, provider type, or other criteria.

A mental health diagnosis is required for insurance reimbursement.

Some clients prefer private pay for the added privacy, flexibility, and control—no waiting for approval, no session caps, no surprise denials.

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Ready to Try Online Therapy?

Whether you’re in Indianapolis, Cincinnati, Columbus, Fort Wayne, or anywhere else in Indiana or Ohio—I’ve got space for you.

If you’ve been feeling overwhelmed, burned out, stuck in your head, or like life just hasn’t turned out how you expected, therapy can help.

You don’t have to figure this out alone.

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Let’s work together.

Click here to schedule a free consult or call/text 513-461-2045 to get started.

Avoiding Your Taxes (Again)? How Anxiety and ADHD Make Daunting Tasks Feel Impossible – and What to Do About It

Keep Avoiding Your Taxes? Here’s How Anxiety and ADHD Might Be Getting in the Way

The deadline to file taxes is fast approaching, and you’ve been putting it off. The pressure is building, yet you haven’t started. If you’re feeling the dread and shame that come with procrastinating on taxes, you’re not alone.

Many people with anxiety, ADHD, or both struggle with big, boring, or stressful tasks like this. You might think:

> “I know I need to do it… so why can’t I just get it done?”

As a therapist in Cincinnati who works with people dealing with anxiety and ADHD, I hear this all the time. I even experience this myself. This experience isn’t merely putting off a task you don’t like. The stress can be all-consuming. It’s a mix of dreading the task, shame from putting it off, and anxiety about how it’s going to go. If you do 1099 work and haven’t kept up on bookkeeping all year, the task of organizing your expenses can feel like a huge task.

Why Is This So Hard?

Here’s the truth: It’s not because you’re lazy.

Anxiety can make your brain go into “what if” mode:

What if I do it wrong?

What if I owe too much?

What if I mess this up?

ADHD makes it harder to start tasks, especially ones that feel boring or overwhelming. It’s hard to estimate how long it will actually take, and that ambiguity is hard to plan for. You might run into a question you aren’t sure about, or have to find something you weren’t expecting. The ambiguity coupled with the tedious nature of the task are like torture to an ADHD brain.

When anxiety and ADHD team up, it can feel almost impossible to get started. It can also start the shame spiral about money struggles and other tasks you have a hard time with.

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What’s Happening in Your Brain?

When your brain thinks a task is too big or too stressful, it goes into “protect mode.”

That might look like:

Procrastinating

Getting distracted

Feeling frozen

Feeling guilty

This is your brain trying to keep you safe—but it ends up causing more stress.

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5 Simple Tricks to Help You Get Started

If you start now, you don’t have to finish it all today. Just take one small step. These tips can help:

1. The 15-Minute Rule

Tell yourself: “I only have to do this for 15 minutes.”

Starting is often the hardest part. Once you begin, it might feel easier to keep going. Or you can stop and take a break. Getting started will give you more information about what to expect.

2. Work with Support

Try body doubling—doing the task while someone else is nearby, even virtually. Even telling someone that you’re doing your taxes at a specific time can provide some social pressure to get started.

3. Break It Down

Instead of “do taxes,” write out tiny steps like:

Find my W-2 or 1099

Log into my tax software

Enter my demographics

Gather all documents

Write out the list of all the tasks you’ll need to do so you can organize your brain and work on one thing at a time. When you cross it off, give yourself a treat or a quick break. Reward yourself like a dog.

4. Be Kind to Yourself

Realize that you are not alone. Many high achieving, smart, and competent people also procrastinate on their taxes. This is not a time for moral judgment. It’s a time for compassion and understanding - this is a royal pain and many people are also in the same boat. Decide on a reward for when you finish.

5. Set the mood to support productivity

If you’ve got ADHD, you need a boost of energy and dopamine to focus. If you’re on a task of gathering documents or entering information like copy/paste, play music that hypes you up and makes you feel good. For example, a Xennial might use a 90’s Alternative playlist to remind you of a time you wished to be an adult with all these freedoms. Once you’re on a task where you have to think, then you might need some instrumental music or white noise to concentrate.

Movement can also help. Move your body before starting and on breaks, or even while you’re working.

If you’re really struggling and it helps, caffeine and sugar can give you a boost of energy. No judgment. We’re going for whatever is going to get this big task done before the deadline. Know your body though and be mindful of a blood sugar crash that may be coming.

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Is It More Than Just Procrastination?

If this happens a lot—at work, with bills, or with simple tasks—it might be time to get support.

Therapy can help you:

Understand your brain

Feel less stuck

Build tools that work for you

Be gentler with yourself

You don’t have to keep pushing through alone.

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Looking for a therapist to help you manage ADHD and Anxiety?

You don’t need to wait until things get worse.

Let’s take that first step together.

If you’re in Ohio or Indiana, reach out today to schedule a free consultation or learn more about how therapy can help. Call/text me at 513-461-2045 or click here to schedule a call.

How Anxiety Therapy Helps in 2025: Managing Stress from Economic Uncertainty and the Impact of New Policies

Why Anxiety Is Rising in 2025

Many of us in the U.S. are feeling a lot more anxious than usual. Similar to the Covid pandemic, major shifts in society that are unpredictable and out of our control are driving feelings of uncertainty and vulnerability, which feed anxiety. Our brains are wired for survival, so this anxiety is actually a normal response to a threat to stability.

The Psychological Impact of Economic and Political Changes

Some policy changes are going to cause real vulnerability in terms of financial and physical security for many people, so feelings of anger or fear are warranted. Social and emotional threats aren’t just about hurt feelings - we are wired for connection, and are interdependent as humans. Distress is coming from both the tangible consequences of social injustice and the disruption of close personal relationships due to political differences.

Many of us are already seeing the impact in our own lives or communities, so anger or fear aren’t pathological symptoms that need to be rationalized; but, staying in an activated fear state is not going to be sustainable. How do you know if the stress is impacting your health?

Common warning signs you might need help are:

• Inability to relax your body or shift into rest. Your mind doesn’t shut off, and you can’t stop thinking about what’s going on. You’re constantly scrolling for news, looking for perspectives from others who might reassure you or give some sort of answer or direction, but it never calms down (or ramps right back up).

• Physical symptoms of muscle tension, racing heart, sweating, headaches, shaking, or fatigue (not related to a medical cause).

• Insomnia, waking in the middle of the night in a panic, waking too early. Or sleeping too much, not wanting to face the day.

• You’re not doing the things you normally would, like exercise or hobbies. Or when you try, you’re not enjoying them like you used to or you can’t concentrate long enough to do something like read a book.

• Withdrawing from people.

• Consistently worrying about what’s going to happen. Again sometimes the worry or negative prediction is actually true. But if you’re constantly catastrophizing and worrying about many things in life, that might be a warning sign.

Evidence-Based Ways to Cope with Uncertainty

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy is one of the most evidence-based treatments for anxiety. CBT is focused on rationalizing your thoughts by examining the evidence for and against your anxious thought. Often when we feel uncertain, there’s a lack of confidence that we can cope with the feared outcome. In CBT we can focus on the evidence that you can cope - looking at past successes, for instance. You can also look at the evidence on a bigger scale and see when society has faced a similar crisis, how did people overcome? What actions can we take in our personal lives, and as a community to move forward? Do we have those capabilities?

Mindfulness is another approach that is my own go-to for uncertainty and racing thoughts. Mindful breathing is a tool we can use wherever we are to bring ourselves out of the thoughts and into our bodies, into the present moment. You might have to do it over and over, but over time it does get easier.

Finding solutions for the tangible problems also helps uncertainty. If you’re facing economic uncertainty because you may be laid off or you’re struggling with inflation, lay out some steps you can take. Working on your resume, networking, or working on your budget can help you feel more in control of your life. If you’re facing an urgent issue around immigration or employment law, seek out advice from legal counsel.

Set boundaries with social media and news consumption. This is tough when you want to be informed, so determine where you want to get your information and set a timer for how long you’re going to spend. Maybe write out the questions you want answered before you even open your phone or computer, and stick to finding the information then getting out.

Connect with others. It can help immensely to talk with other people who are also going through the same thing. Particularly if you can talk on the phone or in person. Sharing the struggle and having a sense of connection can ease some of the anxiety. It can also help if you feel like you are part of a solution with others.

Go outside. Connect with nature. Last week in the Cincinnati area, we had a really warm day for the middle of winter. It’s amazing how getting outside can lift the mood, make you feel connected with something bigger than yourself, and remind you that the world has been here a long time and weathered so many storms before now.

Deciding to Seek Professional Help for Anxiety

If you’re doing all you can to manage anxiety on your own but still find yourself overwhelmed, it’s time to find an anxiety therapist. Will a therapist fix what’s going on? Unfortunately no (though licensed Social Workers sure try!). But a therapist can help you process and get un-stuck so you can move forward. Being overwhelmed by anxiety can keep you from taking action that can help you, as well as others. Therapy can be a place to process the emotions productively so you can get back into living your life.

Finding the right therapist can make a big difference in your life. If you’re ready to start, click here to schedule a free 15-minute consultation with an experienced online anxiety therapist from Cincinnati today for virtual counseling in Indiana and Ohio. Or call/text 513-461-2045.

Finding the Right Depression Therapist in Cincinnati: Your Guide to Effective Treatment Options

Introduction: Why Seeking Help for Depression Matters

Depression is a beast. It can be triggered by an event or difficult time in life, or it can seemingly creep in out of nowhere and take control of your life. If you’ve tried to cope on your own but still feel the crushing weight of depression, it’s time to get help.

There are many treatment options for depression, and therapy is one of the most effective ways to heal. A good therapist can also help you navigate other options like medication and lifestyle changes if therapy alone isn’t cutting it. Seeking help for depression can start to give you some hope like a light at the end of the tunnel, and you deserve to get support to start feeling better.

The good news is, many licensed therapists can treat depression. It’s one of the more common mental health diagnoses we see, and there are several evidence-based treatments for depression specifically. In Cincinnati, there are many therapists who treat depression as a specialty or in their wheelhouse.

What to Look for in a Depression Therapist in Cincinnati

If you’re looking for depression help in Cincinnati, you’ll find several types of treatment. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy is one of the most common because there’s a lot of evidence behind it. You will also find more brain or body-based treatments like EMDR or Somatic Experiencing. You can call a few different types of therapists for a consultation and see which approach seems like it would be the best fit for you.

For some people, medication is part of treatment. Your therapist can refer you to a psychiatrist, or collaborate with your doctor to be sure you’re getting the best care from a team approach.

Another great option for treatment is group therapy. There are depression treatment groups in Cincinnati, as well as virtually in Ohio and Indiana. Your therapist can help you find these resources.

How to Choose the Best Depression Therapist for You

The best way to find the right therapist is to call a few who seem promising, and do a quick consultation. Speaking by phone or on video is a great way to gauge whether you click with that therapist as a person, and to determine if that particular approach fits what you need.

Conclusion: Start Your Journey to Better Mental Health

Are you ready to get depression help in Cincinnati, or anywhere in Ohio or Indiana? Click here to schedule a free 15-minute consultation with an experienced online depression therapist from Cincinnati today for virtual counseling in Indiana and Ohio. Or call/text 513-461-2045.

Finding the Right Psychiatrist in Cincinnati: A Step-by-Step Guide

You’ve made the decision to see a psychiatrist for a medication evaluation, and now you don’t know where to start. Finding a psychiatrist can be overwhelming, so I’d like to help walk through how I help clients find and schedule with the right person who can help.

Leveraging Referrals: Your First Step in Finding a Psychiatrist

The easiest way to find a psychiatrist is to get a referral from one of your other providers. Often a primary care office will have someone they regularly refer to, or have a list of doctors. Your therapist might have someone they like, or know who is in the area, who is taking new patients, and who to stay away from. You can also ask your OBGYN! They treat a lot of anxiety and depression, and will usually have a psychiatrist they’ll send patients to if their symptoms aren’t getting better. 

Navigating Insurance: Ensuring Coverage for Your Mental Health Needs

If you need to use your insurance, you will want to make sure the psychiatrist is In-Network. You can call the number on the back of your insurance card, and they’ll give you a list of who is nearby. While you’re talking with them, verify how much you’ll pay out of pocket for the appointments. You can also do a search on your insurance company’s website by location. This will give you options to start narrowing down. 

Utilizing Online Resources: Tips for Finding Psychiatrists Near You

Look for “psychiatry near me,” or by region like “psychiatrist Oxford Ohio” or “psychiatry in Cincinnati.” This will bring up a list to review. Remember, not everyone reviews their psychiatrist so don’t let the lack of reviews dissuade you! It does help though to see if they have good reviews, and especially if they have a website. You might also see Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners (NP) or Physicians Assistants (PA) in the list as well.

Making the Call: Steps to Schedule Your First Appointment

Once you have a name or a list of names, start calling. You want to ask, “Are you taking new patients?” first, and then “How soon is your next available appointment?” With a shortage of psychiatrists, some practices have waiting lists of a couple of months. If that’s the case, decide whether you can wait that long and keep trying other offices if you can’t. 

Ask about the fee.

While many psychiatrists take insurance, some do not. That doesn’t mean you can’t use your insurance, though! If you have Out of Network benefits, then you may be able to get reimbursed.  Ask if they provide a receipt for insurance. If paying out of pocket, ask what the fee is for the first appointment, and then for follow-ups. You can ask how often you’ll typically see the doctor so you can plan for that financially. 

Review your options and schedule.

You might call a few places to get an idea about the practice and availability. When you’re ready, book your first appointment! The initial assessment will be a longer appointment (around an hour), so plan around that. Understand that you might not get your ideal appointment time, but once you’re in the system, follow-up appointments are easier to schedule. Those are typically 15 minute med checks. 

Exploring Telehealth Options: Accessing Psychiatrists from Anywhere

Psychiatrists in private practice, as well as those using online platforms like Teladoc or Doctor on Demand, are available via telehealth. They will be licensed in your state, but might live elsewhere. The benefit of this is they’re easier to get into and the scheduling is easy for you without the drive. The downside is that they can be harder to get ahold of if it’s through one of the apps. It’s been hit-or-miss for me to collaborate with those types of providers, so consider that. You can also get started online while you’re waiting for an in-person appointment. Laws and clinic policies vary on prescribing controlled substances (typically used with ADHD, panic disorder, or insomnia) via telehealth.

I hope this makes it easier to get an appointment with a psychiatrist. If you’re having trouble finding someone, feel free to call me at 513-461-2045 or click here to schedule a free 15 minute phone consultation. I’d be happy to help guide you to the right person. If you’re looking for help with online anxiety counseling in Cincinnati, or online therapy in Indiana or Ohio, you can read more about how I help here.

Navigating Anxiety Treatment in Cincinnati: Do I need a Psychiatrist vs. Counselor?

When you’re at your breaking point with anxiety or depression and are ready to reach out for help, you might be wondering who can help you. One big question is whether you need to see a psychiatrist or a counselor. It’s important to know the difference, so you can get the help that’s right for you. I’d like to explore what each professional does, so you can be on the road to feeling better. In my next blog post, I talk about the ins and outs of scheduling with each.

Understanding Psychiatrists: Medication Evaluation and Management

Psychiatrists have gone to medical school, and got specialized training in treating mental health disorders with medicine. A psychiatrist is going to be well-versed in antidepressants, anti-anxiety medication, mood stabilizers, as well as antipsychotics for more severe illness. They have also had training in screening for any medical causes for your symptoms. They may run lab work or ask your medical history to determine if something is contributing (like a vitamin deficiency, thyroid issue, anemia, etc) before writing a prescription. 

Typically, a psychiatrist does not provide much counseling. 

Your first appointment will be a diagnostic assessment, where you answer a lot of questions to determine what the diagnosis is, then discuss treatment options. This may take an hour. Follow-up appointments are usually 15 minute medication check-ups. So you’ll talk about your symptoms, side-effects, and any changes they’ll want to make. You’ll usually see a nurse as well to take vitals and your weight to monitor any changes. 

Psychiatrists are people, too, and they are all different! 

Some may take more of an interest in your lifestyle and stressors. Some may suggest therapy exercises, books, or even diet and supplements. Some may not talk at all about this and simply treat your symptoms medically. They should ask if you’re in therapy, if you’ve tried it, and offer to refer you if you’re interested. You may also see a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner or a Physician’s Assistant who are also trained and able to prescribe medications (state laws vary on what they can prescribe, and if they have to collaborate with a physician). A great psychiatrist will be open to talking with your therapist so you can have a team approach to your treatment. 

Understanding Counselors: Therapeutic Solutions for Symptom Relief

A counselor or therapist is generally a Masters level professional trained in the treatment of mental health disorders. We do not prescribe medications (there are outliers where someone is doubly-licensed though!). They may have a Masters degree in Social Work, Counseling, Marriage and Family Therapy, or Psychology (depending on the state, they might be required to have a PhD or PsyD in Psychology). We are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat the same mental health disorders that a psychiatrist would; however, we treat with therapeutic techniques like talk therapy instead of medications. 

Each therapist is trained differently.

There are a variety of evidence-based treatments that can help you based on your specific problem. In the initial appointment, which can last 45-90 minutes depending on the counselor, you’ll be asked a lot of questions about your symptoms, environment, medical history, family history, and goals for therapy. We’ll want to know what medications you’ve taken, if any, as well as any relevant lab results or medical problems contributing to your symptoms (referring you to a doctor if needed). 

If you have a medical issue that is likely causing your anxiety or depression, then we’ll want that assessed and treated before digging into therapy. A great therapist will want to collaborate with your PCP (primary care provider) or psychiatrist so you have a whole team approach to treatment. 

Some counselors have more experience with medications than others.

We also have various beliefs about medications. This is important for you to know and to know yourself when deciding on a therapist. For instance, some clients don’t want to be pushed to take meds. So you don’t want a therapist who routinely refers everyone to psychiatry! Or on the flip side, if your medication is working well for you and you want to continue, you may not do well with a therapist who doesn’t believe medications should be routinely prescribed. 

Navigating Treatment Paths: Collaboration and Communication

Most of us have been trained to work with you where you are, regardless of personal belief, and have a base knowledge about medication. Often in my practice, this is an ongoing conversation. Many people want to try therapeutic or lifestyle changes before starting medicine. If therapy isn’t helping, it’s our responsibility as professionals to seek to understand why, and to change course, or make a referral to a different therapist, doctor, or psychiatrist if it’s appropriate.

I hope this helps to understand the difference in your options for medication or anxiety therapy in Cincinnati. Ready to embark on your journey to better mental health? Call/text me at 513-461-2045 or click here to schedule your free consultation today for virtual anxiety therapy in Cincinnati. Online therapy in Indiana and Ohio.

Your Guide to Finding the Right Anxiety Therapist in Cincinnati

Are you struggling to find the best therapist in Cincinnati to address your anxiety or depression? There is no one best or perfect therapist! But finding the right therapist for you is super important. In fact, the relationship you build with your therapist will determine your outcomes.

It’s important to me that every person looking for help can connect with a great therapist, feel better, and have a positive impression of mental health treatment. Far too many people have bad experiences, stop going, and continue to suffer in silence. This is not okay. I want to help you find the right therapist quickly. 

Seek Referrals for Anxiety Therapy in Cincinnati

Word of mouth is one of the best ways to find a great anxiety therapist in Cincinnati. If someone recommends their therapist, or maybe you’ve seen someone really transform their lives, ask who they are seeing! You want to find a counselor who gets great outcomes, whose clients rave about them.  

Medical providers, massage therapists, hair stylists.. Think about the people you see regularly, who could recommend a mental health counselor. Doctors may have a list, or they might refer you to someone in their hospital network. It helps if they can do a “warm hand-off” and give the therapist a heads-up before you call.

You can also look at reviews, but remember that people are more likely to give negative reviews online than remember to review their amazing counselor. So don’t let a lack of reviews dissuade you. 

Interview Multiple Therapists Before Committing

As people, we all have different personalities, experiences, and problems. Expecting one therapist to help everyone is just not realistic! So when searching for the perfect therapist for you, it’s important to understand that you may need to meet a few therapists before you connect with one. Even if your friend raves about her therapist, you may not click or they may not specialize in what you need!

I know, you don’t want to tell your life story over and over. Don’t! Most therapists will do a free brief consultation, so please take advantage of this and have a conversation to see if this is a person you can talk to. If it’s not a good fit during the call, a great therapist will help refer you to someone else who can help. 

Utilize Your Health Insurance Provider

If you have to use your health insurance, then the first place you’ll start is to either call the number on the back of your card, or you can log in online and do a provider search. From there, I recommend looking at a few and again calling for a consult. 

Look at your benefits! You may have great out of network benefits, meaning you don’t have to find someone in-network in order for part of it to be reimbursed. You might also be able to use your FSA or HSA to pay for all of the out of pocket fee. If you’re not sure, calling your insurance company is super helpful. I also help potential clients figure this out, because insurance is so confusing. 

Explore Online Directories and Local Searches

Therapist directories allow you to search by zip code. These directories seem to go through changes periodically where many therapists will shift to another one. Most directory listings are paid, and therapists usually aren’t privy to the algorithms that allow you to find their profile. But they can be handy to find someone quickly. With many of us online right now, you don’t have to be limited to your area - just your state where the therapist is licensed. But consider staying local if you’d like to attend in-person at some point.

You can also search for something like “anxiety therapist near me,” or “counseling in Cincinnati.” This will give you a list of people who have a physical office location and Google business listing. You can see who has websites, social media, etc. Some long-established practices have worked through word of mouth for so long they haven’t needed to get online. That can be a challenge for those of us who want to research before cold calling a potential therapist.

Stay Open-Minded and Persistent

Remember that the right therapist for you may not be the one you expect. Being open to the process will help with any anxiety or hesitation about starting counseling. Generally, therapists are really nice people. So this isn’t like calling your cable company’s customer service line. Our job is to do our best to make you feel better, even if it doesn’t lead to a therapy relationship with us!

Ready to Take the Next Step?

If you're still struggling to find the right counselor in Cincinnati, or anywhere in Ohio or Indiana, call/text me at 513-461-2045. Or click here to schedule a free 15-minute consultation for online therapy for anxiety treatment in Cincinnati, or anywhere in Ohio and Indiana.

Choosing the Right Anxiety Therapist in Cincinnati: 5 Essential Questions to Ask

When you’re struggling emotionally, reaching out for help can be both exciting and intimidating. If you’ve gotten to the point of making a phone call to a counselor, then there’s something in you that knows relief may be on the other side. But if this is your first time calling a therapist, you don’t know who is going to answer or if they can even help you. That can be scary, and might prevent you from taking action and feeling better. I want to help. 

Research shows that the most important factor determining your success in counseling is the relationship with your therapist. This is huge! Regardless of the therapist’s experience, skills, or techniques, it’s really important that you like your therapist! I’d like to walk you through a few important questions to ask a prospective therapist in Cincinnati to help determine if they’re going to be a good fit. The goal is to know by the end of the call whether you feel confident and excited to schedule an appointment, or if you need to keep looking. 

Note: These questions can also be asked via email, but I really encourage you to get on the phone or video to see if you “click.” This also drastically lowers the anxiety anticipating your first session. 

What is your therapy specialty?

You can ask what type of therapy they do, or what types of problems they usually help with. It’s okay if you don’t know what you’re looking for! The therapist might tell you they specialize in specific diagnoses (like anxiety or depression), or they use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), or they work with couples or children. This will start to paint a picture of what type of practice they have. It’s also an easy first question to ask when you’re nervous.

How long and how frequent are therapy sessions?

Depending on the practice (if they take insurance or if they’re with an agency), this can vary. The typical structure is a 45-50 minute session, weekly to start. However, this is typically dictated by insurance and what they’ll pay for. If you’re not using insurance, many therapists still use that type of schedule. Sometimes the first session is 90 minutes to do a full assessment. 

Private practice therapists might also offer longer sessions to do more intense work, shorter and more frequent sessions, or even immersive retreats. Some therapists will ask for a commitment up front (like weekly sessions for 8 weeks) so you’re much more likely to make progress rather than coming in “as needed.” This is all really good information to have before your first session! 

How much does therapy cost?

If you’re using health insurance, you’ll want to know if your therapist is “in network.” If they’re out of network, you still might be able to use your benefits for reduced cost (they may reimburse a portion of the fee, or it will count toward your deductible). You may be able to use your Health Savings Account card for therapy, even if they’re out of network. I have clients doing this, and it works out great.

If they are “in network,” then the cost will be determined by your insurance plan. The best way to know this is to call the number on your insurance card and ask how much mental health therapy costs. You might have a copay, or coinsurance. The therapist won’t know this for you ahead of time, but most of us will certainly help you figure it out, because insurance can be SO confusing. 

If they’re out of network, or if you don’t want to use insurance because of privacy reasons, then the fee will be per session, usually paid at the time of session. My system automatically charges for invoices every night at midnight. You can ask how and when fees are paid so you know. I once saw a therapist in college who only took cash or check, but that was a LONG time ago.

Can you address my specific needs?

If the therapist didn’t ask yet what you need help with, it’s important to let them know what’s going on. You don’t need to tell your life story, but in general a couple sentences about what prompted you to make the call. Are you overwhelmed and need help figuring out next steps? Have you been moody and irritable, and your partner or coworkers have noticed? Are you having problems in a relationship? Do you have a history of depression and want to get back into therapy to stay on track? 

Asking the therapist how they help specifically will give them a chance to say what makes them different. They might tell you their theory or techniques, or what happens in sessions. This will set some expectations for what therapy will look like, and you can decide if it feels like the right direction to go.

What are your thoughts on…?

This one is open for anything you’re specifically concerned about. Some people are adamantly opposed to medication, and they don’t want to be referred to psychiatry. Others might need a therapist who is well-versed in psychotropic medications who can work closely with their prescriber. You might be looking for someone who comes from a holistic background, who works with chronic pain patients, or who has experience with harm reduction substance abuse treatment. You might need someone who is specifically experienced with LGBT relationships, Christian counseling, or the kink community. 

If you’re having a thought like, “I hope they aren’t like this/I hope they understand/I hope they don’t just say this,” then now is the time to feel them out! Unfortunately, I’ve had some clients who have had disappointing experiences with therapists in the past. Let’s try to nip that in the bud. 

I hope this helps in your search for the right therapist. It’s okay if you don’t feel a connection, since we’re all human. I recommend calling a handful of therapists so you can see how each is different, and to save you the trouble of going to an initial session and not returning. 

If you’re still feeling unsure, feel free to call/text me at 513-461-2045 or click here to schedule a free 15-minute phone consultation for online anxiety therapy in Cincinnati, or anywhere in Ohio or Indiana. You can read more about how I help here.