Frequently Asked Questions

How do we start working together?

I believe in the importance of a mutual therapeutic match. To explore if we are a good fit, I encourage a free and brief phone consultation. Please reach out by phone (443-336-7150) or e-mail (sam@samanthamorrelltherapy.com) to request a consultation. To schedule a full 50-min session, you may do so through my website (samanthamorrelltherapy.com), by phone or e-mail. Next, I will send you a secure link to my confidential client portal. In the client portal, you will find several forms that need to be completed before you come in for your first session.

What can I expect during the first few sessions?

The purpose of the first few sessions is to get to know one another. I want you to feel safe and comfortable in sharing whatever you want with me, and I understand that can take some time. At your own pace, we will discuss your history, current situation and concerns, and identify your goals for therapy. During the first few sessions, I may also ask for your permission to contact previous providers in order to obtain past treatment information.

What are your areas of expertise?

My areas of expertise include trauma-informed care, crisis intervention and psychodynamic therapy. I specialize in empowering individuals who struggle with traumas related to major life adjustments, low self-esteem, depression, anxiety, sexual trauma, domestic violence, self-harm and suicide.

What is your therapeutic style?

I believe that every individual is unique and resilient. With that being said, I do not believe one therapeutic approach fits all. My therapeutic style is customized according to your needs, wants, experiences and strengths. It is my job to meet you where you are. As we get to know each other, we will work towards finding the style that feels most comfortable.

How much does a session cost?

The standard rate for a 50-min session is $180. Payment is due in full at the time of your appointment. I accept electronic payment through the client portal, Square, Venmo, PayPal and Zelle. I also accept most major credit cards, with the exception of American Express.

What are your office hours?

I no longer offer in-office appointments. I am 100% virtual. Telehealth appointments are available by appointment only Monday through Thursday, 9:00am – 4:30pm, and on Friday from 9:00am to 3:00pm (major holidays excluded).

Are you accepting new clients?

Yes, I am accepting new clients.

Why therapy? How can you help?

Therapy is a scientifically proven process that empowers individuals to lead healthier and happier lives through the use of clinical techniques. As your therapist, I am your “guide on the side.” It is my role to help you uncover strengths, identify maladaptive patterns and acquire new skills that enable you to effectively deal with life’s challenges.

How do I know when it’s time to start therapy?

Therapy can be preventive and reactive. For instance, if you approach mental health with a preventative care mindset, you can catch and treat downward trends in your emotional well-being before they become bigger problems. It is a misconception that therapy is only for people with severe mental health illness or people who are on the brink of a breakdown. This is simply untrue. No one is immune to feeling depressed, stressed, overwhelmed, angry, scared or anxious. These are very common and normal human emotions, and you are the expert in determining when “enough is enough!”

What is your clinical background? What are your credentials?

I am a licensed independent clinical social worker in the District of Columbia and Florida. I obtained my master’s degree in clinical social work from the University of Pennsylvania, and a bachelors degree in honors psychology from the University of Maryland.

For nearly 15 years, I have worked in a multitude of clinical settings, offering therapy for traumas related to suicide, rape, anxiety, domestic violence, depression, sexual abuse, low self-esteem, self-injurious behavior, and major life adjustments. I have served in homeless shelters, crisis centers, safe houses, drop-in centers, elementary schools, an inpatient psychiatric hospital for children and adolescents and two level-1 trauma hospitals.

Do you accept insurance?

No, I do not accept insurance. However, if you plan to use out-of-network benefits, I can supply you with a receipt of payment for services that you can submit for reimbursement. Please note that not all insurance companies reimburse for out-of-network providers, so I encourage you to contact your insurance before we meet to ensure eligibility.

What should I ask my insurance company?

My services may be reimbursable through your plan’s out-of-network mental health benefits. Prior to beginning treatment, I encourage you to verify your coverage by asking your insurance the following:

  • Does my plan include coverage for out-of network mental health services?
  • How much does my plan cover for an out-of-network provider?
  • What is my deductible for out-of-network services, and has it been met?
  • Do I have a session limit?
  • What form(s) do I need for submitting my invoice(s) to receive my out-of-network benefits?

How often do we meet?

For continuity, I prefer to meet with clients once a week. However, we can coordinate and accommodate a schedule that works best with your preferences and finances.

Is everything I share with you confidential?

Everything you share in therapy is confidential with a few exceptions:

1. If I feel that you are in immediate danger to yourself or others, I can break confidentiality to keep you/others safe.

2. If I hear about the abuse (or suspected abuse) of anyone under the age of 18, an elderly person or someone with a disability, I am legally mandated to report it.

3. If confidential information is subpoenaed in a court of law, I must comply with the subpoena. If this is the circumstance, you will be notified that
confidentiality has been breached.

4. If you have given me prior written or verbal consent to speak with family members, friends, previous therapists or other providers, etc.

What if I need to cancel or reschedule a session?

Although issues such as family and work emergencies, childcare issues, or illness may arise, I have a strict 24-hour cancellation policy. If an appointment needs to be cancelled or rescheduled, I require at least 24 hours notice in advance of the scheduled session. If you do not cancel at least 24 hours in advance and/or fail to show, you will be charged the full fee ($180) for that appointment. Missed appointment fees will be charged to the client’s credit card unless alternate arrangements are made.

If you cancel or fail to show for two or more consecutive sessions, I will no longer guarantee that time slot for you. If you know in advance that you will need to miss several consecutive appointments, please notify me and we can make an arrangement.

In the case of inclement weather, please contact me as early as possible to let me know if you can make your scheduled session. I will make every attempt to be in the office as planned, but will notify you in the event I am unable to get there.

In the case of therapist emergency, your scheduled appointment will be cancelled. If this is the circumstance, our next session will resume at the regularly scheduled time.

What if I need to contact you before my scheduled appointment?

If you need to contact me in-between sessions, please leave a message on my confidential voicemail (443-336-7150) or e-mail (sam@samanthamorrelltherapy.com). I am often not available immediately; however, I will attempt to return your call within 24 hours. I do not send or receive text messages. In the event that you are out of town, sick or need additional support, phone and video sessions are available. If a true emergency situation arises, please call 911 or go to any local emergency room.

What kind of records do you keep?

I am required to keep appropriate records of the psychological services that I provide. Your records are maintained in a secure location. I keep brief records noting that you were here, your reasons for seeking therapy, the goals and progress we set for treatment, your diagnosis, topics we discussed, your medical, social and treatment history, records I receive from other providers, copies of records I send to others, and your billing records.
Ask A Question

How do we start working together?

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1) Request a Consult

Unsure if I am the right therapist? I offer a free phone or video consultation to determine if we are a mutual fit. It’s completely confidential and at no cost to you.

2) Book an Appointment

If we decide to move forward, I will send you a link to my patient portal, where you can request an appointment.

3) Complete Intake Paperwork

These forms can be found on the patient portal. Please submit them prior to coming in for your first session. 

4) Your 1st Session

The purpose of the first few sessions is to get to know one another. At your pace, we will discuss your history, current situation and concerns, and identify your goals for therapy. 

Contact Me

Ask a question or book an appointment below. For emergencies, please call 911 or visit your nearest hospital.

This is not a secure form. Please DO NOT submit any personal health information.

Request an Appointment

(443) 336-7150

sam@samanthamorrelltherapy.com