Fees: The cost of therapy sessions varies based on the type and duration of the session. Here is a general overview: Individual Therapy: $200 per 45-minute session; $250 per 60 minute session Couples Therapy: $200 per 60-minute session Family Therapy: $200 per 60-minute session Payment Methods: We accept the following forms of payment: Insurance: If you have health insurance that covers mental health services and there is a medically necessity for services, we can work with your insurance provider. Please provide your insurance details prior to your first session so we can verify coverage and discuss any co-pays or deductibles. Credit/Debit Cards: We accept major credit and debit cards for direct payment. HSA/FSA: We accept payments from Health Savings Accounts (HSA) and Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) if applicable. Please discuss any financial concerns or questions with us before your first session. We want to ensure that you have a clear understanding of your payment options and any potential costs associated with therapy. We require a 24-hour notice for any cancellations or rescheduling of therapy sessions. If you cancel or reschedule with less than 24 hours' notice, you will be charged 100% of the full session fee regardless of if you are a private pay or insurance client. This policy helps us manage scheduling and ensure that we can offer timely appointments to all our clients. If you need to cancel or reschedule, please contact us as soon as possible to avoid the cancellation fee. We appreciate your understanding and cooperation.

Yes, however, in order for services to be covered by your health insurance, it must be deemed as medically necessary. In the event that your health insurance does not deem it to be medically necessary, you will be expected to pay the full session fee. I accept health insurances through Alma and Headway. Insurances I accept: Aetna North Carolina, New York, Vermont, Virginia Allied Benefit systems-Aetna Christian Brothers Services-Aetna Trustmark Health Benefits-Aetna Trustmark Small Business Benefits-Aetna Health Scope-Aetna Meritain Nippon Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield New York (formerly Empire) (New York-Through Headway) Anthem EAP (Coming Soon for Vermont) Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts North Carolina, New York Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina (North Carolina through Headway) Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Vermont (Coming soon Vermont through Headway) CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield (Coming Soon for Virginia) Carelon Behavioral Health (Coming soon for New York, North Carolina, Virginia, Vermont through Headway) Cigna North Carolina, New York, Virginia, Vermont Trustmark Health Benefits-Cigna Empire Blue Cross Blue Shield New York Horizon Blue Cross and Blue Shield of New Jersey (Coming Soon for New York) Optum North Carolina, New York, Virginia Optum Live & Work Well (EAP) UMR Oscar United Healthcare Oscar Health Plans UHC Student Resources AllSavers UHC United Healthcare Shared Services (UHSS) Surest (Formerly Bind) Health Plans Inc UnitedHealthcare Global Point32 Healthcare (Coming soon for Vermont) Quest Behavioral Health (New York, North Carolina, Virginia, Vermont through Headway) United Healthcare Medicare Advantage Virginia, Coming soon for New York, North Carolina and Vermont Does the couple have to be married? What if a couple lives together or has different insurance? This can vary by insurance plan, but generally speaking, the specific nature of the relationship is not important. Instead, insurance plans care about the context of the sessions and that they’re medically necessary. We would only bill under one person's insurance; typically under the person that meets the requirements for a diagnosis. Meaningful Emotion Therapy services are often reimbursable by most insurance companies. We work with many insurance companies as “out-of-network” providers. If you’d like to use your “out-of-network” benefits, a receipt will be provided to you, which you will then submit to your insurance provider. We can also submit the superbill directly to your health insurance to reimburse you directly for the sessions you've paid out of pocket. Please check with your insurance provider to confirm your eligibility for reimbursement. Does insurance cover family or couple’s therapy? Insurance coverage for couples/family therapy varies from plan to plan. Insurance needs to categorize the treatment is medically necessary, meaning: The primary ICD-10 Code for the Identified Patient (IP) must be an F-code The need cannot be growth-oriented (i.e., a couple who wants to have better communication without an F-code diagnosis) Please note that Meaningful Emotion Therapy DOES accept health insurance for couples therapy however, please note that it is often not considered a medically necessary care and most insurances do not cover this. In the event that your insurance deems couples therapy to be medically unnecessary, you will be responsible for the full session fee.

To determine if your insurance offers out-of-network benefits, follow these steps: Contact Your Insurance Provider: Call the customer service number on the back of your insurance card. Ask them whether your plan covers out-of-network mental health services and what the reimbursement process entails. Inquire About Reimbursement: Ask about the percentage of the session fee that will be reimbursed and if there is a deductible or co-pay. Obtain Pre-authorization: Some insurance plans require pre-authorization for out-of-network services. Confirm if this is necessary and how to proceed with obtaining it. Submit Claims: If your plan covers out-of-network therapy, you may need to pay for sessions upfront and submit a claim to your insurance for reimbursement. Your therapist can provide you with the necessary documentation, such as a superbill, to facilitate this process. Feel free to reach out if you need assistance understanding your insurance benefits or navigating the reimbursement process.

We do not accept Medicaid or Medicare at this time. If you have other forms of insurance or payment methods, please let us know, and we can discuss those options. If you need assistance finding a provider who accepts Medicaid or Medicare, we can offer guidance on where to look.

If you have two insurance plans, you may be able to use both to help cover the cost of therapy. Here’s how it typically works: Primary and Secondary Insurance: You’ll need to identify which of your insurance plans is primary and which is secondary. The primary insurance will be billed first, and any remaining balance may be billed to your secondary insurance. Verify Coverage: Contact both insurance providers to confirm your coverage details for mental health services. This includes understanding how each plan handles out-of-network benefits, co-pays, deductibles, and reimbursement rates. Submit Claims: Your therapist will usually submit the claim to your primary insurance first. After the primary insurance has processed the claim and provided their payment or explanation of benefits, the remaining balance can be submitted to your secondary insurance for potential coverage. However, at this time, my billing platform does not allow for me to submit to a secondary insurance. As such, your primary insurance must be an insurance I am in network with. Documentation: Ensure that you keep all relevant documentation from both insurance providers, including explanation of benefits (EOB) statements, to help with claim submissions and follow-ups. If you need assistance navigating your insurance benefits or have questions about how to handle dual insurance coverage, feel free to reach out for support.

At this time, I am only licensed to provide therapy services in New York, North Carolina, and Virginia. Therefore, I can only offer virtual therapy to clients who reside in these states. If you live outside of these states and are seeking therapy services, I recommend finding a licensed therapist in your area who can provide the support you need. If you need help locating a therapist or have questions about finding someone in your area, feel free to reach out for assistance.

No, I offer teletherapy only. All therapy sessions are conducted virtually, which allows for flexibility and convenience regardless of your location within the states where I am licensed. If you have any questions about how teletherapy works or need assistance getting started, please let me know!

Teletherapy offers several advantages that can enhance your therapeutic experience: Convenience: You can attend sessions from the comfort of your own home, eliminating the need for travel and making it easier to fit therapy into your busy schedule. Flexibility: Teletherapy allows for greater scheduling flexibility, including options for evening or weekend appointments, which can accommodate various work and personal commitments. Access to Services: If you live in a remote or underserved area, teletherapy provides access to high-quality therapy services that might not be available locally. Comfort and Privacy: Being in a familiar environment can help you feel more relaxed and open during sessions. It also allows you to maintain privacy in your personal space. Continuity of Care: In situations where travel or in-person appointments are challenging, teletherapy ensures that you can continue your therapy consistently without interruptions. Safety: For those who have health concerns or prefer to minimize in-person interactions, teletherapy offers a safe and secure alternative. Teletherapy can be an effective and accessible way to engage in therapy, and it provides flexibility that can enhance your overall therapeutic experience. If you have any questions or concerns about teletherapy, feel free to ask!

Preparing for a teletherapy session can help ensure that you make the most of your time together. Here’s how you can get ready, whether you’re an individual, couple, or family: For Individuals: Find a Quiet Space: Choose a private, quiet room where you won’t be interrupted. This helps you feel more at ease and allows for a focused conversation. Check Your Technology: Ensure your computer, tablet, or smartphone is charged and that you have a stable internet connection. Test your microphone and camera beforehand to avoid technical issues. Have Your Materials Ready: If you have any notes or topics you want to discuss, keep them handy. It can also be helpful to have a notebook for any reflections or follow-up actions. Be Comfortable: Dress in a way that makes you feel relaxed and confident. Your comfort can positively influence the session. For Couples: Set Up Together: Both partners should find a comfortable, private space where you can both be seen and heard clearly. Make sure your setup allows for good eye contact. Prepare to Share: Discuss any topics or concerns you want to bring up during the session beforehand. It can be helpful to jot down key points or questions you’d like to address. Create a Calm Environment: Minimize distractions by turning off notifications on your devices and letting others in your home know you’re in a session. For Families: Coordinate Spaces: Each family member should have a quiet, private spot where they can participate without interruptions. Ensure everyone has a clear view and can be heard. Prepare as a Group: Before the session, discuss any family concerns or topics you want to explore together. It’s helpful to agree on what you’d like to address during the session. Ensure Everyone is Comfortable: Make sure the space is comfortable for all family members and that everyone is ready to engage. This helps create a supportive environment for discussing family dynamics. General Tips: Arrive a Few Minutes Early: Log in a few minutes before your scheduled time to ensure everything is working properly and to settle in. Be Open and Honest: Teletherapy is just as effective as in-person therapy when you’re open and engaged. Your therapist is here to support you, and your honesty helps make the process more effective. Be stationary: Please note that you should not be driving during your session as it can pose a safety risk. It can also prevent you from being present emotionally with what you are discussing in therapy. Also, some states and insurance providers do not allow for this. If you have any concerns or need assistance with setting up, don’t hesitate to reach out before your session. We’re here to help you feel comfortable and ready to make the most of your therapy experience.

While teletherapy offers many benefits, it may not be suitable for everyone. Here are some situations where teletherapy might not be the best fit: Severe Crisis Situations: If you are experiencing a crisis or need immediate intervention, in-person support may be more appropriate. For emergencies, it’s crucial to seek help from local emergency services or crisis intervention resources. Lack of Technology or Connectivity: If you do not have access to a reliable internet connection or the necessary technology (such as a computer or smartphone with video capabilities), teletherapy may be challenging. Comfort with Technology: If you are uncomfortable or unfamiliar with using video conferencing tools, it might impact your ability to engage effectively in teletherapy. Privacy Concerns: If you lack a private and secure space to conduct therapy sessions, confidentiality and comfort during sessions could be compromised. Severe Impairments: If you have conditions that severely affect your ability to engage in telecommunication or require physical assessment or intervention, in-person therapy might be necessary. If you have any concerns about whether teletherapy is the right fit for you, it’s important to discuss them with your therapist to explore the best options for your needs.

In most cases, it is beneficial for all participants in family or couples therapy to be in the same location, as it allows for better communication and interaction during the session. However, we understand that this isn’t always possible. Here’s how it works: Same Location: If everyone can be in the same physical location, it helps facilitate smoother interactions and discussions. It allows the therapist to observe dynamics more accurately and can contribute to a more cohesive therapeutic experience. Different Locations: If family members or partners are in different locations, you can still participate in therapy together. Each person can join the session from their own location via video conferencing. We’ll work with you to ensure that everyone is able to connect effectively and participate fully. If you have any concerns about managing different locations for your therapy sessions, please let us know. We can offer guidance on how to make the most of your virtual sessions and ensure a supportive and effective therapy experience.

Meaningful Emotion Therapy PLLC operates from Monday to Thursday, 8am to 7pm, by request. Appointment availability can vary depending on the therapist, and clients are seen strictly by appointment only. Evening slots tend to be the first to fill up, so it is advisable to reach out early if you require those times. To set up an appointment, you can either email us or arrange a free phone consultation to determine if our schedule aligns with yours. This way, we ensure that your therapy sessions fit into your personal timetable while allowing us to provide the most meaningful and effective care tailored to your needs.

The 15-minute intake appointment is a brief consultation designed to ensure that we are a good fit for your therapeutic needs. Here's what to expect: Introduction: We’ll start with a brief overview of your reason for seeking therapy and any immediate concerns you want to address. This helps us understand your goals and what you're hoping to achieve through therapy. Service Overview: We'll provide you with a quick explanation of the services we offer, including individual, couples, and family therapy, and answer any questions you may have about the therapeutic process. Scheduling and Next Steps: If we both feel that Meaningful Emotion Therapy is a good fit, we’ll discuss the next steps, including scheduling your first full assessment session and addressing any logistical questions (such as fees, insurance, or session formats). This intake appointment is a great opportunity to ensure you feel comfortable moving forward and that we can meet your specific needs. As a result, I typically give you a week to reflect on whether you feel we are a good fit before scheduling.

The intake packet is a set of important documents that help us get to know you better before your first therapy session. Here's what is typically included: Client Information Form: Basic personal and contact information, as well as emergency contact details. Consent for Treatment: This document outlines your rights as a client, confidentiality policies, and the general structure of therapy. It ensures that you understand the therapeutic process and agree to participate. Medical and Mental Health History: A questionnaire covering your physical and mental health background, including any diagnoses, medications, or previous therapy experiences. This helps us understand your needs from a holistic perspective. Measured Assessments: In order for services to be paid for directly to the clinician or reimbursed by health insurances directly to you, at least one person must be the identified patient who holds a medical diagnosis to prove medical necessity. We use reliable measurement tools to determine a diagnoses. This allows for us to have a working diagnosis prior to starting treatment to ensure that the sessions are paid for by your insurance provider. Please note, that the clinician does not control how much you pay or what diagnosis is covered by your health insurance. Insurance and Payment Information: If applicable, this form collects insurance details and outlines payment policies. Why you need to complete it before the session: Completing the intake packet ahead of time allows us to maximize your first session by having critical background information at hand. This means we can dive right into understanding your concerns and beginning the assessment process, rather than using valuable session time on administrative tasks. It ensures a more focused and productive start to your therapy journey.

At Meaningful Emotion, our initial assessment sessions are designed to lay a solid foundation for your therapeutic journey. For individual therapy, the first 1-2 sessions will be dedicated to completing a comprehensive initial assessment. During these sessions, we will create a family genogram (family tree) and establish your therapy goals to ensure we focus on what is most meaningful to you. For couples therapy, the assessment process spans four 60-minute sessions: Session 1: A conjoint session where the therapist collects the history of your relationship. This structured approach helps us understand the dynamics, individual, and collective needs. Sessions 2 & 3: Individual sessions with each partner to gather your family history, genogram, mental health and substance use history, your perception of the problems, and your commitment to the relationship. Session 4: A role-play of your last conflict without interruptions, followed by a review of the assessments and the creation of treatment goals together. For family therapy, the assessment process typically involves 2-3 sessions: Session 1: This session is attended by all family members involved in therapy. During this session, the therapist will gather a detailed history of your family, including communication patterns, major life events, and any challenges you're currently facing. We will also begin creating a family genogram (family tree) to gain insights into intergenerational patterns that may impact your current family dynamics. Session 2: In this session, the therapist may meet with individual family members or smaller family units to explore individual perspectives and histories in more detail. We’ll discuss each person's experiences, mental health history, and goals for family therapy. This allows us to address both the collective and individual needs within the family system. Session 3 (if needed): In the final session of the assessment phase, we’ll bring the family back together to review the information gathered and discuss the treatment plan. We will also establish therapy goals that reflect the needs and hopes of the entire family. This thorough initial assessment is key to customizing your therapy experience, supporting your emotional growth, and fostering meaningful connections.

Initial Assessment (intake session)- 60 minutes. Individual therapy- 45 - 60 minutes Couples therapy- 50-60 minutes. Family therapy- 50-60 minutes. Dr. Francis offers 75-minute sessions upon request. However, please note that if you are using insurance, the extended time is an additional charge that most insurances do not cover.

Therapy works best when you consistently engage in the process, both during and between sessions. Here’s what you can expect: In the beginning, I ask that you commit to weekly therapy sessions. This consistency helps build a strong therapeutic relationship and sets the foundation for meaningful and impactful growth. Weekly sessions create a structure that allows us to explore your concerns deeply and ensure steady progress. I do not offer monthly sessions at the start of therapy, as they tend to be less effective in achieving lasting therapeutic results. Regular weekly sessions provide the continuity and focus needed to address your concerns effectively. If you believe you need a different frequency of appointments, I encourage you to discuss this with your therapist. Together, we can decide on a schedule that balances your needs and supports your therapy goals.

The length of therapy varies depending on your individual needs, goals, and the challenges you're working through. Therapy is a deeply personal process, and there is no one-size-fits-all timeline. Some people may achieve their goals in a few months, while others may find value in longer-term therapy. Several factors can influence the length of your therapy, including: Your goals: Short-term therapy (typically 3-6 months) may focus on specific issues or immediate challenges, while long-term therapy may involve deeper exploration of patterns, relationships, and personal growth. The complexity of your concerns: More complex or deeply rooted issues may require a longer commitment to make significant progress. Your pace and readiness: Everyone works through their concerns at their own pace. Therapy is a collaborative journey, and we will adjust the process based on your comfort and readiness for change. During our sessions, we will regularly review your progress and adjust the length and frequency of therapy as needed. Ultimately, how long you stay in therapy is a decision we will make together, based on your needs and the progress you feel you're making.

Confidentiality in therapy means that the information you share with your therapist during sessions is private and protected. It is a key component of creating a safe and trusting environment, allowing you to openly discuss personal and sensitive topics without fear of them being shared with others. What does this include? Privacy of your personal information: Your therapist will not disclose any details about you or your therapy sessions to anyone outside of the therapeutic relationship, including family members, friends, employers, or other professionals, without your explicit consent. Session content: The conversations and issues you discuss in therapy are confidential and remain between you and your therapist. Are there exceptions to confidentiality? Yes, while confidentiality is vital, there are a few legal and ethical exceptions where your therapist is required to break confidentiality: Imminent harm: If you express a clear intent to harm yourself or someone else, your therapist may need to take steps to protect your safety or the safety of others. Abuse or neglect: If your therapist has reason to believe that a child, elderly person, or vulnerable adult is being abused or neglected, they are required to report it to the appropriate authorities. Court orders: In rare cases, a court may subpoena therapy records or testimony, and your therapist may be required to comply. Your therapist will discuss confidentiality and its limits with you in more detail during your first session, ensuring that you understand how your information is protected and the rare situations where disclosure may be necessary.

For individual therapy, I draw from Narrative Therapy and Bowen Therapy. Narrative Therapy allows clients to reclaim their personal stories. For Black individuals and marginalized identities, this approach is particularly powerful because it empowers them to re-author narratives shaped by systemic oppression, racism, and cultural erasure. We explore how societal and familial expectations have influenced your self-view, and together, we reframe those stories to highlight your resilience and strength. By focusing on the strengths within your lived experience, we create a path toward healing rooted in your truth. Bowen Therapy helps us understand how family patterns and intergenerational dynamics contribute to your current challenges. For Black clients and those from marginalized communities, these patterns often include coping mechanisms developed in response to historical trauma and systemic injustice. This approach helps you differentiate your emotional reactions from the inherited emotional baggage, giving you more control over your behavior and reactions in the present.

In couples therapy, I use Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) and Gottman Couples Therapy, two approaches that help partners create more meaningful and connected relationships. EFT is centered on understanding and transforming the emotional bonds between partners. For Black couples and those from marginalized groups, societal pressures and racialized stress can strain intimate relationships. EFT allows us to explore how these external stressors affect the emotional safety between partners and help repair attachment bonds, creating a more secure and loving relationship. Gottman Couples Therapy provides a structured approach to improving communication, conflict resolution, and emotional intimacy. This method is highly effective in addressing the specific challenges that Black couples face, including navigating cultural expectations, racial stressors, and the impact of systemic discrimination on their relationship. Through this approach, we build healthier patterns of interaction, fostering greater understanding and connection.

For family therapy, I use Structural Therapy and Attachment-Focused Family Therapy to work through relational dynamics and attachment issues within the family system. Structural Therapy focuses on reorganizing the family structure to create healthier relationships and clearer boundaries. In Black families, where historical trauma and systemic oppression often disrupt family dynamics, this approach helps restore balance and create healthier, more supportive roles. It honors the cultural strengths of Black families, such as community and collective care, while addressing their unique stressors. Attachment-Focused Family Therapy explores how attachment wounds, often passed down through generations, affect family relationships today. This approach is particularly effective in helping Black families and those from marginalized communities repair emotional connections, foster secure attachments, and build a strong foundation of trust and emotional safety.​

I use these approaches because they center on healing the individual and the relationships within their broader system. For Black populations and marginalized identities, therapy must address not only personal struggles but also the cultural, historical, and systemic factors that shape those struggles. By focusing on family dynamics, emotional connection, and personal narrative, we can create lasting change that honors your identity and lived experience. These methods help you reclaim your story, strengthen your relationships, and build resilience in facing challenges unique to your community.