Frequently Asked Questions

What if I want to work on my relationship but my spouse or significant other does not want to come?

Although we can work together to try to engage the other person to come, sometimes the other person will refuse to be a part of therapy. A lot of good work can still be done to help a relationship or marriage with one person in therapy, especially since it is the most motivated partner that will come in.   

What if my child or adolescent doesn't want to come to family therapy?

Often children and adolescents do not want to come into therapy.  I help them to feel more comfortable by emphasizing that we will not be labeling them as "the problem" because we will be focusing on the family as a whole.  I also make sure that they get something they want out of counseling.  In worst case scenarios where the child or adolescent really fights the process, I can work primarily with the parents on creating an environment of change in the home.

Do you have evening hours?

I have evening hours on Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday nights.

Do you have a sliding fee scale?

Yes.  Depending on your income level, you may be eligible for a reduced fee.  Please call for details.

Do you take insurance?

I will fill out all of the necessary paperwork for you to get some reimbursement from your insurance plan.  Please call the customer service number on the back of your card to get further information about your "out-of-network" mental health benefits.

Does insurance cover marriage and couples counseling? 

Typically, insurance does not cover marriage or couples counseling unless one person is identified as the patient with a diagnosable mental condition.  PLEASE KNOW THAT THIS IS THE CASE ANYWHERE YOU GO.  If you are using your insurance, please be an educated consumer and find out from your provider who they have identified as the patient and what diagnosis they have used to get insurance reimbursement.

What do all those letters behind your name mean?

LCMFT means Licensed Clinical Marriage and Family Therapist (see What is a LCMFT?) LCPC means Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor.

Can you prescribe medication?

No.  At this time in Maryland, the only people who may prescribe medication are licensed medical doctors (MDs) and some psychiatric nurses (RNs).

How do I make an appointment?

Call 410-804-9404 or email jsober@trustbuilderscounseling.com .You will get a response within 24 hours.