Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know before getting started at Stone Soup Counseling.
Getting Started
How do I know if therapy is right for me?
If something in your life is causing you distress, affecting your relationships, your work, or your sense of self -- therapy can help. You don't need to be in crisis to benefit. Many people come to therapy simply wanting to understand themselves better, navigate a life transition, or build healthier patterns. If you're wondering whether therapy might help, that curiosity is often reason enough to explore it.
How do I become a client at Stone Soup Counseling?
The easiest way is to fill out our new client form on the Become a Client page of our website. From there, our team will reach out to learn a little more about what you're looking for and match you with a therapist who's a good fit. You're also welcome to call us at 443-266-2270 if you'd prefer to speak with someone directly.
How long does it take to get an appointment?
We do our best to connect new clients with a therapist as quickly as possible. Availability varies depending on the time of year and which therapist is the best match for your needs. We'll give you an honest estimate of wait time when you reach out, and will always try to find the soonest available option for you.
How do I know which therapist is the right fit for me?
Finding the right therapist is one of the most important parts of the process. When you submit your new client form, we'll ask about what you're hoping to work on and any preferences you have — things like therapist gender, areas of specialty, or therapeutic approach. We use that information to suggest a good match. You can also browse our team on the Meet Our Team page to get a sense of who we are before reaching out.
What happens in the first session?
The first session is really a chance for you and your therapist to get to know each other. Your therapist will ask questions about what brings you in, your background, and what you're hoping to get from therapy. It's also a chance for you to ask questions and get a feel for whether the relationship feels like a good fit. There's no pressure to share more than you're comfortable with — you set the pace.
Practical & Logistics
Where are you located, and is there parking?
We have two locations in Baltimore. Our Roland Park office is at 2 Hamill Road, Suite 332, Baltimore, MD 21210. Our Hamilton-Lauraville office is at 4900 Harford Road, Baltimore, MD 21214. Parking information for each location is available on our individual location pages. You're also welcome to call us if you have specific questions about getting here.
Do you offer telehealth?
Yes! We offer telehealth therapy to clients anywhere in Maryland. Many of our clients appreciate the flexibility of being able to attend sessions from home, especially for busy schedules or when getting to an office isn't practical. Telehealth sessions are conducted via a secure, HIPAA-compliant video platform. We are unable to provide telehealth appointments to clients outside of Maryland due to state licensing restrictions.
What are your hours?
Our therapists offer a range of appointment times including daytime and evening availability, though this varies by clinician. When you reach out, we'll work with you to find a time that fits your schedule. The best way to check current availability is to contact us directly.
How long is a typical therapy session?
Most individual therapy sessions are 50 minutes. Couples sessions are typically 50 to 60 minutes. Some specialized services, such as EMDR intensives or certain group sessions, may have different time formats. Your therapist will let you know what to expect before your first appointment.
What is your cancellation policy?
We ask that clients provide at least 24 hours notice if they need to cancel or reschedule an appointment. Late cancellations or missed appointments may be subject to a fee of $100. We understand that life happens — if something unexpected comes up, please reach out to your therapist as soon as possible.
Insurance & Fees
Do you accept insurance?
Yes. We are in-network with CareFirst/BCBS, Johns Hopkins EHP and USFHP, Medicaid, Medicare, Tricare, and Cigna (with some clinicians). Every therapist at Stone Soup Counseling is in-network with CareFirst and Johns Hopkins plans. We also work with clients who have out-of-network benefits. For full details, visit our Insurance & Fees page.
What does therapy cost if I'm not using insurance?
Our self-pay rate is $170 per individual therapy session. Couples counseling is $200 per session. We are not able to bill insurance for couples counseling — please see our Insurance & Fees page for more detail on why that is and what it means for you.
Can you help me understand my insurance benefits?
We'll check your benefits on your behalf before your first appointment and let you know what to expect in terms of cost. Every plan is different, so even if you're with the same insurance company as someone else, your coverage may vary. Our team is happy to walk you through what we find and answer any questions.
Do you offer couples counseling through insurance?
We are not able to accept insurance for couples counseling. Insurance billing for therapy requires an individual mental health diagnosis, which is not applicable to couples work. The fee for couples counseling is $200 per session. Our Couples Reset Package offers an alternative structure — visit our Couples page to learn more.
The Therapy Experience
How long will I be in therapy?
This is different for everyone, and it's something you'll work out together with your therapist based on your goals. Some people come in with a specific concern and feel ready to wrap up after a few months. Others find ongoing therapy valuable for longer-term growth and support. There's no set timeline — your progress and your preferences guide the process.
What if I don't click with my therapist?
The therapeutic relationship is one of the most important factors in whether therapy is effective, and it's okay if the first match isn't the right one. If you don't feel like your therapist is a good fit, please tell us. We'll work with you to find someone else on our team who might be a better match. There's no awkwardness in making that switch — it happens, and we want you to have the best possible experience.
Is what I share in therapy confidential?
Yes. Everything you share with your therapist is confidential. There are a small number of legal exceptions — for example, if there is a risk of harm to yourself or others, or in cases involving child or elder abuse — which your therapist will explain in detail at your first appointment. Outside of those specific circumstances, your privacy is fully protected.
What's the difference between individual, couples, and group therapy?
Individual therapy is one-on-one work between you and your therapist, focused on your personal goals and experiences. Couples therapy involves you and your partner working with a therapist together to address relationship dynamics and communication. Group therapy brings together a small number of people with shared experiences or goals, facilitated by a therapist — it offers a unique kind of connection and perspective that individual work can't replicate. We offer all three at Stone Soup Counseling.
Our Approach
What types of therapy do you offer?
Our therapists are trained in a wide range of evidence-based approaches including EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), trauma-informed care, the Gottman Method for couples, Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), and more. Visit our Specialties pages to learn more about each approach.
Do you work with specific populations or age groups?
Our therapists work with adults across the lifespan. Some clinicians have specific areas of expertise — such as trauma, neurodiversity, relationship issues, or life transitions — which you can explore on our Meet Our Team page. If you're unsure whether we're the right fit for your specific needs, just reach out and we'll be honest with you.
Are your therapists affirming of LGBTQIA+ clients?
Absolutely. Stone Soup Counseling is proudly LGBTQIA+ affirming. Our staff includes members and allies of the LGBTQIA+ community, and we are committed to providing a safe, welcoming, and fully affirming space for clients of all sexual orientations, gender identities, and expressions.
What does Health at Every Size (HAES) mean for my care?
Health at Every Size is a framework that recognizes health and well-being are not determined by body size or weight. At Stone Soup Counseling, we embrace this philosophy fully. You will never be judged, shamed, or given unsolicited commentary about your body here. Our approach is rooted in body neutrality, self-compassion, and treating you as a whole person.
For New Clients
I've never been to therapy before — what should I expect?
Starting therapy for the first time can feel daunting, and that's completely normal. In your first few sessions, your therapist will focus on getting to know you and understanding what brings you in. You won't be pushed to share anything before you're ready. Over time, you'll develop a rhythm together — exploring what's on your mind, building insight, and working toward the goals that matter to you. Most people find that it gets easier and more rewarding as the relationship develops.
I'm nervous about starting — is that normal?
Very much so. Almost everyone feels some nervousness before a first therapy appointment. It takes courage to reach out, and we want you to know that there's no wrong way to show up. You don't need to have the perfect words or know exactly what you want to work on. Your therapist is here to help you figure that out together.
Can I switch therapists if it's not working out?
Yes, always. We never want you to stay in a therapeutic relationship that doesn't feel right. If at any point you'd like to work with someone different — whether it's about fit, approach, availability, or anything else — just let us know. We'll help make the transition as smooth as possible.
Still have questions?
We're happy to help. Call us at 443-266-2270 or visit our Become a Client page to get in touch. We look forward to hearing from you.