Talk It Out, Uncover Your Strength.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Your Questions Answered. Your Goals Supported. Your Journey Starts Here.

Whether you're considering psychotherapy, coaching, or our unique Mind & Muscle program, I want you to feel informed, comfortable, and confident as you take the next step. I tailor every service to your needs, strengths, and goals, with an emphasis on practical strategies, meaningful progress, and lasting personal growth.

FEES, INSURANCE & APPOINTMENT POLICIES

COUNSELING: (Individual or Mother-Daughter sessions)

• 55 min. - $225 per in-person or telehealth session

• Counseling sessions are available for Georgia residents only

• Please note that scheduled appointments must be canceled 48 hours in advance to avoid being billed the full session amount.

COACHING:

• 55 min. - $225 per in-person or telehealth session

• Coaching sessions are available anywhere in the USA

• Please note that scheduled appointments must be canceled 48 hours in advance to avoid being billed the full session amount.

MIND AND MUSCLE: (Personal Training and Counseliing/Coaching sessions)

• 55 min. - $225 per in-person or telehealth sessions

  GROUP SESSIONS: $50 for groups of 5 or more

• Coaching sessions are available anywhere in the USA.

• Please note that scheduled appointments must be canceled 48 hours in advance to avoid being billed the full session amount.

Do you accept insurance?

My practice is private-pay, so I don't bill insurance companies directly. I can provide documentation for eligible psychotherapy services that you may submit to your insurance company for possible out-of-network reimbursement.

Coverage varies by insurance plan, and reimbursement is not guaranteed. Coaching, personal training, and general wellness services are typically not covered. Documentation for Mind & Muscle will clearly distinguish eligible psychotherapy from noncovered services.

Can I use an HSA or FSA to pay for services?

Eligible psychotherapy expenses may qualify for payment through a Health Savings Account (HSA) or a Flexible Spending Account (FSA), depending on your plan and its requirements.

Coaching, personal training, and general wellness expenses typically don't qualify unless you meet specific medical eligibility criteria. I recommend confirming with your plan administrator or tax professional which expenses are eligible. Credit card payments are also accepted.

What is your cancellation policy?

Your appointment time is reserved for you, and consistent attendance supports meaningful progress.

I request at least 48 hours' notice when canceling or rescheduling an appointment. Cancellations made with less than 48 hours' notice are subject to a fee equal to the full session cost. I understand that unexpected circumstances arise, and exceptions may be considered when appropriate.

GETTING STARTED

How do I know if counseling or coaching is right for me?

You don't have to wait until life becomes overwhelming to invest in yourself! Counseling and coaching can help you gain new perspectives, build confidence, strengthen relationships, develop healthier habits, and make meaningful changes.

Psychotherapy focuses on emotional well-being and mental health concerns, while coaching emphasizes personal development, motivation, accountability, and achieving specific goals. Together, we'll determine which approach best fits your needs.

How do I know if you're the right therapist or coach for me?

A strong professional relationship begins with feeling comfortable, understood, and respected. My approach is warm, collaborative, practical, and nonjudgmental, focusing on your strengths and helping you achieve your goals.

During your consultation, we'll discuss what you're looking for, answer your questions, and determine whether we're a good fit.

What happens during my first appointment?

Our first appointment is a chance to get to know one another, explore your goals, and start developing a personalized plan.

We'll discuss your current circumstances, relevant history, strengths, and areas you'd like to focus on. You can share at your own pace, and I'll guide the conversation with questions designed to help us better understand your needs. My goal is to create a comfortable, supportive environment where you feel encouraged and confident about moving forward.

COUNSELING & COACHING

What can I expect from counseling or coaching?

Every session is tailored to your needs and goals. Depending on the service, we may focus on emotional regulation, stress management, relationship improvement, confidence building, healthier habit development, or achieving personal and professional goals.

You can expect compassionate support, practical strategies, fresh perspectives, and opportunities to apply what you learn in everyday life.

How are counseling and coaching different?

Although both approaches promote personal growth, they serve different purposes. Psychotherapy uses clinical assessments and therapeutic interventions to address mental health concerns, emotional difficulties, behavioral patterns, and relationships.

Coaching focuses on identifying goals, strengthening motivation, improving accountability, and developing actionable plans for personal development. We'll discuss which service is best suited to your needs.

How often will we meet, and how many sessions will I need?

The frequency and duration of services depend on your goals and individual circumstances. Many counseling clients start with weekly sessions, while others benefit from a different schedule.

Some clients work toward specific short-term goals, while others prefer ongoing support. We'll regularly assess your progress and adjust your plan as needed.

What if I feel like counseling or coaching isn't helping?

Your feedback is an important part of the process. I encourage open communication about what's working, what isn't, and how you'd like to approach things differently.

We'll collaborate to make adjustments that better support your goals. If another service or provider would be a better fit, I can help you explore additional options.

Will I need to take medication?

Not necessarily. Many individuals benefit from psychotherapy without medication, while others find that combining therapy with medication helps.

I do not prescribe medication, but if a medication evaluation seems appropriate, we can discuss a referral to a qualified medical provider.

MIND & MUSCLE: PSYCHOTHERAPY MEETS PERSONAL TRAINING

What is Mind & Muscle, and how is it different from traditional therapy or personal training?

Mind & Muscle is an integrative program that combines psychotherapy and personalized physical activity into a coordinated experience.

Instead of focusing exclusively on emotional or physical wellness, we recognize the important relationship between them. By combining therapeutic strategies with purposeful movement, sessions offer opportunities to strengthen emotional resilience, build confidence, manage stress, and develop healthier habits.

Do we actually exercise and participate in therapy during the same session?

Yes! Depending on your goals, we may discuss stress management while walking, practice mindfulness during stretching, or explore confidence and perseverance through strength training.

The balance between therapeutic conversation and physical activity is tailored to support your clinical needs, comfort, and personal goals.

Do I need to be physically fit or enjoy working out?

Absolutely not! Mind & Muscle welcomes individuals of all fitness levels and experience levels. Whether you're new to exercise, returning after a break, or already physically active, we'll explore movement options that match your interests, abilities, and comfort level.

The goal isn't physical perfection. It's finding enjoyable, meaningful ways to strengthen your overall well-being.

What if I have chronic pain, injuries, or physical limitations?

Your comfort and safety come first. Many activities can be adapted to accommodate physical limitations, mobility challenges, and chronic health conditions.

Depending on your needs, sessions may include walking, gentle movement, stretching, or modified exercises. Medical clearance or coordination with your healthcare provider may be recommended, and exercise may not be appropriate for all conditions.

What mental health concerns and personal goals can Mind & Muscle address?

Mind & Muscle may help individuals work on anxiety, stress management, emotional regulation, confidence, motivation, self-esteem, body appreciation, and healthy routines.

Movement offers opportunities to practice therapeutic skills in real time while building perseverance, self-awareness, and confidence. Participation is determined through an individualized assessment.

Can I participate with a friend or in a small group?

Mind & Muscle may be offered individually or in small groups, including those formed by friends, when clinically appropriate.

Group activities can foster connection, communication, teamwork, and mutual support. Participants are screened before enrollment, and confidentiality expectations and limitations are discussed beforehand.

Will I have to discuss personal issues while exercising?

Your comfort, privacy, and therapeutic goals guide each session.

Some activities naturally encourage conversation, while others emphasize mindfulness, breathing, emotional awareness, or the practice of coping skills. Sensitive personal information is addressed in settings where appropriate privacy can be maintained.

What types of physical activities are included?

Activities may include walking, strength training, stretching, mobility exercises, balance work, breathing techniques, and other individualized movement practices.

Exercises are selected based on your goals, physical abilities, and preferences, with an emphasis on supporting overall wellness rather than on achieving a particular fitness level.

Can Mind & Muscle help with confidence, motivation, and body image?

Yes! Sessions can incorporate strategies for positive self-talk, goal-setting, persistence, self-compassion, and confidence-building. The program emphasizes appreciating your body's abilities, building a healthy relationship with movement, and celebrating progress rather than focusing on appearance or perfection.

Individuals with eating disorders or significant body-image concerns require additional clinical assessment before participating in exercise-based services.

Do I have to participate in both psychotherapy and personal training?

Mind & Muscle is designed to integrate both approaches, but the balance between therapeutic work and physical activity may vary based on your needs.

If you're interested only in counseling or personal training, we can discuss whether a separate service would be a better fit.

How do I know if Mind & Muscle is right for me?

If you're interested in strengthening emotional resilience, improving physical fitness, building confidence, developing healthier habits, or exploring a more active therapy approach, Mind & Muscle may be a great fit.

During your consultation, we'll discuss your goals, health considerations, and preferences to determine whether the program is right for you.

What should I wear or bring to a Mind & Muscle appointment?

Comfortable clothing, supportive shoes, and water are generally recommended. Please bring any medically necessary items you typically use during physical activity.

We'll discuss any additional recommendations based on your planned activities.

PRIVACY & CONFIDENTIALITY

Is what I share during counseling confidential?

Yes. Protecting your privacy is essential to the therapeutic relationship. Psychotherapy provides a confidential space to openly explore your experiences, thoughts, feelings, and concerns.

Confidentiality is subject to applicable legal and ethical exceptions, including mandatory reporting obligations, serious safety concerns, court orders, and other disclosures required or permitted by law. We will explain these limitations during the informed consent process.

For group services, participants are expected to respect one another's privacy, although confidentiality among group members cannot be guaranteed.

YOUR NEXT CHAPTER STARTS HERE!

Invest in Yourself. Discover Your Strengths. Create Positive Change.

Whether you're looking to improve your emotional well-being, strengthen your relationships, achieve your personal goals, or experience the benefits of combining psychotherapy with movement, I'm here to help you explore what's possible.

You don't need to have everything figured out before getting started. Together, we can identify your strengths, develop a personalized plan, and work toward meaningful progress.

Your Goals. Your Growth. Your Health. Your Happiness.

Let's make it happen!

THE NO SURPRISES ACT

Your Right to Clear, Transparent Healthcare Costs

I believe that transparency is an important part of building trust and creating a positive therapeutic relationship. You deserve to understand the anticipated cost of your care before beginning services, without unexpected financial surprises.

The No Surprises Act, which took effect on January 1, 2022, is a federal law designed to protect consumers from certain unexpected medical bills. One key provision requires healthcare providers to offer a Good Faith Estimate (GFE) of anticipated charges to individuals without health insurance or who choose not to use their insurance to pay for services.

WHAT IS A GOOD FAITH ESTIMATE?

A Good Faith Estimate is a written explanation of the expected cost of non-emergency healthcare services before those services are provided. For psychotherapy, this estimate helps you understand the anticipated financial commitment associated with your treatment.

Your estimate may include:

• The current fee for individual psychotherapy sessions.

• The anticipated frequency and number of appointments.

• The estimated total cost of services over the specified treatment period.

• Other reasonably anticipated healthcare-related services and charges, when applicable.

A Good Faith Estimate is intended to provide financial clarity and help you make informed decisions about your care.

HOW GOOD FAITH ESTIMATES WORK IN MY PRACTICE

As a private-pay psychotherapy practice, I provide Good Faith Estimates to clients who pay out of pocket for treatment, in accordance with federal requirements. For ongoing psychotherapy, I generally prepare estimates covering an anticipated treatment period of up to 12 months, based on my current session fees and the frequency of appointments we discuss together. For example, if we anticipate meeting weekly, your estimate will reflect the projected cost of those sessions over the specified period. Because psychotherapy is individualized, the actual number of appointments may change depending on your needs, treatment goals, progress, and preferences. Your estimate provides a reasonable projection of anticipated costs—not a requirement to attend a predetermined number of sessions. If treatment continues beyond the period covered by your estimate, an updated estimate will be provided as required. You may also request an updated estimate whenever your anticipated treatment needs change.

YOUR RIGHTS UNDER THE NO SURPRISES ACT

If you are uninsured or choosing not to use insurance to pay for your healthcare services, you have important rights under federal law.

You have the right to:

• Receive a written Good Faith Estimate of expected charges for qualifying non-emergency healthcare services.

• Request a Good Faith Estimate before scheduling an appointment.

• Receive an estimate even if you have insurance but are choosing to pay privately rather than submit a claim.

• Review anticipated charges before receiving services.

• Request clarification about the fees and services included in your estimate.

• Access a federal dispute resolution process if your bill is substantially higher than your Good Faith Estimate.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT YOUR ESTIMATE

A Good Faith Estimate is not a final bill: It represents the costs reasonably anticipated at the time the estimate is prepared. Actual charges may differ if your treatment needs, appointment frequency, services, or applicable fees change.

Your treatment plan remains flexible: We determine the frequency and duration of psychotherapy collaboratively, based on your clinical needs, goals, and preferences. You are not obligated to attend every session projected in your estimate.

Additional services may incur additional charges: Certain services, such as scheduled consultations, clinical documentation, or other professional services, may have separate fees when applicable. Reasonably anticipated healthcare charges will be included in your estimate as required. Unanticipated services may not be reflected in the original estimate.

Your estimate may be updated: If your anticipated treatment needs or costs change, an updated Good Faith Estimate may be provided. You may also request an updated estimate at any time.

A Good Faith Estimate is not a treatment contract: Receiving an estimate does not obligate you to obtain services, continue treatment, or pay for appointments you have not received. Separately disclosed cancellation policies may still apply.

WHAT IF MY ACTUAL BILL IS HIGHER THAN MY ESTIMATE?

The No Surprises Act provides a federal patient-provider dispute resolution process for qualifying billing differences. If your bill from a provider is at least $400 more than the Good Faith Estimate you received from that provider, you may be eligible to dispute the charges. Generally, you must begin the dispute process within 120 calendar days of receiving your initial bill. An independent third party reviews the relevant documentation and determines the appropriate payment amount. I encourage you to retain a copy of your Good Faith Estimate for your records and compare it with any subsequent billing statements. For additional information about your rights or the dispute resolution process, visit: www.cms.gov/nosurprises

If you would like to set up a complimentary 15 min. phone consultation or schedule an appointment, call 404-386-6130 or email alisonkellylpc@gamil.com You can also fill out the form below. Please note that counseling services are for Georgia residents only. Thank you and let me know if I can be of any further assistance.

I WOULD LIKE MORE INFORMATION ABOUT OUR SERVICES:

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SERENITY COACHING AND COUNSELING

Alison Kelly, LPC, MA, DBTC
404-386-6130
alisonkellylpc@gmail.com

OFFICE LOCATION:
Milton/Alpharetta near Cambridge High School & King’s Ridge Christian School
(address given upon booking an appointment)

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