Compassionate support, counseling and education services for those coping with loss and for those who are learning to support others who are grieving.
What is your specialty?
Grief, loss, death and dying. This includes anticipatory and preparatory services before a death as well as bereavement counseling after a significant loss. In addition, support can be provided for those experiencing other types of loss, such as miscarriage, divorce or other major life changes. Howling Lion also offers specialized trainings and talks for community organizations. I have extensive experience providing counseling to therapists and other clinical or medical professionals.
What are the rates of your services?
Counseling services for individuals are typically $150 per hour, insurance is not accepted. Walking sessions lasting two hours are $275. Traveling sessions are based on the hourly rate, including travel. Education seminars and other talks are priced depending on content, length and location. Please reach out to discuss rates.
Why don’t you accept insurance?
Grief is a normal and natural response to a significant loss and is not typically covered by insurance as a mental health challenge. Most often grief is coded by insurance agencies as depression, generalized anxiety or adjustment disorder and requires treatment notes addressing these issues. Private payment allows you to receive the supportive counseling you need without having an unnecessary diagnosis in your medical or mental health record.
How often will we meet?
Supportive grief counseling is different than traditional therapy. I typically meet with clients once per month on average. Grief is not a problem to be solved, but an experience that evolves. Most people find it helpful to establish a relationship to monitor and explore the changes and shifts that are occuring as time passes.
Are you licensed?
Yes, I am a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) with Advanced Palliative and Hospice Social Work Certification (APHSW-C).
What if I already have a therapist?
No problem! Many people continue to meet with their regular therapist to discuss mental health and other issues while receiving specialized grief support for a wide variety of reasons.
Where are you located?
Howling Lion is located within Post-operative and Therapeutic Massage‘s fully accessible office in Pittsburgh’s Squirrel Hill neighborhood. There is ample parking as well as a convenient bus stop right in front of the building.