Frequently Asked Questions
Starting therapy — or starting somewhere new — can bring up a lot of questions. We’ve answered the most common ones below. If you don’t see what you’re looking for, don’t hesitate to reach out directly.
Getting Started
How do I know if therapy is right for me?
If something in your life feels heavy, stuck, or hard to navigate on your own — therapy can help. You don’t have to be in crisis to benefit from support. Many people come to therapy during transitions, when patterns keep repeating, when relationships feel strained, or simply when they want to understand themselves better.
If you’re unsure, a free 15-minute consultation is a low-pressure way to ask questions and get a feel for whether it’s the right fit. Schedule a free consultation here.
How do I get started at A New Dawn Therapy?
You can get started in a few ways — book online, call us at 608-480-8013, or reach out through our contact page. We’ll start with a free 15-minute consultation to talk through what you’re looking for, answer your questions, and make sure we’re a good fit before scheduling your first full session.
Do you offer a free consultation?
Yes. We offer a free 15-minute phone or video consultation for all new clients. This is a chance for you to ask questions, share a little about what’s bringing you to therapy, and get a sense of whether A New Dawn Therapy feels like the right fit. There’s no commitment required. Schedule yours here.
How do I choose the right therapist?
The relationship between you and your therapist matters more than any single credential or specialty. A good fit means feeling safe, heard, and respected — and that the therapist’s approach resonates with you. We encourage you to visit our team page to learn more about our therapists, their backgrounds, and their approaches. And remember — our free consultation is a great opportunity to get a feel for the connection before you commit.
The Therapy Process
How long does therapy take?
There’s no single answer — and anyone who gives you one without knowing you should be approached with caution. The length of therapy depends on what you’re working on, your goals, your history, and how you respond to the process. Some people find meaningful relief in a focused, short-term engagement. Others benefit from longer-term work, especially when addressing complex trauma, deeply rooted patterns, or significant life transitions.
We check in regularly on your progress and adjust the plan as needed. You are always part of that conversation.
How often will we meet?
Most clients begin with weekly sessions, which helps build momentum and consistency — especially in the early stages of therapy. As you progress, sessions may shift to every other week or as needed. The frequency of sessions is something we discuss and adjust together based on your goals, schedule, and how things are going.
Will I have homework or exercises between sessions?
Sometimes, yes — though we use the word “practice” more than “homework.” Depending on the approaches we’re using and what you’re working on, your therapist may suggest exercises, reflections, readings, or small practices to try between sessions. These are always offered as tools, never requirements — and they’re tailored to what actually fits your life. For clients who are high achievers or goal-oriented, between-session work can be a meaningful way to build on what we explore together.
Is what I share in therapy confidential?
Yes. Confidentiality is a cornerstone of the therapeutic relationship. What you share in sessions is protected and private. There are a small number of legal and ethical exceptions — including situations where there is risk of harm to yourself or others, suspected child or vulnerable adult abuse, or a court order — which your therapist will explain clearly during your first session. Outside of those specific circumstances, your privacy is fully protected.
What if I don't feel like therapy is working?
Please tell your therapist. Honest feedback makes the work better — not worse. If something isn’t landing, if the pace doesn’t feel right, or if you’re not sure you’re moving in the right direction, that’s important information. We’d rather adjust the approach than have you quietly disengage. Therapy is a collaborative process, and your experience of it matters.
Our Clinical Approach
What therapeutic approaches do you use?
We tailor our approach to each individual client rather than applying a single method to everyone. Our work draws from a range of evidence-based modalities including:
- EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) — for trauma, anxiety, and deeply held patterns
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) — to identify and shift unhelpful thought patterns
- Trauma-informed care — grounding all of our work in safety, pacing, and respect for your story
- Somatic approaches — attending to the body’s role in emotional experience
- DBT skills — for emotional regulation and distress tolerance
- Strength-based and person-centered therapy — building on what you already carry
Learn more about our services and approach here.
What is EMDR and is it right for me?
EMDR is an evidence-based therapy originally developed for trauma, and now widely used for anxiety, phobias, grief, and other concerns. It works by helping your brain reprocess memories and experiences that are still causing distress — so that old triggers lose their intensity and your nervous system can respond with more ease.
EMDR is not right for everyone, and your therapist will help you assess whether it’s a good fit for your goals and readiness. Learn more about our approach here.
What areas do you specialize in?
A New Dawn Therapy specializes in anxiety, PTSD and trauma, pregnancy and postpartum mental health, parenting, and LGBTQIA+ affirming care. We also have particular experience working with high achievers and overwhelmed parents who are navigating the intersection of personal and professional demands.
As our practice grows, we are actively expanding our team to bring in additional specialties including couples therapy, child and adolescent services, and depression. Explore all of our services here.
Scheduling & Logistics
How do I schedule an appointment?
You can schedule online, call us at 608-480-8013, or reach out through our contact page. New clients start with a free 15-minute consultation before booking their first full session.
What is your cancellation policy?
We ask that you provide at least 24 hours notice if you need to cancel or reschedule an appointment. Late cancellations and no-shows — meaning cancellations with less than 24 hours notice — will be charged the full session fee. Insurance cannot be billed for missed sessions. We understand that life happens and will always do our best to work with you — but consistent attendance is an important part of making progress in therapy.
What do I do if I need to contact my therapist between sessions?
For non-urgent questions or scheduling needs, you can reach us through our secure client portal or by calling our office at 608-480-8013. Please note that between-session contact is intended for administrative needs — if you are experiencing a crisis, please call 988 or the Dane County crisis line at 608-280-2600. Visit our resources page for a full list of crisis support options.
Insurance & Cost
Do you accept insurance?
Yes. We are in-network with Anthem, Blue Cross Blue Shield, WPS, The Alliance, United Health Care, Dean Health Plan, Aetna, Cigna, and Health Partners. For the most accurate information about your specific benefits, we recommend calling the member services number on the back of your insurance card.
What are your private pay rates?
Our private pay rates are $250 for an initial intake session and $200 per ongoing individual therapy session. A limited number of sliding scale spots are available for clients experiencing financial hardship. Learn more on our rates page.
Do you offer a sliding scale?
Yes — we offer a limited number of reduced fee spots for clients experiencing financial hardship. Fees are determined through an open, nonjudgmental conversation. If cost is a concern, please don’t let that stop you from reaching out. Learn more about our sliding scale options here.
Telehealth & Online Therapy
Do you offer online therapy?
Yes. We offer telehealth therapy for clients throughout Wisconsin via secure video sessions. Online therapy provides the same quality of care as in-person sessions with the added flexibility of attending from wherever you are. Learn more about our telehealth services here.
Is telehealth covered by insurance?
Most major insurance plans that cover in-person therapy also cover telehealth sessions, though coverage policies vary by plan. We recommend confirming with your insurer before your first telehealth appointment. Visit our rates and insurance page for more information.
What do I need for a telehealth session?
You’ll need a device with a camera and microphone — a smartphone, tablet, or computer all work well — along with a reliable internet connection. Most importantly, you’ll want a private, quiet space where you feel comfortable speaking openly. Headphones can help with both sound quality and privacy. Your therapist will send you a secure link before your session.
Still have a question that isn’t answered here? We’d love to hear from you. Call us at 608-480-8013 or reach out through our contact page — no question is too small.
Ready to take the first step? Schedule a free 15-minute consultation today.
Or call us at 608-480-8013