Frequently asked questions

Your first session is a chance for us to get acquainted. I'll ask about what brought you here, your background, current challenges, and what you hope to achieve. You'll also have time to ask questions about my approach and how therapy works. We'll review confidentiality and logistics, and start building our therapeutic relationship. Remember—you're in the driver's seat. This is a collaborative partnership.

It depends on your unique needs and goals. Some clients achieve significant progress in 8-12 sessions, while others benefit from longer-term support. We'll regularly check in on your progress and adjust our approach accordingly. There's no one-size-fits-all timeline—we'll work at a pace that feels right for you and your situation.

I am an in-network provider on several insurance panels. If you would like to file on insurance, please let me know prior to the intake session so we can discuss this further. I also can provide you with a detailed receipt (superbill) that you can submit to your insurance company for potential reimbursement. Many insurance plans cover out-of-network mental health services. I recommend calling your insurance provider to ask about your out-of-network benefits and reimbursement rates.

Life happens, and I understand schedules change. I require at least 24 hours' notice if you need to cancel or reschedule, which allows me to offer your slot to another client. Late cancellations (less than 24 hours' notice) or missed appointments will be charged the full session fee, as I'm unable to fill that time on short notice.

Absolutely. What you share in our sessions is protected by law and professional ethics. There are only a few exceptions where I'm legally required to break confidentiality: imminent danger to yourself or others, suspected child or elder abuse, or court-ordered release of records. I'll always discuss these limits with you during our first session and address any confidentiality concerns you may have.

Yes! I offer secure telehealth sessions for clients who prefer online therapy or can't attend in-person. Research shows telehealth can be just as effective as face-to-face therapy while offering greater flexibility and accessibility. All sessions use a HIPAA-compliant video platform to protect your privacy. We can discuss which option—online or in-person—works best for your situation.

Play therapy is a specialized approach for children ages 3-11 who express themselves more naturally through play than words. Using toys, games, art, and creative activities, children communicate their feelings and experiences in ways that feel safe and natural to them. Through play, they process difficult emotions, work through trauma, develop coping skills, and build resilience. As a Registered Play Therapist-Supervisor (RPT-S), I have advanced training in this powerful therapeutic method.

Getting started is simple! Call me at 214.477.6945 or email at melanie.prescott@gmail.com to schedule a complimentary 15-minute consultation. During this brief call, we'll discuss your needs, answer your questions, and see if we're a good match. If we decide to work together, we'll schedule your first session and I'll send intake paperwork via my provider portal to complete beforehand.

All sessions—individual counseling, play therapy, and activity therapy—are $160 for 50 minutes. Payment is due at the time of service, and I accept cash, check, and major credit cards. I believe quality mental health care should be accessible and am committed to working with you to make therapy financially manageable.