The term "Hope Merchant" comes from a trauma informed therapeutic modality called Internal Family Systems or IFS for short. Within IFS and at Hope Merchant Counseling, a big focus is offering hope for growth, possibility, change, and healing. The therapists and counselors at HMC strive to offer that to every client no matter the approach. We believe, that if you're sitting across from one of us, you want something different, better or maybe even an elevated experience. We're here to give you that.

That is a fair and great question, AND, it just depends. What you can always expect is sacred space held just for you, room to breathe, and an authentic, non-judgmental support. You can expect that your therapist has been carefully interviewed and vetted for the ability to connect authentically, awareness of trauma and trauma informed approaches, and the ability to flex and bend in an integrative and eclectic way which honors your needs.

Because queer, trans, and people of color are oppressed and marginalized and because these minorities are not treated fairly or equitably. It is important that queer, trans, and people of color know where their safe spaces and resources are.

In short, insurance is a hassle and doesn't truly honor your health and wellness. We don’t accept insurance because insurance companies don’t have YOU in their best interest, and they don’t have mental health professionals in their best interest.

Should everyone be able to use their insurance benefits as they want and see fit? Totally. Should everyone have access to mental health care? A B S O L U T E L Y. Should some stranger who doesn’t know you and who is not professionally trained in mental health make that choice for you? Absolutely NOT.

Finally, insurance companies can request your health record at any time: The only person who should be able to share your information with anyone, is you. By omitting the insurance bit, we get to work together when we want, how we want, and in your best interest.

And still, if you'd like a superbill for reimbursement from your insurance provider we can make that happen! Please know reimbursement is never guaranteed.

With exception of two cancellations per year, we have a “no cancellation” policy. If you must cancel, you may reschedule for another time that works better for you, within your therapist's availability. Because we hold space just for you, you will be charged for the missed session. We will not however, charge you for your makeup session. This allows us to offer consistency and flexibility, while holding smaller caseloads in order to offer you our most focused and engaged selves, preserve our own emotional and mental wellbeing, and offer the holistic, sacred space we promise to hold for you. Good therapy is sometimes hard therapy, which requires a big commitment from you and a big commitment from your therapist beyond the hour that you're working with them. We're asking for a lot from you--we promise to give a lot back. Any therapist time off will be communicated well in advance (except in the case of emergency) in which case you will not be charged.

This is such a B I G answer, and there are so many different ways to answer. Trauma informed, through the lens of Hope Merchant Counseling means an integrative, comprehensive, and holistic approach which acknowledges your lived experiences while respecting your window of tolerance and safety. The widespread impact of your experiences will be explored to reduce guilt and shame, without inflicting fear or retraumatization.

First, read the bit about "bandaid therapy" on our “about” page. Also, the therapists at HMC have a true passion for helping people achieve their goals, and have the time and capacity to engage intentionally. We offer an integrative approach because we care about all parts of you, and have time and space for emotional health and wellness, training, consultation, research, and thoughtfulness. With all of this, we can do focused, intentional, and meaningful work.

Though we hope you'll talk openly about how cool it is to have a therapist, and to do the hard things with support, the answer to your question is, "Totally!". Your privacy, confidentiality, and sense of safety is of utmost importance to us and something we are ethically bound to. It is important to note however, that in the case of child or elder abuse, intent of homicide, or intent of suicide, we are mandated reporters. This means that in these situations, we are required by law to report to the local authorities. In these cases, you will be informed and involved.