How do you pronounce your last name?
Thanks for asking! Barabas is pronounced /bərɑbəz/, or think “Carraba’s, but with a B”.
What are all the letters behind your name?
Good question!
MSW: This stands for my master’s degree in social work (which I obtained at Salisbury University);
LCSW-C: This stands for Licensed Certified Social Worker – Clinical, and it is the level of licensure I have obtained through the Maryland Board of Social Work Examiners.
Do I need therapy?
I believe that everyone can benefit from therapy, while at the same time knowing that people can be incredibly resilient, strong, and resourceful. The short answer is that it is completely up to you! Nobody can be forced into doing therapy, but therapy can help rediscover strengths, learn new skills, unlearn maladaptive mechanisms, with the ultimate goal to regain a sense of power over your life.
What should I expect from an appointment?
A typical appointment is completely up to you, the client. There is no “one size fits all” in therapy, and I am here to collaborate with you in mapping out a treatment plan to support you in getting to your desired goals. I am here to provide a listening ear, a safe space to ventilate, explore, or be vulnerable. The most important thing is that you feel like you receive what you need, and we will assess if we are on the right track throughout the therapeutic process.
How do I find the right therapist?
This is one of the most important questions regarding therapy. The right therapist is the one that creates a safe and trusting environment for you, the client. Whatever your goals, you need to be able to trust your therapist and to feel heard, validated, and not judged. There is no therapy if there is no trust. Like any relationship, sometimes the connection with and the trust in your therapist will be instantaneous, and sometimes the trust and the rapport are built over time. My hope is that I am the right therapist for you, but if I’m not, I will be glad to offer you referrals and assist you in finding the right fit.
Is Intentional Counseling and Wellness right for me?
Intentional Counseling and Wellness offers services to all people. I have worked extensively with children, adolescents, and adults. I enjoy working with people from all cultural, sexual, religious, and socio-economic backgrounds. For a more about my style and areas of focus, see the About Me page.
What insurances do you take?
I currently accept Cigna and in I am in the process of getting credentialed with Carefirst/Blue Cross Blue Shield(check back soon). My self-pay fees are listed on the Fees page.
Are sessions in person or online?
In response to COVID-19, sessions are conducted online for clients located anywhere in the state of Maryland. I utilize a secure, HIPAA-compliant telehealth platform for all telehealth sessions. During our first session we will discuss back-up plans in case of internet shortage or technology malfunction.
Based on need, I have a very limited number of sessions available in-person. Masks are mandatory and I require proof of vaccination prior to scheduling in-person sessions.
Are telehealth sessions private?
Yes! I conduct online telehealth sessions through a secure, encrypted HIPAA-compliant platform that is designed specifically for healthcare/telehealth. It is your responsibility to ensure privacy on your end by attending your therapy sessions from a location that is private and free of interruptions. This will be covered in depth in the informed consent and during our first session.
What if I’m not tech savvy?
You can join a telehealth therapy session from any device connected to the internet – your phone, tablet, laptop, or desktop computer. I will provide a link and step-by-step instruction. We can also schedule a “test run” prior to your first appointment to make sure everything is working properly.
Will I have to do homework outside of therapy sessions?
Sometimes. While this is not a tool I use regularly, homework can be assigned occasionally if it benefits you, the client, and aligns with your treatment goals. However, you are always welcome to bring in things you have worked on in between sessions or that you are proud of.
How do I make an appointment?
You can schedule an appointment with me by clicking here
Can I receive treatment without medication?
Absolutely! You do not need to take medication to come to therapy. If you are looking for someone who can prescribe medication, I am not able to do that. Medication can be received from licensed prescribers such as psychiatrists, primary care doctors, nurse practitioners, or others. Therapy is a great way to complement treatment when taking psychiatric medication such as anti-depressants or anti-anxiety medications. Some people prefer to try therapy as a drug-free method of alleviating symptoms. If you need advice regarding psychiatric medication, please consult with a licensed prescriber.
Any other questions?
Email me at Diana@intentionalcounselingandwellness.com to schedule an appointment for specific questions.