Before We Begin
Frequently Asked Questions
The practical details about getting started, meeting online and choosing the right support.

Questions by Topic
Getting Started
What happens in the first session?+
We start with what feels heaviest right now. I'll listen for the patterns in your thoughts and your days, ask plenty of questions, and we'll agree on where to begin. We'll usually end with one small, practical step to try before we meet again.
Are you accepting new clients?+
Yes. I am accepting new clients for telehealth therapy in Maryland. Sessions are available Monday to Friday.
How do I book?+
Start with a free consultation. Booking opens on Alma, the secure platform I use for scheduling. You can ask about therapy, fees and whether the way I work feels right for you before scheduling a first session.
Will I get anything to practice between sessions?+
You may leave with one small, practical step to try between sessions. We will choose it together and use what you notice as information, not as a test you have to complete perfectly.
How do I know if you are the right fit?+
A free consultation is the place to ask questions about my approach and share what you want help with. You can notice whether you feel heard, understand how we might work together and have the information you need to decide.
What does Glow From Within mean?+
It reflects the idea behind my tagline: where inner workings shine from beneath the surface. Therapy can make room to notice what has been happening underneath the responsibilities, patterns and expectations others see.
Questions by Topic
Telehealth
Do you offer in-person sessions?+
All therapy sessions are by secure video, so you can meet with me from home or any private space in Maryland. Sessions are available Monday to Friday.
Can you see me if I live outside Maryland?+
For therapy, you need to be located in Maryland during our sessions, because that's where I'm licensed. If you're somewhere else, the Psychology Today directory can help you find a licensed therapist where you live.
What do I need for a telehealth session?+
A private space in Maryland and a stable internet connection. Headphones may help you speak freely.
Is telehealth therapy private?+
Sessions take place through secure video. You will need a private space in Maryland where you can speak freely, and headphones may help if other people are nearby.
Questions by Topic
Who I See
Who do you work with?+
I work with adults and couples who are located in Maryland. Much of my work is with women who are parenting, caregiving, building careers, or somewhere between married and divorced, and who have been taking care of everyone but themselves. If you're not sure I'm the right fit, the free consultation is a good place to find out.
Do you see couples?+
Yes. Couples therapy takes place by secure video. Both partners must be located in Maryland during sessions. The rate is $190 per session. Couples therapy is self pay; I'm out of network with insurance for couples sessions.
What are your credentials?+
I am Christina Thompson, a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Maryland. I hold an M.S. in Clinical Psychology from Virginia State University, am a certified Army Resiliency Trainer and completed a 200-hour yoga teaching certification.
Do you only work with women?+
I work with adults and couples. Much of my work is with women who have spent a long time prioritizing other people and carrying the mental load, but you do not need to identify as a woman to reach out.
Do you see teenagers?+
I work with adults. If you are looking for support for a teenager, I can point you toward directories that may help you find an appropriate provider.
What if my partner is not ready for couples therapy?+
You can still begin individual therapy to understand your own needs, communication patterns and boundaries. Couples therapy requires both partners to choose to participate.
Do you offer ADHD testing?+
No. I do not offer ADHD testing. We can discuss the patterns you are noticing and how to seek an evaluation if that is what you need.
Questions by Topic
Fees and Insurance
What does therapy cost?+
Individual sessions are $175 and couples sessions are $190. For individual therapy, I accept UnitedHealthcare, UMR, Optum, Aetna, CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield, and self pay. I verify your benefits before our first session so there are no surprises. Couples therapy is self pay; I'm out of network with insurance for couples sessions.
Do you offer a sliding scale?+
Reduced-fee options may be available. Ask about eligibility in your free consultation.
What is your cancellation policy?+
Please cancel or reschedule at least 72 hours before your appointment. If you cancel with less notice and can't make up the session in the same week (Monday to Friday), a $100 cancellation fee applies.
How do I pay if I am not using insurance?+
Individual sessions are $175 and couples sessions are $190. PayPal, Zelle and wire transfer are accepted. You can ask for a Good Faith Estimate.
Questions by Topic
Yoga
Is one-to-one yoga therapy?+
No. One-to-one yoga is a wellness practice live over Zoom. It is separate from therapy and is not billed to insurance.
Can breathing or yoga-based techniques be part of therapy?+
Yes. When it helps, therapy sessions can include breathing and yoga-based techniques. These are used within therapy and are separate from One-to-One Yoga, which is a wellness practice.
Questions by Topic
Safety
Do you prescribe medication?+
No. Licensed counselors don't prescribe medication. If you're considering medication, your primary care doctor or a psychiatric provider can talk it through with you, and therapy can work alongside it.
What if I’m in crisis?+
This practice isn't able to respond to emergencies. If you're in crisis, call or text 988 to reach the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, or call 911.
Your Next Step
Ready to put yourself on the list?
Start with a free consultation. Sessions are by secure video, anywhere in Maryland.
Book a Free ConsultationPrefer to call? 301-615-4076Please don't include clinical details by email or voicemail.
