How do I schedule an appointment?

Get in touch if you'd like to schedule an appointment. If you're feeling unsure or still have unanswered questions, you are also welcome to schedule a free fifteen minute phone consultation.

What can I expect to pay?

the standard rate for counseling is $150 / session. Ash reserves a handful of sliding fee scale spots ranging from $90 - $125 for qualifying clients with no proof of income required. Payment is due at the time of your session and cash, credit card, and HSA card payments are accepted.

Ash is an approved provider for the Grand Rapids Pride Center as well as Stand with Trans Therapy Assistance Programs. These programs offer Financial support / reduced rates for clients pursuing therapy. Contact them today to learn more.

tobin counseling is considered an out-of-network provider with insurance plans. To learn if you qualify for out-of-network benefits, contact your insurance provider. Depending on your plan, you may qualify for full or partial reimbursement. If you qualify, you will be provided with a monthly statement (called a superbill) which you can then submit to your insurance provider.

do you accept insurance?

For a number of reasons, Tobin counseling is a private pay practice and does not participate in insurance plans.

TC offers specialized, queer and trans competent care. Given the current political climate, the rising costs/corruption of our healthcare system, and the pathologizing, one-size-fits-all approach to mental health, many clients are seeking specialized providers to meet their unique needs.

you deserve privacy and personal agency in your therapeutic care. your personal health information is protected, meaning you get to choose if, when, and how to share it. Insurance does not get to dictate the frequency or duration of your care.

You deserve transparency with fees and billing practices. TC won’t send you any surprise bills and you’ll know what you’re paying from the start.

How often will we meet?

Sessions are 50 minutes long and occur on a weekly basis – especially as we begin working together.

What will the first session be like?

The goal of the first session is to get to know each other. Research tells us that up to 80% of your success in counseling is due to the relationship you develop with your therapist, regardless of theoretical orientation. This being the case, it is important to prioritize finding a counselor you feel you work well with. We'll cover how the process works, discuss any questions you may have, and explore what brings you to counseling. 

Are you queer and/or trans friendly?

Absolutely! Tobin Counseling is Queer / Trans / Non-binary owned and was created to specifically support LGBTQIA+ mental health. You may have a label that fits you well, you may reject labels altogether, or maybe your label hasn't been invented yet. Wherever you happen to land on the spectrums of gender and sexuality, you belong and are accepted as you are.

Do you write gender-affirming care letters?

Yes, Ash is well versed in the process and writes letters for clients ages 18+ who live in the state of Michigan. There is no minimum requirement for the number of sessions prior to writing a letter. for some clients this information can be gathered in a single session, for others it may take longer just depending on the client’s needs. You’ll pay for the cost of your session ($150) and the letter is free. learn more on our gender-affirming care page.

Are poly and non-monogamy friendly?

Yes! Ash works with clients in all sorts of relationship structures. You are safe and welcome here!

Is my information kept confidential?

The privacy and confidentiality of my clients is of utmost importance. The information you share in counseling will be kept confidential aside from your giving me written permission and consent to share as needed. There are a few exceptions wherein confidentiality cannot be granted and we will cover these in detail during your first session.

Do you offer telehealth / online counseling?

Yes, Ash provides Telehealth and online counseling services to individuals in the state of Michigan via secure and HIPAA-compliant software.

Do you offer referrals?

My goal is to help you find the right fit in a therapist. If tc isn’t the right fit, I will gladly provide you with alternative referrals. TC is well-networked with a variety of providers in the Grand Rapids community including other counselors, social workers, health care professionals, and body-based care. 

Will you consult with my organization or speak at my event?

Supporting the health and wellness of the Grand Rapids community is important to tc. ash welcomes the opportunity to consult with your organization or to present at your upcoming event. Topics of interest include LGBTQIA+ issues and training, writing referral letters for gender-affirming care, creating a more inclusive practice, and innovating team processes.