FAQ

Getting Started

This is my first time navigating the therapy process. What can I expect?

• Starting therapy for the first time can feel overwhelming, but our goal is to make the process as comfortable and straightforward as possible.

The process begins with intake paperwork, which helps us gather background information and better understand your needs. From there, you’ll meet with your therapist for an initial intake appointment (or a parent consultation if your child is the client). This first meeting is focused on reviewing practice policies, creating a treatment plan, and answering any questions you may have.

Therapy is a collaborative process. Your therapist will work with you to explore your needs, build trust, and provide support through evidence-based approaches tailored to your situation. Early sessions are about building comfort and connection—progress grows over time as you and your therapist continue working together.

We encourage you to ask questions and share feedback along the way. Our team is here to guide you step by step, so you feel supported from the very beginning.

How do I know which of your therapists is right for me?

• If after reviewing our therapists profiles, you are still unsure which one will be the best fit for your needs, please contact our Clinical Director (Contact@UnwrittenEndingsLLC.com) to assist you.

Why do you collect some much information on your intake forms?

• We know our intake forms can feel long and sometimes leave you feeling a bit exposed as you put everything out there. The reason we ask for this level of detail is that it helps us build a fuller picture of you or your child right from the start. Sometimes important pieces of someone’s story don’t come up in the first few sessions—or can be hard to say out loud at first. Writing them down on the forms can feel easier and gives your therapist valuable insight to better understand your needs.

  You are always welcome to give as little or as much detail as you would like. The forms are simply a tool to help us support you more thoughtfully when you begin therapy.

What can I expect during my first session?

• During your first appointment, your therapist will review your completed intake forms and ask following up questions. A treatment plan will be made based on your needs and our practice policies will be reviewed.

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Care & Coverage

What is the difference between an LLMSW and an LMSW, and how does this affect my treatment?

• In Michigan, an LLMSW (Limited Licensed Master Social Worker) is a therapist who has completed a master’s degree in social work and is working toward full licensure. This is a minimum two-year process that requires supervised clinical hours and additional training before advancement. An LMSW (Licensed Master Social Worker) has completed that process, earned full licensure, and is able to practice independently. You can think of it like the difference between a resident and a physician. A resident is a fully trained doctor who is still completing supervised practice before becoming fully independent, while a physician has completed that process and can practice on their own.

At Unwritten Endings, we are passionate about supporting LLMSWs as they grow in their careers. Our goal is to help the next generation of therapists reach their professional milestones while continuing to provide clients with meaningful, consistent care.

Insurance note: Our LLMSWs are credentialed with Blue Cross Blue Shield and Aetna. They are not able to accept Blue Care Network (BCN) due to insurance credentialing rules.

How much does each session cost?

• That depends on your insurance benefits. If you’d like us to verify your benefits, email a photo of the front and back of your insurance card, along with the client’s name and date of birth to PracticeManager@UnwrittenEndingsLLC.com. Our Practice Manager, Christina Ehli, will provide you with more information about the out of pocket cost determined by your insurance company.
• If you are paying out of pocket for services, you can find our current rates here.

How long are appointments?

• Individual therapy appointments are 53 minutes.
• Family and couple therapy appointments are 38 minutes (due to insurance restrictions).

What happens if I miss a session?

• If you no-show to your scheduled appointment time, you will be charged a no show fee. Please make every effort to cancel your scheduled appointment at least 24 hours prior to your appointment to avoid a late cancellation and/or no show fee.

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Therapy Process

How many sessions will I need?

• It is difficult to determine how many sessions will be necessary for an individual to make significant and long-lasting changes in therapy. It is recommended however, that you allow at least ten to twelve weekly sessions, followed by re-evaluation. You and your therapist will collaboratively discuss what the next steps are and how often therapy sessions will occur from session to session.

What if I don’t feel like my therapist is a good fit?

• Finding the right fit can be challenging. If you feel that the therapist you have chosen is not a good fit, please contact the Clinical Director (Contact@UnwrittenEndingsLLC.com) to discuss your concerns.

What if my teen doesn’t want to attend therapy, but they need to?

• We encourage teens to attend at least three sessions before making a decision about whether therapy feels right for them. These first sessions give your teen a chance to get comfortable with their therapist, build rapport, and see what the process is really like.

  We do not believe in forcing a teen to continue therapy against their will. Doing so can create resentment or mistrust, making it less likely they’ll reach out for support in the future when they are ready. If, after a few sessions, your teen still does not want to continue, we respect that choice while leaving the door open for them to return when they feel ready to engage.

Can you tell me what my child talks about in therapy?

• As a general rule of thumb, we will always request that you ask your child to share that information with you first. If your child refuses to disclose what happens during the session, we may share general themes that we are seeing and are working on.
• If your therapist believes that your child is a danger to themselves, a danger to others, or presents information related to abuse or neglect of a minor or vulnerable adult, you will be notified if appropriate.

Can I join my child in their sessions?

• We consider this request on a case-by-case basis. If it is determined that your presence and participation in your child’s treatment may hinder their progress, your request may be denied. However, if your child’s therapists feels that it will be beneficial to your child’s well-being and growth, your presence and participation will be requested. It is also important to us that your child has the opportunity to consent to your participation.

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Policies

Why do you require both parents to consent to a minor’s treatment?

• Because therapy works best when it begins with clarity and agreement, we ask that both birth/adoptive parents and/or legal guardians be notified and given the opportunity to consent before a minor begins treatment. Even if one parent does not hold legal decision-making rights, we prefer they be aware and offered the chance to participate in the consent process.

  If a parent or guardian cannot be reached, is uninvolved, or declines to participate, we may proceed when appropriate—but our policy is to make a good-faith effort to include both parents whenever possible. This helps create a more stable and supportive environment for the child and reduces conflict around treatment.

  If you have questions about possible exceptions to this policy, please contact us at Contact@UnwrittenEndingsLLC.com

Do I need to stay on the premises during my child’s appointment?

• Yes. We ask that a parent or guardian remain on-site while their child is in session. This helps us ensure your child’s safety, and it also allows us to reach you quickly if something comes up during the appointment. If staying on-site isn’t possible, please make alternative arrangements in advance so your child’s session can run smoothly.

Can I leave my child or their sibling in the waiting room during a session?

• No. Minors may not be left unaccompanied in the waiting room at any time. Parents, guardians, or another responsible adult must remain with any child who is not in session. This includes siblings who come along to appointments. If you bring another child with you, you are responsible for supervising them in the waiting room for the entire duration of the session.

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*The information in this FAQ section is of general guidance.
For more information tailored to your specific needs, please contact us at 810-444-2484