Frequently asked questions.

What are therapy sessions like?

50 minute sessions with me are always collaborative, non judgemental, laid back, & compassionate. In our first few sessions, we’ll spend time getting to know each other & establishing a relationship based on trust. We’ll explore your interests, close relationships, & identify the values that drive you. Next, we’ll examine the thoughts, behaviors, & life events that have fueled any anxious thoughts, & identify the reasons you feel stuck. As we work together, we will slowly work to push through limiting beliefs, challenge compulsive habits, develop self compassion, & unpack the societal messages & standards that have influenced the ways we show up in the world, & how we view ourselves.

How long do I need to be in therapy & how often do we meet?

The length of therapy will vary depending on a variety of factors & is specific to each individual & their unique situation. Meaningful & lasting change happens over time, & the length of therapy will reflect the needs of each individual I work with, rather than sticking to a predetermined timeline.

In my experience, I have found that meeting weekly for 50 minute sessions is most clinically appropriate & ensures we are making progress towards their goals. We will reassess & adjust the frequency as needed throughout our work together.

How much does therapy cost?

My session fee is $170 for 50 minutes with limited openings reserved for sliding scale/scholarship pricing. I am an out-of-network provider with most insurance companies. If you have an insurance plan that includes out-of-network benefits, you may be able to use it for reimbursement for my fees of service. Each month, I provide a “superbill” (billing statement) that you may submit to your insurance company for possible reimbursement. The best way to determine your out-of-network benefits is to call the number on the back of your insurance card.

Do you take my insurance?

I am not in-network with any specific insurance company. I am an out-of-network (OON) provider meaning that if your plan has OON benefits, you may be able to submit a claim to your insurance company for reimbursement for some or all of session costs. After making payments to me for therapy services, I provide you with a monthly “superbill” that includes all necessary information for you to submit claims to your insurance company. This is different from a regular invoice due to the additional claim information that is included such as a diagnosis code, CPT codes, my provider number, etc. You may then be reimbursed by your insurance company depending on your plan’s specific benefits.

Do you offer in person &/or virtual sessions?

I provide both virtual & in-person sessions. Many clients I work with prefer a combination of both depending on circumstances, health concerns, or simply convenience. If meeting virtually, a secure link to my “virtual appointment room” is sent via email about 10-15 minutes before each appointment (using HIPAA compliant Zoom as a back up if there are connectivity issues).

What is your availability?

I see clients Monday-Thursday. I am exclusively virtual on Mondays & Thursdays and see clients in my CWE office on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. I have a limited number of evening spots available for teens & young adults that are unable to be excused from school during the day & those with conflicting work schedules.

Where is your office located?

Emily Lombardo Counseling is located in the Central West End neighborhood of St. Louis City at 408 N Euclid Ave Suite 208 Saint Louis, MO 63108 in the Lorraine Building above the former Pi Pizza. There is paid off street parking available via app & free street parking is available further down the block in either direction on McPherson.

Isn’t perfectionism kind of a good thing? Why would someone need therapy for that?

Many people experience an inner drive for excellence, taking genuine pleasure in working hard to meet high standards. Perfectionism, on the other hand, may result in struggles with self doubt, anxiety, & an intense fear of failure. For most people, disciplined behavior can cross the line into perfectionism when it interferes with social, emotional, &/or academic functioning. The idea of being perfect can actually prevent people from reaching their goals- rather than concentrating on the process of accomplishing a task, perfectionists focus exclusively on the outcome, which can hinder their efforts.

You mentioned your practice is Health At Every Size (HAES) informed- what does that mean?

The Health At Every Size (HAES) movement is, “a continuously evolving alternative to the weight-centered approach to treating clients & patients of all sizes. It is also a movement working to promote size-acceptance, to end weight discrimination, & to lessen the cultural obsession with weight loss & thinness. The HAES approach promotes balanced eating, life-enhancing physical activity, & respect for the diversity of body shapes & sizes.” This approach emphasizes that all bodies deserve dignity & respect.

How do we get started?

Click the button below to schedule a free 15-minute consultation. We’ll discuss any questions you have & see if working together feels like a good fit. I can’t wait to hear from you!