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Therapy FAQs
Not sure what to expect from therapy? The therapy FAQs break down the most common questions about individual and couples counseling—click any question to learn more.
Pricing & Insurance
How much do you charge?
Individual sessions: $160 per 50 minutes, $210 per 90 minutes.
Couples sessions: $240 per 90 minutes. I believe 90-minute sessions are necessary for couples to fully explore their stories and work effectively on their relationship.
If cost is a barrier, please reach out. I offer a sliding scale to ensure everyone can benefit from the support they need.
Do you take insurance?
For individual therapy, I accept Cigna, Aetna, Optum, and Carelon. Insurance plans generally don’t cover couples therapy, so I don’t bill insurance for couples work. However, if your plan includes out-of-network (OON) benefits, I can provide a superbill for potential reimbursement.
What is a superbill?
A superbill is a detailed invoice that includes provider and patient information, diagnosis codes, procedure codes, and the cost of services. You can submit it to your insurance company for potential reimbursement under your out-of-network benefits.
What if I can't afford therapy?
I offer a sliding scale for clients who need it. Reach out and we’ll have an honest conversation about what’s manageable. If my practice isn’t the right fit financially, I’m happy to recommend St. Louis area community mental health resources.
Getting Started
How do I book an appointment?
Click ‘Begin Now’ at the top of any page to access my scheduling portal, or contact me directly at raber@luminous-therapy.com or 314-266-9188.
How do I prepare for my first session?
Come with an open mind and a willingness to share what brought you here. It can help to think ahead about specific concerns you’d like to address — but you don’t need a polished list. For couples, it’s useful to talk briefly with your partner beforehand about shared goals.
Do you see clients virtually or in person?
I offer both virtual and in-person sessions. Virtual sessions are conducted via a HIPAA-compliant telehealth platform to ensure confidentiality and security. In-person sessions are held at 3 The Pines Ct., St. Louis, MO 63141.
Can I switch therapists if it's not the right fit?
Yes — and finding the right fit matters enormously. If we work together for a few sessions and it doesn’t feel right, I’d rather you find someone who clicks than stay out of obligation. I’m happy to provide referrals.
How Therapy Works
What therapeutic approaches do you use?
I primarily use the Internal Family Systems (IFS) model, focusing on the 8 Cs: Curiosity, Calm, Compassion, Clarity, Creativity, Courage, Confidence, and Connectedness. I also incorporate other evidence-based practices, including the Gottman Method for couples, to tailor the therapy to your unique needs.
How long does a therapy session last?
Individual sessions are 50 minutes. Couples sessions are 90 minutes — I find the longer format gives couples enough room to actually do meaningful work rather than rushing.
How often should I come, and how long does therapy take?
Most clients start weekly because the research shows that’s the most impactful frequency. As you progress, we’ll adjust. My goal is to graduate you from therapy as soon as you’re ready — not to keep you in it.
Some clients see meaningful change in a few months; others work with me longer for deeper or more complex issues.
Is everything I share confidential?
Yes, with limited exceptions required by law: imminent risk of harm to yourself or others, suspicion of child or elder abuse, or a court order. We’ll go over confidentiality and its limits in our first session.
Specific Situations
How do I know if I need individual therapy or couples therapy?
If you’re navigating something internal — anxiety, depression, trauma, identity, life transitions — individual therapy is usually the right starting point. If the core issue is between you and a partner — communication breakdowns, recurring conflict, infidelity, intimacy — couples therapy is the better fit.
If you’re not sure, I’m happy to talk it through in a brief consultation.
What if my partner doesn't want to come to therapy?
It’s common. Sometimes the most useful thing is for the willing partner to start individual therapy first — that often shifts the dynamic at home and can make couples therapy more accessible later. I’m happy to talk about whichever path fits your situation.
Can therapy help even if we're considering separation or divorce?
Yes. Therapy isn’t only about saving relationships — it’s about making informed, considered decisions. Whether the work leads to reconnection, a thoughtful separation, or clarity about which way to go, having a guide for that process matters.
What should I do if I'm in crisis?
Therapy isn’t designed for emergencies. If you’re in immediate crisis, call or text 988 (Suicide & Crisis Lifeline), call 911, or go to your nearest emergency room. For Missouri-specific support, you can also reach Behavioral Health Response (BHR) at 1-800-811-4760.
