Frequently asked questions
What questions do people ask before starting counseling?
Starting counseling can feel like a lot of unknowns. Here are honest answers about cost, insurance, the first session, faith, confidentiality and how to get started.
What does counseling cost, and what insurance is accepted?
How much does counseling cost, and does Lori take insurance?
Fees are not published on this website, so ask about current rates when you reach out. Lori currently accepts Wellmark / Blue Cross Blue Shield, HealthPartners and MultiPlan, and private pay is also available. EAP sessions are not available.
What insurance plans does Lori accept?
Lori currently accepts Wellmark / Blue Cross Blue Shield, HealthPartners and MultiPlan. If you plan to use insurance, you are responsible for confirming that Lori is an approved covered provider before your appointment. Insurance participation can change, so please confirm current status by phone at 319-240-5035.
For more detail, see Insurance & Practical Information or the Good Faith Estimate page.
What are sessions, scheduling and the first appointment like?
What happens in the first counseling session?
Mostly it is a conversation. Lori listens first and gets to know you as a person, not a problem. You will talk about what is happening, what may be keeping you stuck, what you want to be different, and the small, practical steps that move you toward it. There is no pressure to explain everything perfectly in one hour.
How long does therapy usually take?
There is no set number of sessions. Some people come for a handful of meetings and others stay longer. It depends on what you are working through and what you need. Sessions are typically one hour.
Who can Lori see? What ages?
Lori offers individual counseling for females approximately ages 13 to 65. That includes middle school, high school and college students, as well as adult women.
Can I do online counseling, or only in person?
You can meet in person at 3356 Kimball Avenue in Waterloo, Iowa, or online. Online sessions are available to clients physically located in Iowa, because care is considered to be provided where the client is located.
You can meet in the Waterloo office, minutes from Cedar Falls, or online anywhere in Iowa.
How do faith, confidentiality and spiritual direction work?
Is Lori a Christian counselor? Will faith be part of sessions?
Lori is a Licensed Independent Social Worker and a Certified Spiritual Director. If your faith matters to you, it is welcome in the room. You choose how much or how little it shapes the conversation. You can read more on the Christian counseling page or see how counseling and spiritual direction differ.
Is what I share confidential?
Yes, with the standard legal and ethical limits that apply to any licensed counselor. Lori will explain those limits so you know what to expect. You can also read the Notice of Privacy Practices for more detail.
How do I schedule? Is there online booking?
There is no online scheduling. Appointments are arranged by phone or email. Office hours are Monday through Thursday, 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM. Lori typically replies within one to two business days.
What is the difference between counseling and spiritual direction?
Counseling addresses emotional, mental and relational health and may work with diagnoses, patterns and practical coping. Spiritual direction is a slower, prayerful companionship focused on noticing God's presence and movement in your life. Spiritual direction is private pay.
Learn more about Christian counseling, spiritual direction or how the two differ.
Reaching out can be the first step.
You don't need to know exactly what to say, or have anything figured out, before you contact Lori.
Or email rasmussencounselingandsd@gmail.com