I currently accept the following insurance plans:

• Blue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS) of North Dakota and most out-of-state BCBS policies

• North Dakota Medicaid (NDMA)

• Sanford Health Plan

• Sanford Employee Plan

• Medica/United Healthcare *NEW*

More insurance options may be added in the future. Self-pay rates are also available and can be negotiated.

At the end of our first session, we’ll discuss what frequency feels right for you. It’s important to me that we meet at a pace that aligns with your needs. Most clients choose to meet once a week or every other week, but some find it helpful to meet twice a week. Ideally, I recommend starting with weekly sessions for the first 4-6 weeks to establish a strong foundation.

Turning Tides Counseling Services currently offers therapy exclusively via telehealth, giving you flexibility in choosing where you’d like to meet from. I’ll be meeting you from inside my cat’s apartment (yes, really!). However, there are a few places on your end that aren’t suitable for sessions:

• While driving in your vehicle

• In the bathroom

• Any location where your confidentiality might be compromised (such as a coffee shop, bookstore, or your work cubicle)

Choosing a private and safe space is important for maintaining the quality and confidentiality of our sessions.

The easiest way to get started is by scheduling an appointment online through the Simple Practice link on the Contact page. If you have any questions or concerns, feel free to email me at mcfarrencounseling@outlook.com or fill out the form on the Contact page. You can also call me at 701-526-3300.

Once you've expressed interest in starting therapy, I will send you a packet of paperwork to complete before your first appointment.

There’s no specific criteria you need to meet to benefit from seeing a therapist. However, here are some common signs that therapy might be helpful for you:

• You’re experiencing suicidal thoughts, self-harm behaviors, or ongoing thoughts of harming others

• You’re struggling to function in an area of your life—whether it's school, work, relationships, or taking care of yourself—due to overwhelming emotions or relationship issues

• You’re using substances as a way to cope with your emotions

• You’re feeling stuck or finding it hard to discover a sense of purpose in your life

If any of these resonate with you, therapy could be a supportive step forward.

First, you are the expert of your own life. I’m here to support you and cheer you on through some tough decisions, but I won’t have all the answers to solve your struggles. If I did, I’d write a book and have my own talk show!

It’s important to have realistic expectations. Therapy can be life-changing, but it doesn’t fix everything in just a few sessions. It takes time and hard work. You should expect to feel challenged, which might involve answering difficult questions, taking accountability for past mistakes, or confronting uncomfortable emotions. Therapy can be emotionally exhausting at times, but it’s part of the growth process.

Most importantly, be honest with yourself and with me. This time is dedicated to you and your long-term well-being. I’m not here to judge you, but to show you that it’s possible to receive love and compassion, no matter your past.

Telehealth therapy offers flexibility and convenience, allowing you to connect with me from the comfort of your own environment. To make the most of your virtual sessions, it’s important to create an ideal setup. Here are some tips to help you get the best experience:

• Choose a quiet, private space where you won’t be interrupted. Close your windows to avoid outside noise.

• Make sure your lighting is adequate so I can clearly see your facial expressions.

• Ensure your space is comfortable, and be mindful of the chair you’ll be sitting on.

• Remove distractions like phone notifications, music, or background noises.

• Keep comforts close by, such as snacks, tissues, blankets, fidgets, water, tea, or even your pet.

• Test your internet connection before each session to ensure it’s stable.

• Restart your computer before the session to avoid technical issues.

• Use headphones for better sound quality and privacy.

• Position your webcam at an appropriate angle so I can see your entire face.

• Log into Simple Practice a few minutes early to be ready for your session.

• If possible, have a backup smart device handy. If needed, we can switch to a phone call as a last resort.

By setting up an optimal environment, you can make your telehealth therapy sessions more effective and focused on your well-being.