Starting therapy

So you're thinking about
finding a counselor.

Good. That took something. Here's everything you need to know — about the process, about Kirk, and about whether this might be the right fit.

Finding the right fit

Therapy is like a shoe. Fit matters more than brand.

The most important factor in whether therapy works isn't the therapist's credentials, their theoretical orientation, or even their years of experience. It's whether you feel safe, seen, and comfortable enough to be honest. That's the fit.

A great therapist for someone else might not be the right therapist for you — and that's okay. Kirk would rather help you find the right fit than keep you as a client who isn't getting what they need.

So before you reach out, here are four honest questions worth sitting with:

Do I want someone warm and relational, or more structured and directive?

Kirk leans relational. The connection is the work. If you want a highly structured, protocol-driven approach, he may not be the best fit.

Am I ready to be honest — even about the stuff I'm not proud of?

Therapy only works if you're willing to be real. Kirk creates a safe space for that, but he can't do it for you.

Can I handle occasional humor in a serious space?

Kirk is warm and occasionally funny. He takes the work seriously — but not himself. If that feels off-putting, that's useful information.

Am I looking for therapy or coaching?

Kirk offers both — but they're different things. If you're not sure which one fits, reach out and he'll help you figure it out.

Kirk's approach

A real human first.

Direct but not harsh

Kirk won't just nod and reflect. He'll engage honestly, push back when it's useful, and tell you what he's noticing — with warmth, not judgment.

Relational to the core

Rooted in Relational-Cultural Theory — the idea that healing happens in connection, not in isolation. The relationship between you and Kirk isn't just the backdrop. It's the work.

A particular love for creatives

Writers, artists, performers, deep thinkers — people trying to align who they are with how they live. Kirk gets it. He's one of them.

25+ years of real experience

From school-based counseling to psychiatric crisis care to private practice. He's worked in almost every corner of mental health. Very little surprises him.

Questions worth asking any therapist

Before you commit to anyone.

What is your theoretical orientation and how does it show up in sessions?
How do you handle it when a client disagrees with you?
What does progress look like in your work — and how will we know when it's happening?
This might not be the right fit if...

You're looking for a highly structured, manualized treatment approach. You're court-ordered or mandated by a third party. You're a current or former client seeking services for a family member or close friend. You need medication management — Kirk doesn't prescribe.

Getting here

In person & telehealth.

In Person — Mason, Ohio

8118 Corporate Way, Suite 175, Mason OH 45040. Enter the main center doors, go straight down the hallway, and turn right. You'll receive a door code before your appointment. Come in, have a seat — coffee and tea are available.

Telehealth

You'll receive a secure video link about 10 minutes before your session. Test your camera and microphone ahead of time. Ohio residents only — you must be located in Ohio at the time of service per state law.

Good to know

Before your first session.

Insurance

Self-pay preferred. Some insurance payors accepted. Superbills available for out-of-network reimbursement. FSA/HSA cards accepted. Reach out with questions about your specific situation.

Good Faith Estimate

Under the No Surprises Act, you have the right to receive a Good Faith Estimate before we begin. There will never be any billing surprises at Story and Soul LLC.

Current clients

Need to reschedule, access your portal, or send a message? Use the Patient Portal link in the navigation above.

Begin the journey.

Bring your story. Come as you are.

Kirk reviews every message personally. There's no obligation — just a conversation to see if this is the right fit.