Frequently Asked Questions

with Makahala Hepburn, LCSW

Let’s take the mystery out of therapy. Below are answers to the most common questions new and potential clients ask.

Where do you offer therapy?

I provide online therapy for clients across the entire state of Florida.

Do you offer video or phone sessions?

Yes. All sessions are conducted securely online via video, offering flexibility and comfort wherever you are in Florida.

How long is a typical session?

Individual sessions are 60 minutes.
Couples sessions are 90 minutes.

How do I get started?

You can book a free 15-minute consultation by calling, emailing, or filling out the contact form on my website. We’ll talk through your goals and see if we’re a good fit.

What are your rates?

Individuals: $200 per session
Couples: $275 per session

How do I pay?

I accept credit/debit cards, PayPal, Zelle, and HSA/FSA payments.

Do you accept insurance?

I am an out-of-network provider. I’ll provide a superbill you can submit to your insurance for possible reimbursement. Be sure to check your plan’s coverage for out-of-network mental health services.

Can you help me file my insurance?

While I can provide detailed documentation, you’ll be responsible for submitting it to your provider.

What’s your cancellation policy?

I require 24 hours’ notice to cancel or reschedule a session. Late cancellations may be charged the full session fee.

What It’s Like to Work Together

Who is your ideal client?

I work best with high-achieving adults and couples struggling with trauma, anxiety, emotional overwhelm, and relationship challenges.

What age range do you work with?

I primarily work with adults (18+).

Do you work with men? Women? Couples?

Yes, I work with men, women, non-binary individuals, and couples seeking emotional healing, trauma recovery, and relationship transformation.

Are you LGBTQIA+ friendly?

Absolutely. My practice is inclusive, affirming, and welcoming to people of all identities.

What can I expect in the first session?

The first session is a chance for us to connect. I’ll get to know you, learn more about what’s bringing you in, and we’ll collaborate on goals for your healing journey.

What is therapy like with you?

Clients describe me as warm, direct, and deeply present. I’m here to both support and challenge you, guiding you through real, lasting change—not just surface-level relief.

How long will I be in therapy?

It depends on your needs and goals. Some clients notice significant shifts in a few months, while others appreciate having long-term support.

What therapy approaches do you use?

My approach is trauma-informed, body-based, and rooted in emotional integration. I draw from:

Somatic Experiencing (SE): Gently helps release trauma stored in the body and calm the nervous system.
EMDR Therapy: Reprocesses traumatic memories so they no longer hijack your present.
Internal Family Systems (IFS): Heals the “parts” of you that feel stuck, overwhelmed, or in conflict.
Relational Life Therapy (RLT): Helps couples shift destructive dynamics and build real intimacy.
Compassionate Inquiry: Brings unconscious patterns into awareness with self-compassion and curiosity.

How do I know if you’re the right therapist for me?

The best way is to schedule a free consultation and see how it feels to talk with me. Your sense of safety and connection matters most.

About Me

How long have you been in practice?

I have over 20 years of experience supporting individuals and couples in healing trauma and creating meaningful change.

What are your strengths as a therapist?

I offer a safe, grounded presence while being direct and engaged. Clients often say they feel both seen and challenged—in the best way.

Have you been in therapy yourself?

Yes—and I deeply believe in the transformative power of therapy. It’s why I do this work.

What’s your educational background?

I hold a Master of Social Work (MSW) and am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). I’ve completed extensive post-graduate training in trauma, somatic healing, and couples therapy.

Do you prescribe medication?

No, but I can refer you to a trusted psychiatrist if you’re interested in exploring that option alongside therapy.

What’s the best way to contact you?

The fastest way is by email, but you can also call or fill out the contact form on my website.

A Little Bit of Lightness

Is your furniture comfortable?

That’s up to you—it’s your couch now! All sessions are online.

Do I have to lie on a couch?

Not at all. You can sit, stand, walk, or curl up in a blanket—whatever helps you feel most grounded.

Should I wear waterproof mascara?

Maybe. But know this—tears are welcome here.

Can I ask personal questions?

Yes, within reason. Therapy is a relationship, and I believe in authentic connection where appropriate.

What’s your favorite therapy metaphor?

Healing is like learning to swim: at first, you feel like you’re barely staying afloat, but with time and trust, you move with grace through what once felt overwhelming.

One Last Question… for You.

Are you ready to start your healing journey?

You don’t have to keep feeling this way. Therapy is an investment in your future self—the version of you that feels calm, connected, and fully alive.

Let’s talk. Schedule your free consultation today.

754-222-4482

What Clients Say About Working with Makahala

“I have nothing but good things to say about Makahala. I am in a great spot! I received the right blend of help through therapy. Thank you for making me feel alive again.”

— ST, 2021

“I would like to share my experience with Makahala. She is an excellent therapist. Her experience helped me pull through a lot of COVID and personal issues when I was at a very low point. I wasn’t even aware I was in survival mode until my first visit with her. That was when I began to feel again. I stopped feeling numb, and that realization changed everything.”

“Over time, I made progress in every area of my life, including my self-esteem. I can’t express enough how much her sessions meant to me—they were what I looked forward to each week. Her support truly changed the course of my life.”

— RN, 2021