Category: Family Therapy

Family therapy services in Utah help families improve communication, resolve conflicts, and build stronger connections through professional guidance. Family therapy is a specialized form of counseling that focuses on improving communication and resolving conflicts within families. It provides a safe and structured environment where family members can work together to understand each other’s perspectives, strengthen relationships, and create healthier dynamics. Family therapy can address a variety of challenges, including parenting issues, life transitions, and conflicts that impact the family unit. By fostering open communication and collaboration, family therapy helps families build stronger bonds and navigate life’s challenges as a team.

in-person therapy at our office in Pleasant Grove. Front desk.
By speechwithcourtney 0 Comments Family Therapy, Therapy & Counseling

Benefits of Using Insurance for Therapy

How to Make Mental Health Care More Affordable and Accessible

Introduction: The Hidden Value of Insurance-Supported Therapy

Therapy is one of the most powerful tools for mental wellness—but cost can be a barrier for many people. The good news? If you have health insurance, you may already have access to therapy through your plan.

Understanding the benefits of using insurance for therapy can help you take that first step with more confidence and less financial stress. At Willow Therapy Utah, we make it easy to use your coverage to get the care you deserve.

1. Therapy Becomes More Affordable

Therapy without insurance can cost anywhere from $100 to $200+ per session. But when you use insurance:

  • You typically pay a copay (often $20–$50)

  • Your plan may cover sessions after your deductible is met

  • Telehealth or preventive visits may be covered at no cost

This means you can attend therapy more consistently, which leads to better outcomes.

Explore accepted insurance plans

2. Insurance Often Covers Online Therapy

Virtual therapy is convenient and effective—and most plans now cover telehealth sessions the same way they cover in-person visits.

Benefits of online therapy include:

  • Attending from home, work, or school

  • Eliminating commute time

  • Easier scheduling for parents or busy professionals

  • More privacy and comfort

If you’re juggling work, kids, or a tight schedule, this option can make therapy possible.

3. You Can Use HSA or FSA Funds Toward Therapy

In addition to using your insurance, you may be able to use Health Savings Account (HSA) or Flexible Spending Account (FSA) funds to cover:

  • Therapy copays

  • Deductibles

  • Private-pay sessions not covered by insurance

This gives you even more flexibility to pay for care using pre-tax dollars.

4. Consistency = Better Progress

When therapy is more affordable, you’re more likely to stick with it. Clients who use insurance:

  • Attend more regularly

  • Feel less financial pressure

  • Are more likely to complete treatment plans

  • Make deeper, longer-lasting progress

Your insurance can help you invest in your long-term wellness—one session at a time.

Learn about our therapy services

5. You’re Still in Control

Using insurance doesn’t mean giving up privacy or freedom. You can:

  • Choose your therapist

  • Decide how often you attend

  • Stop or pause therapy whenever you choose

We’ll help you understand your coverage clearly so you can make empowered decisions.

For more on therapy and insurance basics, visit NAMI’s guide

Insurance Plans We Accept at Willow Therapy Utah

We are in-network with:

We’ll verify your benefits and help you understand what’s covered.

✅ Get Started with Therapy Using Your Insurance

Using your insurance can remove the biggest barrier to starting therapy: cost. We’re here to make the process easy and transparent—so you can focus on feeling better.

✅ Schedule a therapy session
✅ Meet our therapists
✅ Ask about your benefits

Child with autism playing in a therapy session with a speech-language pathologist, working on communication skills.
By speechwithcourtney 0 Comments Family Therapy

Supporting Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder Through Speech Therapy

How Speech-Language Pathologists Help Kids with ASD Communicate and Connect

Introduction: How Speech Therapy Supports Children with Autism

Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) often experience challenges in communication—but with the right support, they can grow in confidence and connection. One of the most effective interventions is speech therapy for autism, which helps children strengthen language skills, improve social communication, and build independence.

At Willow Therapy Utah, our speech-language pathologist (SLP) provides compassionate, evidence-based support for children with autism in Pleasant Grove and across Utah County.

Why Children with Autism Benefit from Speech Therapy

Every child with autism is unique. Some are nonverbal, while others speak fluently but struggle with conversational skills, gestures, or understanding social cues. Speech therapy meets your child where they are and helps them move forward at their own pace.

Common goals in speech therapy for autism include:

  • Developing expressive language (words, signs, or devices)

  • Understanding directions and vocabulary

  • Practicing turn-taking and back-and-forth conversation

  • Enhancing nonverbal communication (gestures, facial expressions)

  • Using visuals or AAC devices for alternative communication

  • Reducing frustration and behavioral outbursts linked to communication challenges

Explore our speech therapy services

What Does Speech Therapy Look Like for a Child with Autism?

Sessions are tailored to each child’s developmental level and learning style. Therapy may involve:

  • Play-based activities to promote natural communication

  • Visual supports like picture schedules or social stories

  • AAC devices (augmentative and alternative communication) when needed

  • Structured routines to build comfort and predictability

  • Family coaching to carry strategies into daily life

Learn about our AAC therapy services

Meet Our Speech-Language Pathologist

👩‍⚕️ Courtney Schneider, SLP

Courtney specializes in pediatric speech-language therapy, including support for children with autism. She creates a warm, structured environment that helps kids engage and thrive through personalized interventions and parent collaboration.

Whether your child is nonverbal, developing first words, or learning social skills, Courtney provides the tools and encouragement to help them grow.

Early Intervention Makes a Big Difference

The earlier a child with ASD begins speech therapy, the more likely they are to build meaningful communication skills. Early support helps children:

  • Form stronger bonds with family members

  • Reduce frustration from being misunderstood

  • Participate more fully in school and social settings

  • Gain self-esteem and autonomy

According to Autism Speaks, speech therapy is one of the most beneficial services for children with autism—especially when started early.

Speech Therapy for Autism Across the Spectrum

We support children who are:

  • Nonverbal and learning to use AAC

  • Minimally verbal and working on word combinations

  • Verbal but struggling with pragmatics (social communication)

  • Navigating speech sound errors or sensory processing challenges

Check out our language therapy page

Support for Parents and Caregivers

We understand that raising a child with autism can feel overwhelming at times. That’s why we provide family education and coaching as part of therapy—so you can feel confident reinforcing skills at home.

Our goal is to support the entire family, not just the child.

Contact us to learn how speech therapy fits into your child’s care plan

Serving Families Across Utah County

Our speech therapy services are available in Pleasant Grove and surrounding areas, including Orem, Vineyard, and Provo.

✅ Take the First Step Toward Communication Growth

If you’re exploring speech therapy for autism, we’re here to help. Whether your child is just beginning to communicate or working on complex social skills, Willow Therapy Utah offers personalized support you can trust.

✅ Schedule a speech therapy evaluation
✅ Meet Courtney, our SLP
✅ Explore pediatric speech services

Samuel Major, Ph.D., LMFT – Licensed Therapist in Utah specializing in addiction recovery and couples counseling
By speechwithcourtney 0 Comments Family Therapy

Welcoming Dr. Samuel Major, PhD, LMFT to Willow Therapy Utah

Experienced Therapist Supporting Adults, Couples, and Families Through Meaningful Change

We’re Thrilled to Introduce Dr. Samuel Major, PhD, LMFT

Please join us in welcoming Dr. Samuel Major, PhD, LMFT to the team at Willow Therapy Utah! With over 20 years of experience in clinical and academic settings, Dr. Major brings warmth, insight, and a deep commitment to helping people strengthen their relationships and reconnect with themselves.

Dr. Major is now accepting new clients for individual therapy, couples counseling, and family therapy, both in-person at our Pleasant Grove location and through secure telehealth sessions statewide.

About Dr. Major

Dr. Samuel Major is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with a PhD in Marriage and Family Therapy. His style is collaborative, client-centered, and emotionally attuned, with a special interest in helping clients explore how their stories shape the way they live, feel, and connect.

His clinical experience spans work with:

  • Adults seeking emotional clarity, identity support, or relational healing

  • Couples struggling with disconnection, conflict, or major life changes

  • Families navigating communication breakdowns, blended dynamics, or grief

  • Individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, or spiritual struggles

Meet Dr. Major on our team page

Therapy Services Dr. Major Offers

Dr. Major is available for the following services:

Dr. Major’s Therapy Approach

Dr. Major helps clients “explore, expand, and revise the stories they live by”—an approach grounded in narrative therapy. He also incorporates:

  • Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) to support emotional connection and repair

  • Systemic and relational frameworks to help individuals and families understand behavior in context

  • Deep listening and compassionate inquiry to help clients build awareness and meaning

His approach is particularly effective for clients working through identity transitions, faith challenges, personal stuckness, or the desire to live with greater authenticity and emotional connection.

Now Accepting New Clients

Dr. Major is now seeing clients in Pleasant Grove and throughout Utah via telehealth. His services are in-network with many major insurance plans including:

If you’re looking for an experienced, thoughtful therapist who blends clinical insight with deep compassion—Dr. Major may be the right fit for you.

✅ Ready to Work with Dr. Samuel Major?

Whether you’re seeking therapy for yourself, your relationship, or your family, Dr. Major creates a grounded and safe space for honest exploration and lasting change.

✅ Schedule your session with Dr. Major
✅ Read his full bio
✅ Learn about our therapy services
✅ Contact us to ask about insurance

View of Pleasant Grove, Utah with snow-capped mountains in the background, representing local therapy services in Utah County.
By speechwithcourtney 0 Comments Family Therapy

How to Maximize Your Therapy Sessions Under Insurance

Make the Most of Your Mental Health Benefits and Get the Care You Deserve

Introduction: You’re Covered—Now Let’s Make It Count

If you’re using health insurance to pay for therapy, you’ve already made a smart move. But what many people don’t realize is that there are simple ways to maximize your therapy sessions under insurance—so you get the best care, value, and progress possible.

We’re in-network with most major insurance providers, and we’re here to help you use your coverage wisely and confidently.

1. Verify Your Mental Health Benefits in Advance

Before starting therapy, take time to understand exactly what your insurance plan offers. This helps you avoid surprise bills and lets you plan sessions more strategically.

Key things to ask your insurance provider:

  • Is Willow Therapy Utah in-network?

  • What’s my copay or coinsurance per session?

  • Is there a deductible I must meet first?

  • Is there a limit on the number of sessions per year?

  • Do I need preauthorization or a referral?

Contact us and we’ll help you confirm this info—we do it all the time!

2. Schedule Consistently (But Strategically)

Most people benefit from weekly therapy sessions, especially when starting out. This builds momentum and allows for deeper work. However, depending on your coverage, it may make sense to space out sessions later in treatment.

If your insurance caps sessions at a certain number per year, your therapist can help you prioritize goals and plan your timeline to get the most out of each visit.

Explore therapy for anxiety, depression, trauma, and more

3. Prepare Between Sessions

Therapy doesn’t end when you leave the session. To get the most from your coverage and care:

  • Reflect on key takeaways after each session

  • Complete homework or journaling prompts if given

  • Notice patterns or triggers to bring up next time

  • Keep a therapy journal to track insights or questions

These habits increase your emotional progress—and can help reduce the number of sessions you may need long term.

4. Use Online Therapy When It Saves Time or Cost

Most insurance plans cover telehealth therapy at the same rate as in-person sessions. If commuting or scheduling is a barrier, virtual sessions can help you stay consistent—and save money on gas, childcare, or PTO.

Online therapy is especially helpful for:

  • Busy parents

  • College students

  • Rural clients

  • Those managing physical health conditions

5. Ask for a Superbill if You’re Out-of-Network

If you want to work with a therapist who’s out-of-network but still use your insurance, ask for a superbill. This is a detailed receipt you can submit to your insurance for potential reimbursement.

Many clients find that insurance will partially reimburse them—even if the provider isn’t in-network.

Learn more about using superbills from GoodRx

6. Know That It’s Okay to Ask Questions

Don’t be afraid to talk to your therapist or front desk team about your benefits. At Willow Therapy Utah, we believe transparency and collaboration matter.

We’ll help you:

  • Understand what’s covered

  • Submit any paperwork

  • Adjust your treatment plan as needed

  • Set realistic goals based on frequency and cost

Explore the insurances we accept

✅ Insurance Plans Accepted at Willow Therapy Utah

We are in-network with many major insurance providers, including:

✅ Ready to Start Therapy Using Your Insurance?

We’ll help you take the guesswork out of mental health coverage—so you can focus on feeling better.

✅ Schedule your first session
✅ Meet our therapists
✅ Get help verifying your benefits

Woman attending an online therapy session from home, smiling and looking at her laptop.
By speechwithcourtney 0 Comments Family Therapy

How Online Therapy Works: A Step-by-Step Guide

Everything You Need to Know to Get Started with Virtual Counseling

Introduction: Curious About How Online Therapy Works?

You’ve probably heard about virtual counseling—but if you’re wondering how online therapy works, you’re not alone. Many first-time clients want support but aren’t sure what to expect from a telehealth session.

At Willow Therapy Counseling, we offer secure, HIPAA-compliant online therapy across Utah. Whether you’re navigating anxiety, burnout, postpartum emotions, or relationship stress, online therapy is a flexible, effective way to get care—without leaving home.

Step 1: Schedule Your Appointment

Start by visiting our scheduling page and choosing the therapist or service that fits your needs. You’ll be able to:

  • Choose between individual, couples, or teen therapy

  • Select your preferred time and format (virtual or in-person)

  • Provide your contact and insurance information

  • Confirm your appointment with a few clicks

Need help verifying insurance? Contact us and we’ll walk you through it.

Step 2: Complete Your Intake Forms

Once scheduled, you’ll receive a secure email link to your digital intake paperwork. These forms include:

  • Health and history questions

  • Consent and privacy agreements

  • Insurance and payment information

Completing them ahead of time ensures your first session is focused on you, not paperwork.

Step 3: Log In to Your Secure Video Session

You’ll receive a private video link (via email or text) before your appointment. All sessions are hosted on HIPAA-compliant platforms to protect your privacy.

What you’ll need:

  • A quiet, private space

  • A laptop, phone, or tablet with a camera and mic

  • A stable internet connection

  • Headphones (optional for more privacy)

Running late or having tech trouble? Just message your therapist—we’re flexible and understanding.

Step 4: Attend Your First Online Therapy Session

This is your time to share what’s on your mind. Your therapist will:

  • Ask questions about your goals and current challenges

  • Help you feel comfortable and understood

  • Offer a safe, supportive space to talk openly

  • Begin building a plan for your mental health journey

Online sessions typically last 45–55 minutes and feel just as personal and effective as in-person therapy.

Meet our therapist team

Step 5: Build Consistency and Make Progress

Therapy works best with consistency. Most clients begin with weekly sessions, though some choose biweekly or monthly check-ins over time. Your therapist will help guide the pace based on your needs.

We offer:

Benefits of Online Therapy

Clients choose online therapy because it’s:

✅ Flexible – Fits into your life without commuting
✅ Private – Attend from your home or office
✅ Consistent – Stay in therapy even during travel, illness, or bad weather
✅ Just as effective – Studies show online therapy is equally effective for many issues

According to APA Telepsychology Guidelines, online therapy can be just as successful as in-person care when delivered ethically and intentionally.

✅ Ready to Get Started with Online Therapy?

You don’t have to figure it out alone—and you don’t have to leave home to start healing. If you’ve been wondering how online therapy works, we hope this guide helps you feel informed and empowered to begin.

✅ Schedule your virtual session
✅ Explore all therapy services
✅ Reach out with any questions

Finding peace with therapy
By speechwithcourtney 0 Comments Family Therapy

Addressing Postpartum Anxiety and Depression Through Counseling

You’re Not Alone—And You Deserve Support That Helps You Feel Like You Again

Introduction: The Quiet Struggle So Many Mothers Face

Bringing a new baby into the world can be beautiful—but it’s also one of the most emotionally demanding transitions a person can go through. While many expect joy, the reality is often more complex. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, constantly on edge, or disconnected from your baby or yourself, you may be experiencing postpartum anxiety and depression—and you’re far from alone.

At Willow Therapy Utah, we help mothers navigate postpartum mental health with compassion, clarity, and tools that truly help. Whether your baby is 2 weeks or 2 years old, therapy can help you reclaim your emotional balance and confidence.

What Is Postpartum Anxiety and Depression?

Postpartum depression (PPD) and postpartum anxiety (PPA) are common mood disorders that can occur anytime during the first year after childbirth—and sometimes even before. They can affect any birthing parent, regardless of how “prepared” or supported you feel.

Postpartum depression often includes:

  • Sadness, hopelessness, or numbness

  • Difficulty bonding with your baby

  • Crying spells, irritability, or low energy

  • Thoughts of guilt, shame, or inadequacy

Postpartum anxiety may show up as:

  • Constant worry about your baby’s safety

  • Racing thoughts or insomnia

  • Panic attacks or difficulty breathing

  • Feeling like you “can’t relax” or ever turn your brain off

According to Postpartum Support International (PSI), 1 in 5 women and 1 in 10 partners experience postpartum mental health conditions.

Why Therapy Helps: A Safe Place to Say the Hard Things

One of the most powerful tools for healing postpartum anxiety and depression is therapy. You don’t need a diagnosis to start. If something feels off, counseling can offer:

  • A space to express emotions without fear of judgment

  • Practical coping strategies to manage overwhelm

  • Validation that your feelings make sense—even when they surprise you

  • Support for your identity, partnership, and self-worth beyond parenthood

Learn more about our postpartum therapy services

How Postpartum Counseling Works

At Willow Therapy Utah, your therapist will tailor sessions to your life and needs. Sessions may include:

  • Identifying emotional triggers and thought patterns

  • Regulating the nervous system through mindfulness or grounding

  • Rebuilding confidence and trust in yourself

  • Support with sleep, identity loss, or relationship stress

  • Coordination with your doctor or OB when needed

Explore mindfulness-based therapy

Therapists Who Specialize in Postpartum Support

👩‍⚕️ Mariah Frias, LCSW

Mariah works with women experiencing postpartum depression, identity shifts, and emotional overwhelm. Her approach is warm, validating, and deeply supportive.

👩‍⚕️ Ashlee Allan, CSW

Ashlee offers therapy for moms navigating anxiety, burnout, and the mental load of motherhood. She helps clients reconnect to themselves with compassion and clarity.

Meet our full team

Online Therapy for Exhausted Moms

We understand how hard it can be to leave the house with a newborn—or even find time for yourself. That’s why we offer telehealth therapy so you can get the support you need without leaving home.

Sessions can happen during nap time, after bedtime, or even with baby in your arms. No makeup, no judgment—just real support.

It’s Okay to Ask for Help

Many moms wait until they’re at a breaking point to reach out. But you don’t have to wait. Therapy isn’t about “fixing” you—it’s about helping you feel like yourself again.

You’re not failing. You’re adjusting to an enormous transition. And it’s okay to need help doing that.

Read more about why it’s okay to ask for help

✅ Ready to Start?

Whether your symptoms are mild or intense, short-term or long-lasting, you deserve to feel supported and seen. Therapy for postpartum anxiety and depression can help you breathe again—and feel more like you.

✅ Schedule your first session
✅ Meet our therapists
✅ Explore services for motherhood and mental health

Mother gently holding her newborn’s feet, symbolizing the connection between motherhood and emotional support.
By speechwithcourtney 1 Comments Family Therapy

Therapy and Motherhood: Balancing Mental Health and Family Life

Because Taking Care of Yourself Is Taking Care of Your Family

Introduction: Why Therapy and Motherhood Go Hand in Hand

Motherhood is beautiful—and exhausting. It’s filled with laughter, milestones, meltdowns, and moments that pull you in every direction. While it can be deeply fulfilling, motherhood can also be incredibly isolating, emotionally overwhelming, and mentally draining.

That’s why therapy and motherhood aren’t opposites—they’re partners. At Willow Therapy Utah, we support moms at every stage of the journey, helping them feel seen, supported, and mentally stronger.

Why Moms Seek Therapy (and Why It’s Okay)

Even if everything looks fine on the outside, many moms struggle silently. Therapy gives you space to process the messy, beautiful, confusing emotions that come with parenting.

Common reasons moms come to therapy include:

  • Anxiety and overstimulation

  • Postpartum depression or rage

  • Burnout and emotional exhaustion

  • Identity loss or role confusion

  • Relationship stress

  • Guilt, shame, or feeling “not enough”

According to Postpartum Support International (PSI), 1 in 7 women experience postpartum depression, and many others face anxiety, anger, or sadness that goes unspoken.

You Deserve Support—Not Just Your Kids

So much energy goes into caring for your children, your home, your job, and your partner that it’s easy to forget your own needs. But mental health isn’t selfish—it’s essential.

Therapy helps you:

  • Regulate emotions and reduce stress

  • Understand and challenge intrusive thoughts

  • Navigate mom guilt and perfectionism

  • Set boundaries without shame

  • Reconnect with your identity outside of motherhood

Learn about therapy for postpartum and parenting support

What Therapy for Moms Looks Like

Therapy is a space just for you—a place where you don’t have to “have it together.” A place where you can say “I love my kids, but I’m not okay” and be met with compassion, not judgment.

Our sessions may include:

  • Talk therapy or CBT to challenge unhelpful beliefs

  • Mindfulness tools to manage stress and overwhelm

  • Space to grieve old versions of yourself

  • Parenting strategies based on emotional regulation—not control

Explore mindfulness-based therapy

Support for Moms at Any Stage

We work with:

  • Expecting mothers preparing for transition

  • New moms adjusting to postpartum life

  • Stay-at-home moms navigating identity shifts

  • Working moms balancing career and family

  • Moms of teens struggling with communication or boundaries

Whatever season of motherhood you’re in, therapy can help you move through it with more clarity and calm.

Explore our individual therapy services

Therapists Who Specialize in Motherhood and Mental Health

👩‍⚕️ Mariah Frias, LCSW

Mariah specializes in supporting moms through identity shifts, postpartum struggles, and faith-based transitions.

👩‍⚕️ Ashlee Allan, CSW

Ashlee works with women navigating anxiety, emotional regulation, and the mental load of motherhood.

Meet our full team

Online Therapy for Busy Moms

We know childcare, schedules, and exhaustion can make it hard to attend in person. That’s why we offer telehealth sessions—so you can get support during nap time, between school drop-offs, or after the kids go to bed.

✅ Take the First Step—For Yourself and Your Family

When you prioritize your mental health, your entire household benefits. Therapy can help you show up more grounded, connected, and present for the people you love—and for yourself.

✅ Schedule a therapy session
✅ Read about our therapists
✅ Explore our therapy services
✅ Contact us with questions

EMI Health Insurance accepted for therapy and couseling services. Our LCSW's and Counselors do a great job of offering support.
By speechwithcourtney 0 Comments Family Therapy, Therapy & Counseling

EMI Therapy Utah: Use Your EMI Health Insurance for Mental Health Services

Willow Therapy Utah Is Proud to Be an In-Network EMI ProviderEMI Health Insurance accepted for therapy and couseling services. Our LCSW's and Counselors do a great job of offering support.

Introduction: EMI Therapy Utah—Mental Health Support That’s Covered

If you’re insured through EMI Health, and you’re looking for therapy in Utah, we have good news: Willow Therapy Utah is in-network with EMI, making it easier and more affordable for you to access care.

Whether you’re managing anxiety, depression, life transitions, or parenting stress, we’re here to help—with both in-person and online therapy sessions available through your EMI Health insurance plan.

What Is EMI Health?

EMI Health is a Utah-based insurance provider offering health benefits for individuals, families, and employer groups—including coverage for mental health and therapy services.

For plan details, visit the EMI Health Member Portal

Most EMI plans include benefits for:

  • Outpatient mental health counseling

  • Telehealth therapy

  • In-network therapists like those at Willow Therapy Utah

How to Use EMI for Therapy at Willow Therapy Utah

Getting started is simple! Here’s how to use your EMI therapy benefits:

  1. Call the number on your EMI insurance card

  2. Ask: “What are my behavioral health or therapy benefits?”

  3. Confirm that Willow Therapy Utah is an in-network provider

  4. Contact our team and we’ll help verify your coverage

  5. Schedule your first session online or at our Pleasant Grove office

Explore our insurance options

Therapy Services Covered by EMI Health

Our therapy services that may be covered by EMI include:

These services can support individuals facing anxiety, burnout, trauma, grief, or relational challenges.

Therapists Who Accept EMI Insurance

You’ll be matched with a therapist who fits your needs, personality, and schedule. Our EMI Health-approved therapists include:

👩‍⚕️ Mariah Frias, LCSW

Mariah specializes in adult mental health, parenting stress, and faith-related transitions.

👩‍⚕️ Jeanna Cunningham, CMHC

Jeanna offers trauma-informed care, couples therapy, and support for anxiety and relationship concerns.

👩‍⚕️ Ashlee Allan, CSW

Ashlee works with teens, young adults, and individuals navigating identity development and emotional overwhelm.

Common Reasons Clients Use EMI Therapy Coverage

Our EMI clients often seek help for:

Whatever you’re facing, our team is here to walk with you.

We Serve Clients Across Utah County

Willow Therapy Utah is located in Pleasant Grove, and we also serve clients from Orem, Vineyard, and surrounding areas.

Too busy to come in? Telehealth sessions are available anywhere in Utah.

✅ Take the First Step Toward Support

Using your EMI insurance for therapy should be simple—and at Willow Therapy Utah, it is. We’re here to help you take care of your mental health with ease, transparency, and heart.

✅ Book a session today
✅ Meet our therapists
✅ Check your insurance benefits
✅ Explore therapy options

Stacked wooden cubes showing different emotional faces, symbolizing a range of feelings often explored in therapy.
By speechwithcourtney 2 Comments Family Therapy

Understanding Therapy: How Counseling Works and What to Expect

Introduction: Therapy Isn’t a Mystery—It’s a Path Toward Healing

Thinking about starting therapy but unsure what to expect? You’re not alone. Many people feel nervous or uncertain before their first counseling session. That’s why it’s helpful to understand how counseling works—what it looks like, what it feels like, and how it can change your life.

At Willow Therapy in Utah, we believe therapy should feel welcoming, empowering, and tailored to your needs. Whether you’re starting individual therapy, couples counseling, or teen therapy, here’s a clear guide to what you can expect.

What Is Therapy, Exactly?

At its core, therapy (also called counseling) is a safe, confidential space where you can:

  • Talk openly about thoughts, feelings, and challenges

  • Gain new skills to manage stress, anxiety, or depression

  • Work toward personal growth and emotional resilience

  • Heal from past trauma or life transitions

  • Strengthen relationships and communication

The American Psychological Association defines therapy as a collaborative treatment based on the relationship between an individual and a therapist.

How Counseling Works at Willow Therapy Utah

Our process is simple, compassionate, and flexible. Here’s how it typically unfolds:

1. Intake and Goal-Setting

During your first session, you and your therapist will:

  • Review intake forms and your reasons for seeking therapy

  • Set goals for what you’d like to work on

  • Begin building a trusting, collaborative relationship

There’s no pressure to “have it all figured out.” Therapy is a journey—and it starts wherever you are.

Learn more about individual therapy

2. Regular Sessions (Usually Weekly)

Most clients start with weekly therapy sessions to build momentum and create lasting change. Sessions are typically 45–55 minutes long and may involve:

  • Talking about current struggles or victories

  • Exploring emotions, patterns, and underlying beliefs

  • Learning coping strategies, mindfulness, or communication skills

  • Homework or reflection exercises between sessions

Over time, sessions may shift to biweekly or monthly as goals are achieved.

Explore therapy for anxiety, depression, and life transitions

3. Personalized, Evidence-Based Techniques

Depending on your needs, your therapist might incorporate approaches such as:

You’ll always be involved in deciding what techniques feel right for you.

What Therapy Is (and Isn’t)

Therapy is:

  • A nonjudgmental space to grow and heal

  • A process guided by your goals and pace

  • A place for skill-building and emotional support

Therapy is not:

  • Someone giving advice or telling you what to do

  • A quick fix with overnight results

  • A one-size-fits-all experience

In-Person and Online Options

At Willow Therapy Utah, we offer both:

Virtual sessions are especially popular with college students, busy parents, and rural clients who want flexible support.

Common Questions About How Counseling Works

Is therapy confidential?
Yes! Everything you share stays private, with very few exceptions (like safety concerns).

How long will I need therapy?
It depends. Some clients meet goals in a few months; others continue longer for deeper work or maintenance.

Will my therapist tell me what to do?
Not exactly. A good therapist helps you discover your own answers—not dictate decisions.

✅ Therapy Services Available at Willow Therapy Utah

We offer therapy for a wide range of needs, including:

We also accept major insurance plans like PEHP, SelectHealth, and UnitedHealthcare.

✅ Take the First Step Toward Growth

Understanding how counseling works can make that first step feel a little less intimidating. Therapy is for everyone—from those in crisis to those simply wanting to grow, heal, and thrive.

You deserve a space to be heard, supported, and empowered. We’re ready to walk beside you.

✅ Schedule a session
✅ Meet our therapists
✅ Explore therapy services

Ashlee Allan, CSW, a therapist at Willow Therapy.
By speechwithcourtney 0 Comments Family Therapy, Therapy & Counseling

Welcoming Ashlee Allan, CSW to Willow Therapy

Meet Our New Therapist Specializing in Teen and Adult Mental Health

We’re Growing—And We’re Excited to Introduce You to Ashlee!

We’re thrilled to announce that Ashlee Allan, CSW has joined the team at Willow Therapy in Utah! With her compassionate approach, clinical training, and dedication to supporting teens and young adults, Ashlee brings a fresh, grounded energy to our practice.

Ashlee is now accepting new clients, and we couldn’t be more excited to welcome her into the Willow family!

About Ashlee Allan, CSW

Ashlee is a Certified Social Worker who focuses on helping clients navigate life transitions, anxiety, identity development, and emotional regulation. She has a warm and empowering presence that helps clients feel heard, supported, and capable of growth.

She is especially passionate about working with:

  • Teenagers facing school stress, identity questions, or relationship challenges

  • Young adults navigating early adulthood, life direction, or faith transitions

  • Individuals managing anxiety, self-doubt, or emotional overwhelm

Read Ashlee’s full bio here

What Makes Ashlee’s Approach Unique

Ashlee brings a calm, nonjudgmental energy to therapy. Her clients describe her as empathetic, genuine, and empowering. She believes in helping people reconnect with their inner strengths and values while building practical coping skills.

Ashlee incorporates therapeutic modalities such as:

Whether you’re looking for a therapist for your teen or support for yourself as a young adult, Ashlee offers a safe space to explore emotions and build confidence.

Ashlee Is Now Accepting New Clients – Verified by Psychology Today. 

Ashlee is currently available for:

She is in-network with many insurance providers, including SelectHealth, Blue Cross Blue Shield, PEHP, UnitedHealthcare, and more. Visit our insurance page to learn more.

Ready to Work with Ashlee?

If you or someone you love is ready to take the next step in their mental health journey, Ashlee is here to help.

✅ Schedule an appointment with Ashlee
✅ Get to know Ashlee
✅ Contact us with questions