HELLO
My passion is guiding couples to intentionally prepare for marriage.
About Abby
Education + License
Approach
I am a wife, a mom, and moved to Minnesota to be closer to family. I grew up in Minnesota, but have also lived in Pennsylvania, Texas, and Nebraska. When I am not working, I am mostly going for walks in nearby parks, drinking lattes, playing board games, listening to music, and cuddling with either my husband, baby, or cat.
Texas Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) # 203358 Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy from La Salle University in Philadelphia, PA (2018) Trainings Completed Level 1 and Level 2 of Gottman Method Couples Therapy Completed Foundations of Relational Life Therapy Certifications Gottman Seven Principles Leader Certified PREPARE/ENRICH Facilitator # 1309399 Certified SYMBIS Assessment Facilitator 15 hours of Tele-mental Health Training Professional Associations American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy (AAMFT) # 169289 Houston Association for Marriage and Family Therapy (HAMFT) # 4834209
When I meet with you, I am intentionally listening for the love that brought you together, relationship strengths, cycles that might get you stuck, underlying needs and fears, and how to empower your choice and control over the patterns. As a therapist, I see my role as identifying what to expect in the process, holding the space to show up as your whole self, celebrating your individual and relational strengths, observing and providing feedback on patterns and cycles in your relationship, navigating through current or future conflict using researched skills and interventions, and providing skills and resources for you to take into your life outside of the room. If you want to talk in specific therapy terms, I take an individualized approach with a mix of Relational Life Therapy, Gottman Method Couples Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy, Internal Family Systems, and body based approaches in my work with clients.
Focus
Commitment
I have developed a passion for working with couples who are dedicated to having a strong relationship - who want to explore their patterns, make intentional actions, and cherish their relationships.
I will consistently hold in mind what you want and what you are working towards. I will highlight your strengths and support you to gain skills to increase what is possible for your relationship.
Abby Van Egdom, MA, LMFT
TX Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist
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How do I know if you are the right fit for me/us?It is strange to be searching online for a therapist! Pre-marital counseling is an investment and so is your relationship. I typically work with clients who are longing for deep and satisfying relationships - with their partner and themselves. The clients I am the best therapist for are the ones that are wanting more for their relationships and willing to take a step back to observe their own patterns. I am most passionate about supporting couples who are navigating transitions - specifically into marriage. You can learn more about me here or read a few of my blogs. I also offer free 15 minute video consultations to answer any questions you might have about the process, my style, or to see what virtual sessions are like. You can schedule the consultation here. If at any point you or I think that another therapist may be a better fit for you due to expertise, training, or just general fit, I will check in with you and provide referrals.
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How long is pre-marital counseling?The pre-marital counseling program is a 6 hour, one day package! Inquire for more scheduling options if needed. Some pre-marital couples want to extend the package with extra sessions or schedule a follow up session after their wedding or next anniversary to tune up their relationship!
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What is online therapy over video chat (tele-therapy)?Tele-therapy is having sessions virtually via video chat. I only meet with clients via tele-therapy, using a secure system (Simple Practice), and can meet with any residents of Texas (Houston, Austin, San Antonio, Dallas, etc). It has been proven to be just as effective as in-person sessions and can have many convenient benefits as well! Trust me, you will get my personality and be just as engaged in the session than in my office! Enjoy the convenience of tele-therapy - Do not live in the Houston area or traveling around Texas - Avoiding the Houston traffic or traveling from a far distance - Scheduling your session during your lunch break - Difficulty finding a sitter - Feeling under the weather/medical reasons All you need - Computer/tablet with video camera & microphone - Internet access - Confidential/quiet space (not while driving) - Secure video link sent via email through HIPPA-compliant system (Simple Practice) Try it out with a free 15 minute video consultation to see if it would be a good fit for you!
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How much does pre-marital counseling cost?Pre-Marital Package Plan Beyond the Wedding package (6 hours) = $750 Additional Pre-Marital Sessions to Package Each 50 minute session = $125 Each 80 minute session = $175 Anniversary/Check in Sessions 50 minute session = $150 80 minute session = $225 Your card will be charged through the secure client portal at the end of each session. I do not accept insurance (more information on other FAQ).
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What is your typical availability?My weekly availability include evening and weekend options - Wednesday/Friday evenings and Saturdays. As a client, you will always have access to scheduling online through the client portal.
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Do you accept insurance?No, I do not accept insurance. Your card will be charged in full at the end of each session. I can provide a receipt of services (superbill) as a out of network provider for you to submit to your insurance company. The superbill requires your information and a mental health diagnosis. I recommend reaching out to your insurance provider to understand your coverage. Some questions to ask your insurance carrier: - Do I have mental health benefits? - How much will be reimbursed for an out-of-network provider? - What type of therapy does it cover? (individual, couples, specific theory, etc) - What is my deductible? - How many sessions per calendar year does my plan cover? - Does it cover tele-therapy sessions?