FAQs

General Questions
How long does therapy take?
The duration of therapy varies based on your unique needs, goals, and the complexity of the issues being addressed. We tailor treatment plans individually. Many clients see progress within a few months.
What can I expect in my first therapy session?
Your first session is an opportunity for us to get to know each other. We'll discuss your reasons for seeking therapy, your history, your goals, and you can ask any questions you have about the process. It's also a chance to see if we're a good fit.
Is what I share in therapy confidential?
Yes, therapy is confidential. However, there are legal and ethical exceptions, such as risk of harm to yourself or others, child or elder abuse, or a court order. These will be discussed in detail in your intake paperwork.
Do I need a referral to see an LMFT?
No, you do not typically need a referral to see an LMFT. You can contact us directly to schedule an appointment.
Is an LMFT a doctor?
No. LMFTs hold a graduate degree (Master's or Doctorate) in therapy, not a medical degree, and do not prescribe medication.
Can an LMFT diagnose mental health disorders?
Yes. LMFT training includes diagnosing mental health conditions using resources like the DSM-5-TR, and providing appropriate treatment.
Do LMFTs only see couples and families?
No. While specializing in relationships, LMFTs work with individuals, couples, and families—any context where relationships impact well-being.
What is the difference between an MFT, a psychologist, and a counselor?
MFTs (Marriage and Family Therapists) focus on relationship systems. Psychologists often conduct psychological testing and research. Counselors may offer broader general mental health support. Each has distinct training and specializations.
Appointments & Scheduling
How do I schedule my first appointment?
You can schedule your first appointment by calling us at (913 393-9393) or by using our Client Portal to select your initial consulation's date and time.
When requesting an appointment from our portal, please select the Free 15 Minute Session option.
You can also use this portal to manage all future appointments going forward.
What is your cancellation policy?
We require 24 hours notice for cancellations to avoid a full session cancellation fee. More details can be found in our Practice & Policies section.
How long are sessions and how frequent are they?
Standard sessions are 50 minutes. Most clients begin with weekly sessions, but frequency can be adjusted based on your needs and progress, in discussion with your therapist.
For family therapy, your reserved weekly time can be utilized by different family members or combinations of members.
Fees, Payment & Insurance
What are your fees?
Our standard fee is $150 for a 50-minute session. This rate applies to individual, couple, and family therapy sessions.
Do you accept insurance?
We do not bill insurance companies directly (we are an "out-of-network" provider). However, we can provide you with a superbill (a detailed receipt) to submit to your insurance for potential out-of-network reimbursement.
What payment methods do you accept?
We accept credit or debit cards. If using a card not in your name, a consent agreement from the cardholder is required.
Do you accept HSA/FSA cards?
Yes, we accept Health Savings Account (HSA) and Flexible Spending Account (FSA) cards if they function as a credit card (e.g., have a Visa/Mastercard logo).
About Our Services & Practice
What are your office hours?
Our typical office hours are Monday-Thursday, 12pm - 8pm. Specific session availability may vary. Please contact us for current openings.
Is parking available at your office?
Yes, ample free parking is available as well as easy access to our office suite.
Do you work with children?
Yes, we work with children aged 6 and older, as well as adolescents and their families, to provide effective therapeutic support.
Are all sessions in-office, or do you offer telehealth?
We offer both in-office sessions at our Kansas City, Overland Park and telehealth (online) sessions.
Are you licensed to provide therapy to residents outside of Kansas?
Kirsten Tretbar, LMFT, is licensed to practice psychotherapy exclusively in the State of Kansas. This means:
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For telehealth (online) sessions, clients must be physically located in Kansas at the time of the session due to state licensing laws. We are unable to provide telehealth to individuals located outside of Kansas.
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For in-office sessions, you are welcome to travel to our Kansas office for appointments regardless of where you reside. The service is rendered in Kansas, where Kirsten is licensed.
For more details, please see Understanding Therapy Licensure & Geographic Location.
What is the Client Portal?
Our Client Portal, powered by SimplePractice, is a secure online platform where you can schedule appointments, manage paperwork, make payments, attend telehealth sessions, and send secure messages to your therapist.
Learn more in our Client Portal & Technology section.
Do you collaborate with other professionals involved in a client's care?
Yes, with your explicit written consent, we are happy to collaborate with other professionals to ensure coordinated and comprehensive care. This can include:
- School counselors, teachers, and other educational institution staff (to support a child's well-being and academic success).
- Psychiatrists (for medication management).
- Family doctors or primary care physicians.
- Other medical specialists or therapists.
Effective collaboration can be very beneficial, and we will always discuss the purpose and extent of any such communication with you beforehand.