Request a free 15-minute consultation

In the secure portal, choose Initial consultation · 15 minutes. No commitment to ongoing therapy. Your request needs confirmation.

What the consultation is for

You can share what prompted you to reach out, ask about Sarah’s approach, and discuss availability. This introductory conversation is not a full assessment or a therapy session, and requesting it does not commit you to ongoing care.

15 minutesFree introductory consultation
In person & virtualMaryland and Virginia
Teens & adultsAge and treatment fit discussed first

From your first request to your first session

  1. Request a consultation

    Open the secure appointment portal and choose “Initial consultation” (15 minutes). This introductory conversation is free. Look for confirmation before making plans.

  2. Discuss what you need

    Bring your questions about therapy, availability, caregiver involvement, or previous treatment. Share where you will be located for sessions.

  3. Confirm the practical details

    Discuss fees, insurance benefits, consent, paperwork, and appointment arrangements. Ask how telehealth works and how to contact the practice between sessions.

  4. Build a plan together

    If you begin therapy, early sessions explore your concerns and goals. Discuss the approaches that may fit and whether care with other professionals is needed.

A few things to have in mind

  • Your main questions and what you would like help with.
  • Your state and usual appointment availability.
  • Your insurance plan, if you intend to use insurance.
  • Whether you are seeking care for yourself or a teenager.
  • Any existing care team or upcoming transition from another program.

You do not need a polished explanation of your experience. Share only what is needed to begin the conversation.

Which appointment should I choose?

New to Rumi Counseling? Start with Initial consultation · 15 minutes. The portal also lists psychotherapy and a “Psychiatric Diagnostic Evaluation.” That evaluation is an initial mental health assessment; the label alone does not mean a medication appointment. Ask Sarah which appointment is appropriate before requesting either of these services.

Understanding the care offered here

Rumi Counseling provides outpatient psychotherapy with Sarah M. Amini, by appointment only, in person in Alexandria and Bethesda or through telehealth. Session frequency and treatment fit are discussed individually. Medical monitoring, nutrition services, and more intensive treatment may need to be arranged with other providers.

If you are leaving a residential, day, or intensive outpatient program, discuss the transition with your current team and ask Sarah about suitability and availability before relying on this practice for follow-up care.

Read about eating disorder therapy, treatment approaches, and fees and insurance.

Prepare for a telehealth appointment

Choose a private space with a reliable internet connection. Confirm the appointment time, connection instructions, and what to do if a connection fails. Tell Sarah if you expect to be outside Maryland or Virginia during a session.

For scheduling questions, use the contact buttons below. The appointment portal is not an emergency service.