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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Does therapy work?

Yes! Numerous studies have shown that both couples and individual therapy are effective treatments for a wide range of issues. Recent research suggests that the average person who receives marital therapy is significantly better off than 84% of those who do not seek treatment. By working with us, you’ll be with a therapist who prioritizes evidence-based approaches, ensuring you get the best return on your investment.

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How much does therapy cost?

Ryan's fee for individual and couples therapy is $210 per 50-minute session. Natalie's fee for individual therapy is $165 per 50-minute session. We are in-network with Blue Cross Blue Shield and Aetna. We also accept LYRA EAP. Many insurance companies provide out-of-network benefits, and we are happy to provide documentation to help you seek reimbursement. Executive coaching rates are discussed during an initial consultation. We are unable to see patients who have Medicare as their primary insurance, even with BCBS or Aetna as secondary. We are not in-network with BlueValue or BlueLocal plans.

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Do you accept insurance?

We are in-network with Blue Cross Blue Shield and Aetna for both Ryan and Natalie. We also accept LYRA EAP, which pays for sessions at no cost to employees of participating companies. For all other insurance, we can provide a superbill for you to submit for out-of-network reimbursement. We recommend calling your insurance company to ask about your outpatient behavioral health benefits before your first session.

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What is Gottman Method Couples Therapy?

The Gottman Method is the most extensively researched approach to couples therapy available today, built on over 40 years of research with thousands of couples. It uses validated assessments and structured interventions to help couples improve communication, manage conflict, rebuild trust, and strengthen connection. Ryan Wishart is a Level 3 Gottman-trained therapist — the most advanced level of clinical training offered by the Gottman Institute.

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What should I expect in the first session?

For individual therapy, the first session is a chance to share what brought you to therapy, discuss your goals, and get a sense of whether we're a good fit. For couples therapy, we begin with a joint session followed by individual sessions with each partner, plus validated questionnaires. This assessment process gives us a thorough picture of your relationship before we build a treatment plan.

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How long does therapy take?

It depends on what you're working on. Some clients come for a specific issue and finish in 8 to 12 sessions. Others find ongoing therapy valuable for sustained growth. We don't believe in keeping you in therapy longer than you need to be. We set goals together and check in on progress regularly.

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What's the difference between therapy and executive coaching?

Therapy focuses on emotional health, relationship patterns, past experiences, and mental health symptoms. Coaching is more structured and forward-facing — focused on professional goals, leadership skills, career strategy, and performance. The advantage of working with us is that Ryan is both a licensed therapist and also a coach, so we can navigate both dimensions when needed.

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What if you're not a good fit for me?

Fit matters more than credentials. If we're not the right match, we won't take it personally — we'll help you find another therapist or coach who is. 

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Do you offer telehealth?

Yes. We offer secure video-based sessions for all residents of North Carolina and Tennessee. Telehealth sessions work identically to in-person sessions in terms of length, cost, and insurance billing.

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Do you work with children or adolescents?

No. We see adults only — individuals and couples. We do not work with anyone under 18. If you need a referral for a child or family therapist, we're happy to recommend trusted colleagues.

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Where is your office?

We are located at 910 East Blvd., Suite 203, Charlotte, NC 28203, in the Dilworth neighborhood near Uptown Charlotte.

LGBTQIA+ affirming therapy practice Charlotte NC

Wishart Counseling Group is a LGBTQIA+ affirming practice.

© 2026 Ryan Wishart LMFT PLLC. All rights reserved.

Gottman Couples Therapist Charlotte NC
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