Vanessa Saenz
Licensed Professional Counselor
Vanessa SaenzMS, LPC
MS, Texas A&M Commerce, 2014
Call and we’ll let you know if Vanessa is taking new clients.
and most major plans
I really enjoy working with older adults because they have so many amazing life stories to share.
Q&A with Vanessa
Getting to know Vanessa
What do you enjoy most about working with older adults?
I really enjoy working with older adults because they have so many amazing life stories to share. Their experiences bring a whole new perspective to our conversations, and I love making genuine connections with them. It’s inspiring to see their strength and wisdom every day.
Each day is a chance to learn something new, and I’m grateful to be part of their journey as they go through this stage of life. Helping them find joy and purpose is super rewarding for me.
Why does online therapy work well for older adults?
Online therapy can be effective for older adults for several reasons. First, it provides convenience and accessibility, allowing those with mobility issues or health concerns to receive support from the comfort of their own homes. This eliminates the need for travel, which can be a significant barrier for some.
How do you approach therapy sessions?
When approaching therapy sessions, I typically start by creating a comfortable and safe environment and building rapport. I aim to establish a trusting rapport with my client, which helps in discussing sensitive topics. I think it’s important to set specific goals for what the client wants to achieve. Overall, I see therapy as a collaborative journey toward growth and understanding.
In my approach to therapy, I focus on creating a safe and supportive environment for my clients. I prioritize active listening and empathy, allowing clients to express their thoughts and feelings without judgment.
I typically use a combination of therapeutic techniques tailored to each individual's needs, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness practices, and solution-focused strategies. This personalized approach helps clients gain insights into their patterns of thinking and behavior while also equipping them with practical tools for coping with challenges.
Collaboration is key in my practice; I work closely with clients to set achievable goals and track progress. I also emphasize the importance of self-care and resilience, empowering clients to foster their own growth and healing in a way that feels meaningful to them.
What inspired you to become a therapist?
I was inspired to become a therapist because I've always had a deep interest in understanding human behavior and emotions. Growing up, I witnessed the challenges some of my friends and family faced and realized how impactful it could be to have someone to talk to during tough times.
The idea of being able to help others navigate their struggles and promote mental well-being resonated with me. I wanted to provide a safe space for individuals to express themselves and work through their issues, and the ability to make a positive difference in people's lives is what motivates me every day.
What is your advice for someone starting therapy for the first time?
Be open and honest, set realistic expectations, choose the right therapist who feels like a good fit, and prepare for session.
What do you wish people knew about therapy?
Therapy can be a powerful tool for personal growth and self-discovery. Many people might think it’s only for those in crisis, but it can benefit anyone looking to understand themselves better, improve their relationships, or cope with stress. It's important to know that therapy is a safe space where you can express your thoughts and feelings without judgment.
Be open and honest, set realistic expectations, choose the right therapist who feels like a good fit, and prepare for session.
Fun fact about me, is that I have six dogs, who I love and care for.
Common questions
Frequently asked questions
Choose a topic. Can’t find your answer? Call our care team at 1-800-567-LIFE.
About Total Life
Who is the service for?
Our service is tailored for seniors looking to navigate the challenges of aging and aiming to make their golden years, golden.
What is the core purpose of your teletherapy service?
Our core purpose is to help as many seniors as possible access the mental health care they need, irrespective of their insurance coverage. We believe everyone deserves quality mental health care.
How is your service tailored to seniors?
Our platform is easy to use, with straightforward steps to connect you with a therapist. Additionally, our care team is always ready to assist you from start to finish.
How can teletherapy help me feel like the best version of myself?
Teletherapy provides a supportive environment to explore and address concerns, helping you work through challenges and promoting mental well-being.
How is your service different from conventional therapy?
Unlike conventional therapy, we provide access to therapy through Original Medicare coverage. Our care team facilitates a smooth process from the initial call all the way through ongoing care.
Insurance & coverage
Are your teletherapy services covered by Original Medicare?
Yes, our services are accessible through Original Medicare coverage, making mental health care more accessible for seniors.
Do you accept insurance plans other than Original Medicare?
Yes, we accept select Medicare Advantage (MA) plans. Please contact our care team to verify if your specific plan is accepted.
How do I pay for my sessions?
Payment can be made through various methods including Original Medicare coverage. Our care team can provide more detailed information based on your specific situation.
Is there a limit to the number of sessions I can have?
Original Medicare has an uncapped session limit; the number of sessions will be determined based on your individual needs and treatment plan.
What is a Superbill and how can it benefit me?
A Superbill is an itemized form that details the services you have received from us. It provides all the information needed to submit a claim to your insurance for out-of-network reimbursement.
If I have out-of-network benefits, how does the reimbursement process work?
If you have out-of-network benefits, you can submit the Superbill we provide to your insurance company for reimbursement. The reimbursement rate and process depend on your plan.
How do I obtain a Superbill for my sessions?
After each session, we can provide you with a Superbill. Our care team will assist you in generating a Superbill for your records.
Therapists & sessions
How experienced are your providers in working with older adults?
Our providers are hired specifically for their experience with older adults. They are trained and equipped to understand and address the unique mental health needs of seniors.
Can I choose my therapist?
We make every effort to match you with a therapist who has the right experience and expertise for your needs. If you have a preference, we’ll do our best to accommodate it.
What if I don’t feel a connection with my therapist?
It’s important to have a good rapport with your therapist. If for any reason you wish to change therapists, just let us know and we’ll facilitate a switch.
How is progress measured in teletherapy?
Progress is measured through regular reviews and discussions between you and your therapist, ensuring that the therapy is effective and meeting your needs.
Getting started
How quickly can I start with my therapy sessions?
Our care team is dedicated to facilitating a quick and easy process from your first phone call to setting up a therapy session on the same call.
How do I schedule a teletherapy session?
Scheduling a session is simple. Just give us a call at 1-800-567-LIFE and our care team will assist you in setting up a session on the first call itself.
Do I need any special equipment for teletherapy?
All you need is a computer, tablet, or smartphone with a camera and microphone, and a reliable internet connection. Phone-only sessions are also available.
What if I need to cancel or reschedule my appointment?
We have a flexible cancellation and rescheduling policy. Just contact our care team and they will assist you with the necessary changes.









