About Adam
Adam Baldowski
MA, PhD, Licensed Mental Health Counselor MH20794
In addition to the interests above, I am educated in assessing for gender dysphoria and offer letters for Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT). You will never be charged extra for an HRT letter. It is part of the services offered when working with gender dysphoria if HRT is a desired outcome.
I am an LGBTQIA+, gender affirming and kink friendly therapist. I use a multi-faceted approach in my counseling style but primarily use Narrative and Geek Therapy, with a certification in Hypnotherapy.
A typical session is 50-minutes in length and can be provided weekly or bi-weekly depending on your schedule.
I offer both in-person and online sessions. If seeking Telehealth, you must be located in the state of Florida at the time of service.
Specializations
Sexual Trauma
Dissociative Disorders
Life Transition
LGBTQ+
Hours
9:00 am - 6:00 pm
Get In Touch
Message AdamWhat is a therapeutic TTRPG?
A Therapeutic Tabletop Role-Playing Game (TTRPG) is a structured group therapy experience where participants take on fictional characters in a shared story. These games, like Monster of the Week or Masks, create opportunities to explore emotions, practice communication, develop coping skills, and reflect—all within the safety of a collaborative game. You’ll still be working with a licensed therapist (that’s me!), but in a way that’s imaginative and interactive.
Who are these groups for?
My TTRPG therapy groups are designed for anyone who wants to do group work through play. This includes adolescents (13+), young adults, and professionals who want to explore identity, build social skills, work through anxiety or trauma, or simply connect with others in a creative, supportive way. If you’re unsure if it’s a fit, let’s talk!
Do I need to have any gaming experience?
Not at all! Many participants have never played a TTRPG before joining. I walk everyone through the basics and provide everything you need. The focus is on connection and growth—not knowing all the rules.
Is this really therapy?
Yes. These sessions are facilitated by a licensed mental health professional and use evidence-based therapeutic approaches (like Narrative Therapy, DBT, and IFS) within the game. We use story and character as tools to process emotions, build insight, and foster meaningful change.
What if I don’t like the game or the group?
That’s okay! Not every game or group is the right fit. I’ll check in with you regularly to make sure you’re getting something valuable from the experience. We can also explore other group options or individual sessions if needed.
What should I bring to a session?
Just yourself, an internet connection (if the group is virtual), and a willingness to try something new. I’ll provide character sheets, rules, and prompts. Snacks optional—but encouraged.
Are your games LGBTQIA+ affirming?
Absolutely. I specialize in working with LGBTQIA+ clients, and my groups are explicitly inclusive and welcoming. Games like Thirsty Sword Lesbians and Masks are designed to support queer joy, identity exploration, and belonging.
What if I feel like the group doesn’t like me?
Feeling uncertain in group settings is normal, especially when you’re trying something new. We’ll make space to talk about group dynamics, and I work hard to create a safe, affirming, and inclusive space for everyone. If something doesn’t feel right, I want to hear about it—we can work through it together.
How much does it cost?
Therapeutic TTRPG groups are $60 per session. Some insurance plans may cover the cost depending on your benefits. I also offer sliding scale spots and can provide a superbill for reimbursement.
What happens if I miss a session?
Please try to let me know at least 48 hours in advance if you can’t attend. Late cancellations (within 24 hours) may be charged the full session rate. If you’re having a hard time, reach out—I’m flexible, and we’ll figure it out. Just don’t ghost me. Let’s save that for the horror campaigns.
What if I can’t afford the $60 per session?
I get it—therapy can be a financial commitment. I offer sliding scale spots based on need, and I’m happy to work with you to find an option that fits your budget. If you have insurance, I may be able to bill directly or provide a superbill for potential reimbursement. Please don’t let cost be the reason you don’t reach out—let’s talk and see what we can figure out together.
Why does it cost $60 per session?
The $60 fee reflects the rate set for insurance reimbursement, which is based on the time, training, and clinical expertise involved in running a structured therapy group. These aren’t just game nights—they’re facilitated by a licensed therapist and integrate therapeutic techniques to support your growth and wellbeing.
If you’re paying out of pocket, I offer sliding scale options to make the group more accessible. If you have insurance, I can often bill directly, or provide a superbill you can submit to your insurance for possible out-of-network reimbursement (depending on your plan).
If you have questions about payment or coverage, I’m happy to walk you through it—just reach out.
Do you accept insurance?
Yes, I accept some insurance plans and can also provide documentation for out-of-network reimbursement. If you’re unsure about your coverage, I’m happy to help you navigate the process.
Can I pay for multiple sessions in advance?
Yes! If you prefer, you’re welcome to pay for several sessions up front as a private pay client. This can be a convenient way to reserve your spot and commit to the group experience.
However, please note that insurance cannot be billed in bulk, so this option is only available if you choose to opt out of using insurance. If you’d like to explore this route or have questions about how it works, feel free to reach out and I’ll walk you through it.
Do you accept insurance?
BCBS, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts, Aetna, Aetna CVS, AllSavers UHC, United Healthcare, UHC Student Resources, UMR, Oscar, Oxford Health Plans, Cigna, Meritain, Nippon, Optum, and Optum Live & Work Well (EAP).
I also work through Alma and Headway, which help streamline insurance billing and offer additional plan options.
How does insurance billing work?
When I submit a session to your insurance, they review the claim and send back something called an EOB (Explanation of Benefits). This tells both of us what was covered, what was applied to your deductible or co-pay, and what (if anything) you still owe.
Your insurance plan may not cover the full session cost right away, or may apply it to your deductible. It’s your responsibility to know your plan’s benefits, including what’s covered and what your financial responsibility may be.
What if insurance denies a claim?
If your insurance denies a claim or reverses a previously approved claim (yes, they do that sometimes), you’ll be responsible for the full session fee. I’ll always notify you if something changes or doesn’t go through, and I’m happy to help you navigate your EOB or appeal a denial if needed.
Can I still pay privately if I don’t want to use insurance?
Absolutely. If you prefer not to use insurance, you can opt out and pay the private rate of $60 per session. I also offer sliding scale options for those paying out of pocket. Some clients choose to pay in advance for multiple sessions, which is fine as long as insurance isn’t being billed.
What happens if I’m late or miss a session?
Please do your best to arrive on time. If you’re more than 15 minutes late, the session will be cancelled, and a $50 late fee will be charged. This time is reserved for you. If something unexpected happens, just reach out—I’m flexible when I can be.
Do I have to use my insurance?
Not at all. You’re welcome to pay privately if that’s a better fit for your needs or preferences. Some clients choose this route for greater flexibility, privacy, or to avoid navigating deductibles and network restrictions.
If you pay the full out-of-pocket rate, I can provide a superbill—a receipt with all the information your insurance company needs to process a potential out-of-network reimbursement. However, not all plans accept superbills, and I cannot guarantee that your insurance will reimburse you. It’s your responsibility to check with your plan to see if this is an option.
If you’re not seeking reimbursement, you may qualify for a sliding scale rate, which is a lower fee based on your financial situation. Please note: sliding scale payments cannot be submitted to insurance or applied to your deductible.
Feel free to reach out if you’d like help deciding what payment option is best for you.
What’s the difference between deductible, co-insurance, out-of-pocket maximum, and percentage of coverage?
Health insurance can be confusing, so here’s a quick breakdown of these common terms:
Deductible: This is the amount you have to pay out of pocket each year before your insurance starts covering services. For example, if your deductible is $1,000, you’ll pay for sessions yourself until you reach that amount.
Co-insurance: Once your deductible is met, co-insurance kicks in. This means you and your insurance company share the cost. For instance, if your co-insurance is 20%, you’ll pay 20% of the session fee, and insurance pays 80%.
Out-of-pocket maximum: This is the most you’ll have to pay in total for covered services in a year. Once you reach this amount, your insurance pays 100% of covered costs for the rest of the year.
Percentage of coverage: Sometimes insurance plans list a percentage instead of a co-pay. For example, they may say they cover “70% of behavioral health services” after the deductible is met—meaning you pay the remaining 30%.
It’s always best to check with your insurance provider to find out where you are with your deductible and what your expected cost per session will be.
What’s a superbill, and how does it work?
A superbill is a special type of receipt I can provide if you’re paying out of pocket but want to try getting reimbursed by your insurance. It includes all the clinical and billing codes insurance companies need to process an out-of-network claim.
Keep in mind:
Not all plans accept superbills.
Reimbursement is not guaranteed and depends entirely on your insurance provider.
It’s your responsibility to contact your plan and ask if they reimburse for out-of-network mental health services with a superbill.
If you’re using a sliding scale fee, I cannot issue a superbill for that lower amount—it must be based on the full private-pay rate.
I’m happy to help guide you on what questions to ask your insurance company.
What is a sliding scale fee?
A sliding scale is a reduced fee I offer for clients who are paying privately and may not be able to afford the full session rate. It’s designed to make therapy more accessible based on your financial situation.
Here’s what to know:
Sliding scale rates are not billable to insurance.
They cannot be applied toward your deductible or reimbursed through a superbill.
They’re available on a case-by-case basis, and we can discuss what makes sense for your budget.
If you’re not using insurance and need a reduced rate, let’s talk—I want therapy to be affordable and sustainable for you.
Why is the therapy rate so high?
Therapy can feel like a big investment—because it is. The session fee reflects more than just the hour we spend together. It includes:
Years of training, licensure, and continuing education
Time spent planning, documenting, and managing your care outside the session
Administrative tasks, insurance billing, and HIPAA-compliant technology
It’s also the rate that insurance companies base their reimbursement on. That said, I understand finances are real, and I offer sliding scale options to help make therapy more accessible. If you ever feel unsure about payment, I encourage you to reach out—we’ll figure it out together.
How does insurance work for group, couples, or family therapy?
Insurance can cover group therapy, couples counseling, and family therapy, but coverage varies depending on your plan.
Group therapy is usually covered similarly to individual therapy, especially when it’s billed under a licensed provider using the appropriate group therapy code.
Couples and family therapy may be covered only if there’s a diagnosable mental health condition being addressed and one individual is listed as the primary client. Insurance companies typically require documentation that treatment is clinically necessary—not just for relationship improvement or communication skills.
It’s your responsibility to check with your insurance provider about coverage, copays, and deductibles. I’m happy to help walk you through it or provide the information you’ll need to ask the right questions.
Still have questions?
I know insurance can be confusing. Feel free to reach out with your plan details and I’ll help you figure out what to expect—or connect you with Alma or Headway if they can simplify the process.
What is VR?
Virtual Reality (VR) is a fully immersive digital environment that you experience through a headset. It can feel like you’ve stepped into another world—whether you’re exploring nature, facing a fear in a safe setting, or solving puzzles in a team-based adventure. VR is interactive, engaging, and used in many fields from gaming to education to (you guessed it) mental health.
How is VR used therapeutically?
In therapy, VR creates experiential opportunities for emotional processing, skill-building, and self-exploration. Whether it’s practicing mindfulness in a virtual forest, role-playing social situations, or confronting phobias in a controlled space, VR allows clients to engage with therapy in a hands-on, embodied way. It’s especially helpful when talk alone isn’t enough.
Is this really therapy?
Yes! All VR sessions are conducted by a licensed mental health professional (that’s me!) and incorporate evidence-based practices such as CBT, DBT, Narrative Therapy, and exposure-based techniques. VR is not a gimmick—it’s a powerful therapeutic tool that complements traditional methods, grounded in clinical goals and ethical practice.
What can VR be used for in therapy?
Some common uses include:
Anxiety reduction & exposure therapy
Social skills building
Trauma processing (when appropriate)
Mindfulness & emotional regulation
Motivation & focus (especially in teens and young adults)
Identity exploration and embodiment
Creative processing and narrative work
Can you walk me through what a VR therapy session looks like?
Absolutely—and rest assured, we don’t just jump straight into the headset on day one.
First, we’ll begin with one or more traditional talk therapy sessions to:
Get to know each other
Understand your goals
Assess if VR is a good fit for your needs, preferences, and comfort level
Discuss safety, accessibility, and how you feel about using immersive technology
Once you’re ready, we’ll ease into the VR experience gradually. I’ll guide you through the headset setup, orient you to the virtual environment, and make sure you feel grounded and in control every step of the way.
Here’s what a typical VR session might look like once we’re using the technology:
Start with a brief check-in, just like in regular therapy.
We enter a VR environment tailored to your goals (e.g., a calming space for anxiety, a narrative scenario for identity exploration, or a role-play setting for social skills).
I may guide you through grounding exercises, prompts, or interactions within the VR world—always aligned with your therapeutic goals.
After the VR portion, we’ll debrief and process what came up—emotionally, physically, and cognitively.
We connect the experience to your broader life, patterns, and goals—because VR is just one part of your whole-person care plan.
You’ll never be rushed, and you’ll never be in it alone.
What ages is VR therapy good for?
VR can be helpful for clients ages 13 and up, depending on maturity, comfort with technology, and clinical appropriateness. I work with teens, young adults, and adults, and I always assess whether VR is a good fit for your unique needs.
Will you be able to see what I see in VR?
Yes, in most cases. When you’re using one of my provided headsets in session or connecting remotely, I have the ability to mirror your view or track your interactions. This helps me guide and support you in real-time and ensures we’re aligned in what you’re experiencing.
Will you join me in VR?
Sometimes, yes! If we’re using multiplayer environments or collaborative activities, I can join you in VR as an avatar or a guide. In other cases, I’ll remain your outside observer and coach while you explore independently. Either way, you’re never alone in the experience.
Does VR therapy cost more than regular talk therapy?
Nope. VR sessions are billed at the same rate as individual therapy, whether you’re using insurance or paying out of pocket. The technology is part of your care—it’s not an extra fee. If equipment is needed for remote use, we’ll discuss options (like borrowing or accessibility support).
Is there any evidence that VR helps in therapy?
Yes, and growing every year! Research shows VR can reduce anxiety, improve social skills, increase emotional engagement, and support trauma work. A few key findings:
VR exposure therapy is effective for phobias and PTSD.
Mindfulness in VR increases emotional regulation.
VR helps clients with autism, ADHD, and anxiety build social and executive function skills.
Let me know if you’d like specific articles or studies—I’m happy to share!
What qualifications do you have to use VR in therapy?
I’m a licensed mental health counselor with a PhD in Media Psychology, and I specialize in using geek therapy, gaming, and immersive media to support clients. I’m trained in integrating VR into evidence-based clinical practice, and I stay current on emerging research and safety protocols. I also host a podcast with Dr. Jessica Stone, who founded MHVR International Coalition, about the subject of VR and Mental Health. This isn’t just tech—it’s part of my therapeutic toolkit.
What headsets do you use?
I currently use:
Meta Quest 2
Meta Quest 3
Meta Quest Pro
All headsets are wireless, immersive, and allow for flexible in-office or remote options depending on your setup.
What kinds of games or experiences do you use?
I use a curated library of therapeutically aligned apps and games, including:
Tripp (mindfulness & emotion regulation)
Open-ended creativity spaces (like Tilt Brush or ShapesXR)
Social simulators for role-play and communication practice
Narrative exploration tools for trauma processing and identity work
And sometimes, game-based metaphors like puzzle solving or journey-based play to process emotional stuck points
Every choice is guided by your goals, interests, and comfort level.
What if I’m doing therapy virtually—do I need my own VR headset?
Short answer: yes. If you’re attending sessions virtually and want to use VR, you’ll need access to your own compatible headset or device.
I’m currently working on a rental program to make this more accessible, but that’s still a work in progress. For now, you’ll need to provide your own headset (such as a Meta Quest 2, 3, or Pro) or find a way to borrow one.
Some phone-based viewers (like Google Cardboard) can turn your smartphone into a VR device, but results are hit or miss and often limited in functionality. If you’re interested in getting started but aren’t sure what to buy or borrow, I’m happy to help you figure out the best and most affordable option.
What is Storyology?
Storyology is the study and use of story and psychology—how we make meaning from the stories we live, tell, and create. At Storyology, we believe therapy isn’t just about solving problems; it’s about rewriting your personal narrative, exploring identity, and finding empowerment through imagination, emotion, and connection. Whether it’s through talk therapy, tabletop role-playing games, or virtual reality, we help you use story as a path to healing and self-discovery.
What are your business hours?
We see clients from 9am-6pm daily, Monday through Friday. We are available on the weekend with advance notice. If you have an emergency, please call 911 immediately.
Do you offer weekend sessions?
Yes, but availability is limited. Weekend sessions must be arranged ahead of time and cannot be scheduled through the client portal. If you’re interested in a weekend spot, email or message me directly.
Do you have a client portal?
Yes! Once you’re onboarded, you’ll have access to a secure client portal where you can schedule appointments, send messages, and complete paperwork.
What’s the best way to reach you?
You can reach me by:
Email: adam@storyology.care
Phone or text: 321-316-9843
Secure message: Through the client portal (for current clients)
I do my best to respond within 1–2 business days.
What is your counseling approach?
My approach is client-centered, collaborative, and story-driven. I integrate tools from Narrative Therapy, Internal Family Systems (IFS), DBT, trauma-informed care, and geek therapy to support your growth. I focus on building safety, exploring identity, and helping you feel empowered to re-author your life in meaningful ways. Whether you’re struggling with anxiety, trauma, identity questions, or just feeling stuck—I’ll meet you where you are, with compassion and curiosity.
What if I have questions about counseling?
Ask them! Starting therapy can feel overwhelming, and it’s okay to be uncertain. I’m happy to answer any questions you have—whether it’s about fees, methods, session structure, or if therapy is even the right fit for you. A good therapeutic relationship starts with transparency and trust.
What can I expect from counseling?
In our work together, you can expect:
A safe, nonjudgmental space to be yourself
Collaborative goal-setting based on your needs
Exploration of your values, experiences, and the stories you carry
Creative and flexible tools (like metaphor, pop culture, or VR) to support your growth
Opportunities for emotional insight, skill-building, and lasting change
Counseling isn’t one-size-fits-all. We’ll tailor your experience to reflect you.
What is geek therapy?
Geek therapy uses your passions—like video games, tabletop RPGs, superheroes, comics, horror movies, or fandoms—as therapeutic tools. By connecting through the things you love, we can explore emotional challenges, identity development, social skills, trauma, and more. It’s a way to make therapy feel familiar, relevant, and fun, especially for folks who don’t resonate with traditional approaches.
Why geek therapy?
Because it works. When therapy connects with your interests and language, it becomes more authentic and effective. Geek culture is rich with metaphors for survival, identity, connection, and power. Whether you’re a Final Girl, a Dungeon Master, a Jedi, or just someone who grew up feeling different—there’s meaning in the media you love. We use that as a bridge to healing.
What is FEARapy?
FEARapy is a horror-informed therapeutic approach I developed that uses horror media as metaphor. Through horror films, games, and stories, we explore fears, trauma, resilience, identity, and survival. It’s not about jump scares—it’s about facing the monster, understanding what it represents, and reclaiming your power. I also host a podcast by the same name, where I talk with creators, clinicians, and fans about how horror helps us heal.
What if I feel like we’re not a good fit?
That’s totally okay—and it’s brave to say so. A strong therapeutic relationship is one of the most important parts of successful therapy. If you ever feel like we’re not clicking or this isn’t the right space for you, please let me know. I won’t take it personally—I’ll support you in finding someone who is a better fit for your needs, style, or goals. Your healing matters most, and I’m here to help you get where you need to go, even if that means helping you transition to another therapist.
