Common Questions About Therapy
Below are answers to some commonly asked questions about therapy. Please review the information, and reach out if you have any further questions, or would like to schedule an initial appointment.
What is therapy?
Therapy is an opportunity to discuss/talk about issues that are important to the client, while having a trained objective person (Therapist) help work through not only the current situation, but in dealing with similar situations in the future. Therapy can be about one specific problem, or it can be about multiple. Therapy is a collaborative process, it requires an active role from both the client and the therapist for change to occur.
How can therapy help me?
Therapists can provide support, problem-solving skills and coping strategies for a wide range of issues. Therapists, being objective, can provide a different or a fresh perspective on a problem that you have been struggling with.
Benefits of therapy depend on your commitment and level of readiness. Some benefits can include, boosting self-confidence or improving self-esteem, improving communication skills, learning/finding new coping skills, attaining a better understanding of yourself, changing old patterns and developing new ones, or managing your emotional feeling such as sadness, anger or other highly charged emotions you may be feeling.
How long is therapy?
Therapy sessions are typically 45-53 minutes. Clients typically meet on a weekly or bi-weekly basis depending on the client’s needs. Duration of therapy will depend on the individual client’s circumstance. The therapist and client will determine that together.
What does the first session look like?
Prior to our first meeting, I will ask you to complete a set of new client forms. Together, we will review the information you have provided, discuss your reasons for seeking counseling and begin to discuss goals for treatment.
Does what we talk about in therapy remain confidential?
Confidentiality is one of the most important components between a client and psychotherapist. Successful therapy requires a high degree of trust with highly sensitive subject matter that is usually not discussed anywhere but the therapist’s office. Every therapist should provide a written copy of their confidential disclosure agreement, and you can expect that what you discuss in session will not be shared with anyone. This is called “Informed Consent”. Sometimes, however, you may want your therapist to share information or give an update to someone on your healthcare team (your Physician, Naturopath, Attorney), but by law your therapist cannot release this information without obtaining your written permission.
State law and professional ethics require therapists to maintain confidentiality except for the following situations:
- Suspected past or present abuse or neglect of children, adults, and elders to the authorities, including Child Protection and law enforcement, based on information provided by the client or collateral sources.
- If the therapist has reason to suspect the client is seriously in danger of harming him/herself or has threatened to harm another person.
What can I expect during the first session?
Prior to our first meeting, I will ask you to complete a set of new client forms. Together, we will review the information you have provided, discuss your reasons for seeking counseling and begin to discuss goals for treatment.
What is the cost?
The cost is $180 for the initial session and $150 for each standard session thereafter.
Can I use my insurance?
Yes, I am in network with Blue Cross Blue Shield PPO, United Healthcare, and Aetna. I encourage you to contact your insurance company prior to scheduling your first session, so that you are informed about any deductibles, co-pays, or co-insurance costs you may be responsible for.