FAQ

Deciding to seek assistance from a mental health professional is an important decision. Choosing a mental health professional is an even more important decision.

Why do people seek therapy?

People come into therapy for many reasons. Some need to respond to unexpected changes in their lives, while others seek self-exploration and personal growth. When coping skills are overwhelmed by guilt, doubt, anxiety, or despair, therapy can help. Therapy can provide support, problem-solving skills, and enhanced coping for issues such as depression, anxiety, lack of confidence, relationship troubles, unresolved childhood issues, bereavement, spiritual conflicts, stress management, body image issues, and creative blocks. People seeking psychotherapy are willing to take responsibility for their actions, work towards self-change and create greater awareness in their lives.

What can I expect in a therapy session?

During sessions, you are expected to talk about the primary concerns and issues in your life. A session lasts 45 minutes, but some people request longer sessions. Usually, weekly appointments are best. Some people who are in crisis or extreme distress need more than one session per week, at least until the crisis passes. During the time between sessions, it is beneficial to think about and process what was discussed. At times, you may be asked to take certain actions outside of the therapy sessions, such as reading a relevant book or keeping records. For therapy to “work,” you must be an active participant, both in and outside of the therapy sessions.

What benefits can I expect from working with a therapist?

A number of benefits are available from participating in psychotherapy. Often it is helpful just to know that someone understands. Therapy can provide a fresh perspective on a difficult problem or point you in the direction of a solution. Many people find therapy to be a tremendous asset to managing personal growth, interpersonal relationships, family concerns, the hassles and disappointments of daily life. The benefits you obtain from therapy depend on how well you use the process and put into practice what you learn. Some of the benefits available from therapy include:

Attaining a better understanding of yourself and your personal goals and values
Developing skills for improving your relationships
Finding a resolution to the issues or concerns that led you to seek therapy
Find new ways to cope with stress and anxiety
Managing anger, depression, and other emotional pressures
Improving communications skills – learn how to listen to others, and have others listen to you
Getting “unstuck” from unhealthy patterns – breaking old behaviors and develop new ones
Discovering new ways to solve problems
Improving your self-esteem and boosting self-confidence

What if I don’t know what my goals are for therapy?

If you aren’t sure what your goals are for therapy, your first task is to figure that out. It may take several sessions before a direction is clarified. During the course of therapy, your goals may change. However, establishing a direction for therapy will help you get the most out of the experience.

Do you accept insurance? How does insurance work?

There is a confusing array of insurance arrangements. The first thing you should do is check with your insurance carrier. Check your coverage carefully and find the answers to the following questions:

Do I have mental health benefits?
What is my deductible and has it been met?
How many sessions per calendar year does my plan cover?
How much do you pay for an out-of-net provider?
Is there a limitation on how much you will pay per session?
Is primary care physician approval required?

Sliding Fee Discount Offered

No one will be denied access to services due to inability to pay. Reduced fee services are available to those with financial hardship. We commit to serve all patients and offer discounted fees to those who qualify. Fee Discount Applications are available based on family size and income and can be obtained from the front office staff. Sliding Fee Discount Program Application 2023

Is therapy confidential?

In general, the law protects the confidentiality of all communications between a client and a psychologist or psychotherapist. Information is not disclosed without written permission. However, there are a number of exceptions to this rule. Exceptions include:

Suspected child abuse or dependent adult or elder abuse. The therapist is required by law to report this to the appropriate authorities immediately.
If a client is threatening serious bodily harm to another person/s. The therapist must notify the police and inform the intended victim.
If a client intends to harm himself or herself. The therapist will make every effort to enlist their cooperation in insuring their safety. If they do not cooperate, further measures may be taken without their permission in order to ensure their safety.

Why should I choose a provider who is state licensed?

State licensure ensures that the mental health professional you choose has met a minimum standard of professional competence. Licensure also ensures that the mental health professional you choose participates regularly in continuing education to stay abreast of important developments in the field. Those who practice without state licensure have no governing body to regulate their professional activities and ultimately to ensure your safety.

Is it necessary for my provider to have training and experience in working with issues like mine?

Ask the therapist about his/her training to ensure he or she has training and experience in working with the problem or issue with which you are dealing. As in all health care, knowing that your provider has professional training in similar issues to yours is important.

What are the advantages of psychological assessment?

Psychological assessments have a number of elements to help clarify the nature of the problem one is experiencing. Psychological assessment can help clarify the presence of problems such as AD-HD in children or adults, learning disabilities, dementia, somatic disorders, Autism, Asperger’s, or personality problems. Accurate diagnosis is a first step in determining the best treatment strategies.