I’ve never talked to anyone because I’m used to handling things on my own. Will I be considered weak if I go to therapy?
Not at all. It takes strength to know when you need help and have the courage to reach out. We all need help now and then. You have strengths that you’ve used before, but, for whatever reason, they aren't working right now. Perhaps this problem feels so overwhelming that it is difficult to access them. In our work together, I’ll help you identify what those strengths are and how to implement them again in what is happening now.
How long and how many times a week is a typical session?
Sessions are usually 50 minutes. Most clients are seen once a week in the beginning. The number of sessions depends on what your individual needs are.
What’s the difference between talking to you or my best friend or family?
A mental health professional can help you approach your situation in a new way– teach you new skills, gain different perspectives, listen to you without judgment or expectations, and help you listen to yourself. Because therapy is completely confidential, you won’t have to worry about others “knowing your business.”
How long will I be in counseling?
The length of time a client is in therapy depends the nature of the problem and the goals of the therapy. Some clients have a very specific problem that can be worked through in a shorter course of therapy. For others, therapy is an on-going learning process and they choose to receive therapy for a longer period.
How much are your fees and do you take insurance?
Your fee depends on individual circumstances, and starts at $100 per session. I am an out of network provider. I do not bill insurance directly, but this doesn't necessarily mean that therapy isn't covered. As an out of network provider, you are able to receive counseling services without a required diagnosis, and, we can decide together how much, if any, information you want shared with your insurance company.Many insurance plans will reimburse you for part of the fee depending on the plan you have. Check with your insurance company to find out what percentage they will reimburse you for an "out-of-network mental health provider." You are responsible for the full fee on the day of your session and I can supply you with a detailed receipt that includes all the coding information that the insurance company needs in order to properly reimburse you
Why shouldn’t I just take medication?
Medication may provide relief from symptoms, however, it alone cannot solve all of your issues. Our work together is designed to explore the root of the issue, dig deep into your behavior and teach strategies that can help you accomplish your personal and/or relational goals.
I want to get the most out of therapy, what can I do?
In sessions, your active participation and dedication is crucial to your success. Since we only see each other for a session a week, the work you do outside of our sessions will really help you see personal growth and development.
My partner and I are having problems. Should we be in individual counseling or come together?
If you are concerned about your relationship, and you would both like to work with me, I would initially work with both of you together. After this work, if one of you would like to continue in individual sessions, I could work with only one of you. It is not helpful to move from individual into couple’s work with the same therapist because of potential trust issues.
