Frequently Asked Questions: Therapy

What is therapy?

Therapy can help clients understand their "story" or "journey"- the experiences in life that shaped them.  It's an individualized and creative approach to bring about lasting change.

How do I know if you are the right therapist for me?

Read my website, visit my FB and IG pages.  See if my approach and what I share sounds agreeable to you.  Set up an initial appointment, most people know if it's a "good fit" after 1 session.  The therapeutic relationship is important, it is encouraging and helps hold us accountable- the "right fit" for both of us is necessary.

How do I know if therapy is helping?

Most people don't "feel better" right away.  Therapy involves an active effort to look at yourself and life situations- it takes time to look deep and to be honest with yourself.

There is often short-term distress when starting this process and making changes- BUT the long-term improvement is worth it! You know it's helping when you are working on goals and feel/see improvement in how you relate to yourself and others.

Do you accept health insurance?

        I am a fee for service provider, meaning you pay out of pocket for the services.  The reasons for this include: 

• confidentiality for clients (insurance companies can require personal treatment records and diagnosis and both of these become a part of your permanent file)

• you and I retain control over treatment plans and goals (insurance companies often cover only a certain number of sessions and allow for treatment for certain diagnosis)

• insurance companies require a diagnosis of a mental illness (insurance companies will only pay for certain diagnoses and if they are proven to be medically necessary- many of life's problems are not actual mental health disorders and I believe they shouldn't have to be labeled as one)

• and lastly most insurance companies only pay for in office sessions (per my counseling experience and research, counseling in natural environments is proven to be much more successful)

        If you wish to use out of network benefits, please discuss with me and we can arrange for a monthly statement for you to submit.

What forms of payment do you accept?

        I accept cash, credit/debit card, and money order (sometimes HSA will pay for services).  No personal checks.  Payment is due at the time of service.  

What should I bring to the initial session?

        Yourself, payment, and a willingness to look inward.

How long will I be in counseling?

        The length of time depends on the complexity of the goals you wish to work on.  Generally counseling sessions are one time/week to start and can taper off dependent on your needs.  

Is natural environment counseling confidential?

        Yes, it can be.  There is no way to guarantee we won't see people we know.  During our initial meeting we will discuss options that work best for you.

What if I am out of shape?

        Sessions are not meant to be cardio workouts or personal training sessions.  You set the pace.  I do recommend if you have concerns to see a physician and be cleared for movement and counseling.

How should I prepare for active counseling?

        Dress comfortably and for the weather (if we are outside).  Also check with your physician to confirm active counseling is OK for you.