What is therapy?
Everyone experiences challenging situations in life and while some situations are easier than others, there is nothing wrong with seeking extra support when it feels like too much to handle. In fact, know that you are in over your head and reaching out to ask for help is something to be admired. Therapy offers lasting support to give you the tools you need to succeed even after session is over.
What to expect from your first appointment?
Your first appointment will be us getting to know each other and completing paperwork. I will inquire about what brings you to counseling and want your goals are for change. It is important that you feel safe and comfortable throughout your experience. I can answer any of your questions and walk you through the process. Reaching out is often the scariest part!
What will therapy be like?
Everyone has different needs and goals for therapy so it varies for every individual. Overall, you can expect to discuss the current events happening in your life, your past history relevant to what brings you here and review progress from the previous therapy sessions. It is most common that we will meet weekly.
Note, it is important to understand that you will get more results from therapy if you actively participate in the process. This means using the skills that you will learn in session outside of session in your day to day life. This means that your therapist might suggest some things you can do outside of therapy to support your growth – such as reading a book, journaling, noting particular behaviors or taking action on your goals. People who are ready to make a change often want a new tools and techniques to make lasting change.
Do you take my insurance?
At this time I take Premera Insurance. If you have a different insurance and want to use your benefits, I can provide you with a super bill that you give to your insurance to be reimbursed if this is something you are interested in.
How long does therapy last?
Therapy has no specific deadline! Most clients report feeling better with in the first few months of regular attended therapy.
Will you tell anyone what I talk about with you?
Your confidentially is important! Successful therapy requires a high degree of trust between you and your therapist. When you begin services, your therapist will provide a written copy of their confidential disclosure agreement (this is called “Informed Consent”). This form details that what you say in session, stays in session. However due to Washington State law and licensed counselor ethics (your counselor is a mandated reporter) there are three exceptions to this rule;
if there is suspected past or present abuse or neglect of a child, adult or an elder your therapist MUST report this to the appropriate service including but not limited to CPS, APS and Crime Check.
If the therapist has reason to suspect a client is in serious danger of harming him/herself or
harming and/or threatening to harm another person.
*If you have any questions about confidentiality or if this is something that would need to be reported this can be discussed with your therapist.
Continuing, there are times where you may want your therapist to provide information to someone on your healthcare team. If this is the case, you will complete a release of information detailing what information you are allowing your therapist to share with the identified individual.
Can you prescribe me medication for my mental health?
I am not a psychiatrist and therefore I cannot prescribe any type of medications.