Why do people seek therapy?

People seek 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 past issues, bereavement, spiritual conflicts, stress management, self-image issues, or creative blocks.

People get the most from psychotherapy by being willing to take responsibility for their actions, working towards self-change and creating greater awareness in their lives.

What can I expect in a therapy session?

In therapy sessions, people share about primary concerns and issues in their lives. A session lasts roughly 45-60 minutes. Typically sessions are generally scheduled every other week. During the time between sessions it is beneficial to think about and process what was discussed. Your action steps outside of the therapy sessions provide the impetus for long-term healing. These steps include reading helpful information, completing worksheets, making observations and practicing new behaviors. For therapy to “work,” it’s important you are active both in and outside of the therapy sessions.

 

Individuals who are in crisis or extreme distress should seek out urgent by calling the National Suicide Hotline https://988lifeline.org/or by seeking emergent behavioral health care through the nearest hospital emergency department. 

 

What benefits can I expect from working with a therapist?

A number of benefits are available from participating in psychotherapy. It is helpful to have someone who listens and understands. Therapy can provide a fresh perspective on a difficult problem. You may discover a new direction or a solution to a longstanding problem. Many people find therapy to be a tremendous asset to enhance personal growth, interpersonal relationships, address family concerns, and the hassles 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:

  • Clarify your personal values and goals.
  • Find resolution to the issues or concerns that led you to seek therapy.
  • Enhance your coping skills for stress and anxiety.
  • Develop emotional fluency.
  • Gain communication skills necessary for harmonious relationships.
  • Free yourself from old behaviors and unhelpful patterns.
  • Experience enhanced self-esteem and self-confidence.
  • Enhanced creative flow.

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

Clarifying your goals for therapy is an essential task. Establishing a direction for therapy helps you get the most out of the experience.

Do you accept insurance? How does insurance work?

We understand questions about insurance funding frequently arise. However, not all insurance plans recognize all providers.

Here are some helpful questions to review with your commercial insurance carrier:

  • Do I have behavioral health benefits?
  • What is my deductible and has it been met for the calendar year?
  • How many sessions per calendar year does my plan cover?
  • How much does my plan for an in or out-of-network provider?
  • Is there a limitation on how much you will pay per session?
  • What’s my copayment or coinsurance per session?
  • Is primary care physician approval required for behavioral health?
  • How may I submit documentation for reimbursement?

Is therapy confidential?

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

  • Probable cases of child, dependent adult or elder abuse. The therapist is required by law to report this to the appropriate authorities immediately.
  • A client is threatening serious bodily harm to another person(s). The therapist must notify the police and inform the intended victim.
  • A client intends self harm. 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.
  • If a client’s records are subpoenaed by the state or federal court system. It’s best to notify the staff of any current of pending legal involvement at the onset of treatment.
  • If you submit for insurance reimbursement. If you chose to submit documentation to your insurance company, your insurer has the right to review documentation and therapy notes.
  • If you sign a release of information.