Frequently Asked Questions

 

Is therapy right for me?

Seeking out therapy is an individual choice and there are many reasons why people come to therapy. Sometimes it is to deal with long-standing psychological issues. Other times it is in response to unexpected changes in one's life such as a divorce or work transition. Working with a therapist can help provide insight, support, and new strategies for all types of life challenges. Therapy can help address many types of issues including depression, anxiety, conflict, grief, stress management, body-image issues, and general life transitions. Therapy is right for anyone who is interested in getting the most out of their life by taking responsibility, creating greater self-awareness, and working towards change in their lives.

 

How long is each session?

Typically, sessions are 45-50 minutes. Longer sessions may be available upon request and availability. 

 

What is your cancellation policy?

To cancel or reschedule an appointment, please give 24-hour notice via email or phone. If you do not show up for your scheduled therapy appointment and have not given 24-hour notice, you will be expected to pay the full cost of the session.

 

What is therapy like?

Every therapy session is unique and caters to each individual and their specific goals. It is common to schedule a series of weekly sessions, where each session lasts around fifty minutes. Therapy can be short-term, focusing on a specific issue, or longer-term, addressing more complex issues or ongoing personal growth. There may be times when you are asked to take certain actions outside of the therapy sessions, such as reading a relevant book or keeping records to track certain behaviors. It is important to process what has been discussed and integrate it into your life between sessions. Here are some things you can expect out of therapy:

  • Compassion, respect and understanding

  • Perspectives to illuminate persistent patterns and negative feelings

  • Real strategies for enacting positive change

  • Effective and proven techniques along with practical guidance

 

Is medication a substitution for therapy?

In some cases a combination of medication and therapy is the right course of action. Working with your medical doctor you can determine what's best for you. It is well established that the long-term solution to mental and emotional problems and the pain they cause cannot be solved solely by medication. Instead of just treating the symptom, therapy addresses the cause of our distress and the behavior patterns that curb our progress. You can best achieve sustainable growth and a greater sense of well being with an integrative approach to wellness.

 

What are your counseling fees?

My standard fee is $175 per 50 minute individual therapy session and $225 per couples session.

 

Do you accept insurance? How does insurance work?


Do I really need therapy?

Everyone goes through challenging situations in life, and while you may have successfully navigated through other difficulties you've faced, there's nothing wrong with seeking out extra support when you need it. In fact, therapy is for people who have enough self-awareness to realize they need a helping hand, and that is something to be admired. Therapy provides long-lasting benefits and support, giving you the tools you need to avoid triggers, re-direct damaging patterns, and overcome whatever challenges you face.

 

How can therapy help me?

A number of benefits are available from participating in psychotherapy. Therapists can provide support, problem-solving skills, and enhanced coping strategies for issues such as depression, anxiety, relationship troubles, unresolved childhood issues, grief, stress management, body image issues and creative blocks. Many people also find that counselors can be a tremendous asset to managing personal growth, interpersonal relationships, family concerns, marriage issues, and the hassles of daily life. Therapists can provide a fresh perspective on a difficult problem or point you in the direction of a solution. 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, your goals and values

  • Developing skills for improving your relationships

  • Finding resolution to the issues or concerns that led you to seek therapy

  • Learning new ways to cope with stress and anxiety

  • Managing anger, grief, depression, and other emotional pressures

  • Improving communications and listening skills

  • Changing old behavior patterns and developing new ones

  • Discovering new ways to solve problems in your family or marriage

  • Improving your self-esteem and boosting self-confidence