Why do people seek therapy?

People come into therapy for many reasons.
Some need to respond to unexpected changes in their lives and others seek personal growth.
If you're feeling stressed, anxious or confused therapy can help.
Therapy can also provide support if you have relationship problems, lack confidence, suffer bereavement, experience spiritual conflict, have body image issues, or  deal with creative blocks.
People seeking psychotherapy are willing to create greater awareness in their lives.
 

What can I expect in a therapy session?

During sessions you are expected to talk about the primary concerns and issues in your life.
A session lasts 50 minutes, but some people request longer sessions.
Usually weekly sessions are best.
People who are in crisis or extreme distress may need more than one session per week until the crisis passes. During the time between sessions it is beneficial to think about and process what was discussed.
For therapy to "work" you must be an active participant.

What benefits can I expect from working with a therapist?

Often it is helpful just to know that someone understands.
Therapy can provide a fresh perspective on a difficult problem or point you in the direction of a solution.
Many people find therapy to help them manage interpersonal relationships, family concerns, and personal growth.
Some of the benefits available from therapy include:

• Attaining a better understanding of yourself and your personal goals and values
• Developing skills for improving your relationships
• Finding resolution to the issues or concerns that led you to seek therapy
• Find new ways to cope with stress and anxiety
• Managing anger, depression, and other emotional pressures
• Improving communications skills - learn how to listen to others, and have others listen to you
• Getting "unstuck" from unhealthy patterns - breaking old behaviors and develop new ones
• Discovering new ways to solve problems
• Improving your self-esteem and boosting self-confidence

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

If you aren't sure what your goals are for therapy, your first task is to figure that out.
It may take several sessions before a direction is clarified.
During the course of therapy your goals may change.
Establishing a direction for therapy will help you get the most out of the experience.

Do you accept insurance? How does insurance work?

There is a confusing array of insurance arrangements.
I accept Coventry/First Health Net.
We can discuss other insurance carriers.
The first thing you should do is check with your insurance carrier.
Answer the following questions:

• How many sessions per calendar year does my plan cover?
• Is there a limitation on how much you will pay per session?
• Is primary care physician approval required?
• What is the deductable?

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.
Exceptions follow:

• Suspected child abuse or dependant adult or elder abuse. The therapist is required by law to report this to the appropriate authorities immediately.
• If a client is threatening serious bodily harm to another person/s. The therapist must notify the police and inform the intended victim.
• If a client intends to harm himself or herself. 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.