FAQs

I’ve never talked to anyone. I’m used to handling things on my own. Aren’t people who go to therapy weak?

Not at all. People who ask for help know when they need it and have the ability to reach out. Everyone needs help now and then. You already have some strengths that you’ve used before; but maybe, for whatever reason, aren’t working right now. Perhaps this problem feels overwhelming, which makes it difficult to access your past strengths. In our work together, I’ll help you identify what those strengths are and how to implement them again in what is happening now.

What’s the difference between talking to you or my best friend or family?

While family and friends may be good listeners and potentially a great support to you, a mental health professional has years of specialized training and experience in understanding human behavior, emotion, and complex problems. As your therapist, I can provide you with an objective level of insight that those closest to you may not recognize or feel freely able to share.  I can help you approach your situation in a new way– teach you new skills, help you gain different perspectives, listen to you without judgment or expectations, and help you listen to yourself. Furthermore, therapy is completely confidential. You won’t have to worry about others “knowing my business.” Lastly, if your situation provokes a great deal of negative emotion, if you’ve been confiding in a friend or family member, there is the risk that once you are feeling better you could start avoiding that person, so you aren’t reminded of this difficult time in your life.

What should I know before using my insurance?

There are both pros and cons to using insurance. 

Pros:

• Lower out-of-pocket cost: copays and coinsurance make therapy more affordable for many.
• Accessibility: affordable therapy allows for more consistent care over a longer period of time, increasing the chances of more sustainable progress.
• Deductible progress: Payments contribute to your annual deductible and out-of-pocket maximum.

Cons:

• Mandatory Diagnosis: to pay for sessions, insurers require a formal diagnosis, which enters into your permanent medical record.
• Limited Privacy: Insurance companies may audit, track, or review your treatment progress, reducing your confidentiality. 
• Coverage Constraints: Insurers may cap the number of sessions, limit treatment types, or deny coverage for treatment they do not deem “medically necessary.”

*If you wish to work with me and I do not accept your particular insurance, I do offer the option to receive a copy of the required documentation you need to seek reimbursement for your out-of-network benefits.  If you have any other questions on this, I would be happy to discuss this with you, and/or explain this further. 

Why shouldn’t I just use medication?

Medication alone cannot solve all issues. What medication does is treat the symptoms. Our work together is designed to explore the root of the issue, dig deep into your behavior and teach strategies that can help you accomplish your personal and/or relational goals.

Medication can be effective and is sometimes needed in conjunction with therapy.

How does it work? What do I have to do in sessions?

Because each person has different issues and goals for therapy, therapy will be different depending on the individual. I tailor my therapeutic approach to your specific needs.

How long will it take?

Unfortunately, this is not possible to say in a general FAQs page. Everyone’s circumstances are unique to them and the length of time therapy can take to allow you to accomplish your goals depends on your desire for personal development, your commitment, and the factors that are driving you to seek therapy in the first place.

I want to get the most out of therapy. What can I do to help?

I am so glad you are dedicated to getting the most out of your sessions. Your active participation and dedication is crucial to your success. After all, we only see each other for a session a week. It’s the work you do outside of our sessions that will really help you see your personal growth and development.