common questions

How can therapy help me?

A number of benefits are available from participating in therapy. 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.

• 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

Do I really need therapy?  I can usually handle my problems.

Everyone goes through challenging situations in life, and while you may have successfully navigated through other difficulties you’ve faced, there are some challenges that are difficult to overcome. In fact, it is a strength for someone to have enough “self-awareness” to realize when they need help and to know how to ask for it.

Why do people go to therapy and how do I know if it is right for me?

People have many different motivations for coming to psychotherapy.   Some may be going through a major life transition (unemployment, divorce, new job, etc.), or are not handling stressful circumstances well.  Some people need assistance managing a range of other issues such as low self-esteem, depression, anxiety, addictions, relationship problems, spiritual conflicts and creative blocks.

What is therapy like?

Therapy normally begins with a thorough assessment of presenting issues and concerns as well as general wellness.  The therapist will then work collaboratively with the client to develop treatment goals and develop a plan of action to address these concerns.  Throughout the therapy process, therapist and client will check in to monitor progress and tailor treatment to further reach client’s goals.

What about medication vs. psychotherapy?

As a psychologist, I am not able to prescribe medication.  If you’re interested in supplementing therapy with medication, I can refer you to a Psychiatrist in the area who can work with you to assess your needs.

Do you take insurance, and how does that work?

I am an “out-of-network” provider.  I do provide a “receipt of services” which you can submit to receive partial reimbursement for an out of network provider.  To determine if you have mental health coverage through your insurance carrier, the first thing you should do is call them.  Some helpful questions you can ask them:

• Is mentalhealth coverage provided?
• How much does my insurance pay for an out of network provider per therapy session?
• How many therapy sessions does my plan cover?

Does what we talk about in therapy remain confidential?

Confidentiality is one of the most important components between a client and psychotherapist. Successful therapy requires a high degree of trust with highly sensitive subject matter that is usually not discussed anywhere but the therapist’s office.   Every therapist should provide a written copy of their confidential disclosure agreement, and you can expect that what you discuss in session will not be shared with anyone.  This is called “Informed Consent”.  Sometimes, however, you may want your therapist to share information or give an update to someone on your healthcare team (your Physician, Psychiatrist, Family Member, etc), but by law your therapist cannot release this information without obtaining your written permission.