Psychotherapy Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Even though you’ve been looking through my website, there still may be some questions you may have. Here are some questions I have been asked that may not have been covered in other areas of my website.
- This is the first time I am considering counseling. How will I know you can help me?
It may take a session or two for you to really know the answer to this question. When you call me you can ask me some questions or tell me a little about yourself and you can see if you’re comfortable talking to me. If you decide to make an appointment, the first several sessions should help you to decide if we are a good fit and you think we could work well together. - What can I expect from therapy?
You can expect me to provide a safe therapeutic space with empathy and, at times, humor. People tend to find me easy to talk to and feel respected and cared about. I combine my ability to listen with active dialogue to fully explore the issues you have so that you can find happiness and personal growth.Starting from the time we meet in the waiting room we begin the process of getting to know each other. You may have some more questions and we’ll start with me answering them. You can tell me why you came to therapy and we’ll just talk. I’ll have lots of question to ask you so that I can get a sense of what you need. Then we’ll see what you’d like to get from therapy to accomplish your goals.
- What about confidentiality?
Confidentiality is the fundamental building block of the therapeutic relationship. It is the only way there can be trust. It may be helpful for you to know that your confidentiality is protected by state law and the rules of my license. What we talk about in therapy is kept strictly confidential and will not be disclosed without your written consent. Exceptions are if you are in imminent danger of harming yourself or someone else and in any situation in which a child, dependent adult or elderly person is put at risk of abuse or neglect. - I haven’t found my particular problem mentioned in your website but I think I might like working with you anyway. Should I call you?
Please give me a call and we’ll talk about it. If you feel I am not the right person for you, I’d be happy to refer you to a therapist who I think can help you. - How frequent are therapy sessions?
I see most of my clients once a week. In certain circumstances some clients come more frequently or less frequently. - How long does each session last?
Usually an individual session lasts for 45 minutes and a couples session lasts one hour or one and one half hours depending on the needs of the couple. Groups last for one and one half hours. - What are your fees and what is your cancellation policy?
My fees are determined on an individual basis. I take cash or checks and most people pay each time they come. I need you to cancel your appointment at least 24 hours before the scheduled session or I will need to charge you. - When do you see clients?
I see clients weekday mornings, afternoons and some evenings. I also have some weekend times available. - Do you accept insurance and how does insurance work?
I choose, for a number of reasons, to not to be in-network with any insurance companies, but as a Licensed Mental Health Counselor I am eligible for out-of- network benefits for most insurances, if your plan has those benefits.The following are some questions to ask your insurance company:
- Do I have out-of-network mental health benefits?
- What is my deductable for out of network benefits?
- What percentage of the fee is reimbursable and what is the reasonable and customary rate?
- When does my calendar year start?
- Are you accepting new clients at this time?
Yes. I am currently accepting new clients. - What if I have additional questions?
Please feel free to call me or email and I will be happy to answer any questions you may have.