What is therapy like?

Therapy provides a safe environment to share all your feelings. You will do most of the talking, and the therapist will ask questions to help you express your thoughts and feelings. The goal is that, as you identify your feelings and explore why you may feel the way you do, you and the therapist will gain clarity on your particular situation. The therapist may also teach you specific techniques and/or assign specific activities to help you overcome your presenting issue. Each counseling session is focused on you and what your needs are, so it is your responsibility to tell the therapist if there is something specific you do or do not want to work on in that session. 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. For therapy to be most effective you must be an active participant, both during and between the sessions.

How much do your services cost?

The cost of services varies depending on the service provided and the clinician offering them. Please email or call us for details. You may also use the form here to contact us. Payment for services may be made by credit card, HSA/FSA card, check or cash. Certain tax laws have created new programs that may help you pay for your therapy, including Medical Savings Accounts and Pre-Tax Flexible Spending Medical Accounts. You can also deduct the cost of therapy from your taxes if you itemize. It is a medical expense. Ask your Accountant or Compensation and Benefits Administrator if you qualify for either program. Generally our services are “private pay” and our providers considered “Out of Network” for insurance companies. If your insurance plan offers Out of Network benefits for mental health care, it may be possible to submit a request for partial reimbursement of the fees you pay for therapy. If you are interested in this possibility, we are happy to provide you with the necessary form for submission; please check with your insurance company to determine what benefits are available to you. Coaching services, support groups, and workshops are not covered by insurance companies.

Good Faith Estimate

Under the Federal “No Surprises” Act, health care providers need to give patients who don’t have insurance or who are not using insurance an estimate of the bill for medical items and services. You have the right to receive a “Good Faith Estimate” of the total expected cost of any non-emergency healthcare services, including psychotherapy services. You can ask your health care provider, and any other provider you choose, for a Good Faith Estimate before you schedule a service. If you receive a bill that is at least $400 more than your Good Faith Estimate, you can dispute the bill. Make sure to save a copy or picture of your Good Faith Estimate. For questions or more information about your right to a Good Faith Estimate, visit www.cms.gov/nosurprises.

How long will it take for me to feel better?

In therapy, there are times when people feel worse before they feel better. This is often because people are talking about things they don’t usually talk about and this can feel uncomfortable at times. Other people feel better immediately because talking in itself causes relief to their difficult feelings. It is important for you to be open with your therapist about how you are feeling so they can help you work through these feelings, especially if you are uncomfortable.

Is therapy worth it?

The benefits obtained from therapy depend on how you use the process and put into practice what you learn. Many 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 therapists 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.

Is what I say confidential?

Yes. All client-therapist conversations are private and confidential. It is also confidential information that a person is meeting with a therapists. No information is disclosed without prior written permission from the client. Only in rare exceptions, when the safety of someone is at risk, can disclosure of confidential client-therapist information take place and is required by law. Exceptions include:

  • Suspected child abuse or dependent adult or elder abuse. The therapist is required to report this to the appropriate authorities immediately.

  • If a client is threatening serious bodily harm to another person. The therapist is required to notify the police.

  • If a client intends to harm himself or herself. The therapist will make every effort to work with the individual to ensure their safety. However, if an individual does not cooperate, additional measures may need to be taken.

Have more questions?

If you have more questions or would like to set up an appointment, click the link below to connect with a therapist.