Why do people seek therapy?
People come into therapy for many reasons. Some need to respond to unexpected changes in their lives, while other seek self-exploration and personal growth. When coping skills are overwhelmed by guilt, doubt, anxiety or despair, therapy can help. Therapy can provide support, problem-solving skills and enhanced coping for such issues as depression, addiction, anxiety, lack of confidence, relationship troubles, unresolved childhood issues, bereavement, spiritual conflicts, stress management, body image issues, and creative blocks. People seeking psychotherapy are frequently seeking to take responsibility for their actions, work towards self-change and create greater awareness in their lives.
What can I expect in our therapy session?
During sessions you will have the opportunity to talk about the primary concerns and issues in your life. A session lasts 50 minutes, but some people request longer sessions. Most clients choose to see me on a weekly basis. Sometimes individuals or couples in crisis or extreme distress may need more than one session per week until the crisis passes. Depending on the severity of the crisis, I may make myself available via telephone or Skype on an as-needed basis. In between sessions, I encourage clients to reflect on what was discussed and experienced. You may be asked to read a relevant book or lecture, keep records or do a few simple exercises. For your therapy to really work for you, you need to be an active participant, both in and outside of your therapy sessions. Body Psychotherapy techniques may, with the client’s consent, be incorporated into the therapy.
What benefits can I expect from working with a therapist?
- 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.
- Finding new ways to cope with stress and anxiety.
- Managing anger, depression and other emotional pressures.
- Improving communication skills – learn how to listen to others and have others listen to you.
- Getting “unstuck” from unhealthy patterns – breaking old behaviors and developing new ones.
- Discovering new ways to solve problems.
- Improving your self-esteem and boosting self-confidence.
- Experiencing a physical sensation of added energy and aliveness.
- Discovering or enhancing your spiritual life.
- Re-awakening love and passion in your relationship.
What if I don’t know what my goals are for therapy?
If you aren’t sure what your goals are for therapy, our 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. However, 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. The first thing you should do is check with your insurance carrier. Check your coverage carefully and find the answers to the following questions:
- Do I have mental health benefits?
- What is my deductible and has it been met?
- How many sessions per calendar year does my plan cover?
- How much do I pay for an out-of-network provider?
- Is there a limitation on how much I can pay per session?
- Is primary care physician approval required?
Is therapy confidential?
In general, the law protects the confidentiality of all communications between a client and psychotherapist. Information us not disclosed without written permission. However there are a number of exceptions to this rule. Exceptions include:
- Suspected child abuse or dependant adult or elder abuse. The therapist is required bylaw to report this to the appropriate authorities immediately.
- If the client is threatening serious bodily harm to another person or persons. The therapist must notify the police and inform the intended victim.
- If a client intends to harm him or herself. The therapist will make every effort to enlist a client’s cooperation in insuring their safety. If they do not cooperate, further measures may be taken without their permission in order to ensure their safety.