Why do people seek therapy?

There are many reasons why people seek out therapy.  Sometimes people need to respond to unexpected changes in their lives.  Others decide that therapy will help when they are in a crisis. Therapy also offers the opportunity for self-exploration and personal growth.  When we are overwhelmed with stress, guilt, doubt, anxiety, depression or despair, therapy can provide support, compassion, with no judgment or criticism.  Therapy also offers additional problem-solving techniques, and enhances our capacity to cope more effectively.  People who seek psychotherapy may be struggling with depression, anxiety, lack of confidence, relationship issues, unresolved childhood issues, bereavement, stress management, and/or eating and body image disorders.  People seeking psychotherapy have the opportunity to understand themselves and their behaviors more fully. This allows for change and greater awareness 
 
What can I expect in a therapy session?

During therapy sessions you have the opportunity to express yourself about the primary concerns and issues in your life without judgment.  You can expect compassion and understanding.  Usually a session lasts 50 minutes.  Some people work better with more time and request longer sessions.  Weekly sessions are recommended.   Some people who are in crisis or extreme distress may need more than one session per week, at least until the crisis passes.  Other  people work better with two sessions per week to gain greater understanding of themselves.  During the time between sessions it can be helpful to journal your thoughts and feelings.  Some people enjoy reading a book that might touch on relevant topics that resonate with them. Therapy is based on trust, consistency, and dependability. With these elements present in therapy you can expect a safe caring place to learn and grow.  
 

 A number of benefits are available from participating in psychotherapy. It is a valuable experience to know that someone understands.  Therapy can provide a new and different perspective on a difficult life problem. These perspectives offers a different way in which you understand a possible solution.  Many people find therapy to be a tremendous asset to manage their personal growth, interpersonal relationships, family concerns, and the difficulties of daily life. People benefit from therapy as they experience a more fulfilled and positive attitude. Overall, people in therapy tend to have lower levels of anxiety, stress, decreased conflict and improved quality of life.  Some of the benefits available from therapy include:

• 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 brought you into therapy
• Find new ways to cope with stress and anxiety
• Manage anger, depression and other emotional pressures
• Improving your self-esteem and boosting self-confidence
• Improving communication skills--learn how to listen to others and have others listen to you
• Getting "unstuck" from unhealthy patterns--breaking old behaviors and develop new ones
• Discovering new ways to solve problems

Do you accept insurance? How does insurance work?

To determine if you have mental health coverage, the first thing you should do is check with your insurance carrier.  Find out what your "outpatient psychiatric benefits" are. Try to 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 does my plan cover for an out-of-network provider?
• What is the coverage amount per therapy session?
• Is approval required from my primary care physician?

 Is therapy confidential?

In general, the law protects the confidentiality of all communications between a client and a psychotherapist. Information is not disclosed without written permission. However, there are number of exceptions to this rule. Exceptions include:

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

• If a client is threatening serious bodily harm to another person/s. The therapist must notify the police and inform the intended victim.

• If a client intends to harm himself or herself. The therapist will make every effort to enlist their cooperation in insuring their safety. If they do not cooperate, further measures may be taken without their permission in order to ensure their safety.