How can therapy help me?

 

Therapy can serve a wide range of functions. For some, therapy serves as a way to decrease symptoms of depression, anxiety, or other mental health challenges. Other clients find therapy a helpful way to sort through relational conflict, grief and loss, stress, or other life challenges. In all cases, therapy is about making positive change.

 

What is therapy like?

 

Due to the individualized nature of therapy, it is impossible to say for certain what your experience of therapy will be. I aim to provide therapy that is collaborative and compassionate. No one knows you better than you do, and you deserve respect and understanding as we work toward a better future together. In terms of time commitment, sessions are typically 45 minutes long. In order to be most effective, sessions should take place regularly – every week or every other week.

 

Do you take insurance, and how does that work?

 

I accept several major health insurance plans, but cannot guarantee that services will be covered by your insurance company. To determine if you have mental health coverage through your insurance, you should contact your insurance carrier. Check your coverage carefully and make sure you understand the answers. Some helpful questions are listed below.

 

• What are my mental health benefits?

• Do I have a copay?

• Do I have a deductible, and have I reached it?

• How many therapy sessions does my plan cover?

• How much does my insurance pay for an out-of-network provider?

• Is pre-authorization required?

• Is approval required from my primary care physician?

 

What if insurance isn't an option?

 

Some services may not be covered by your insurance company, or you may not have insurance, or you may opt not to use insurance. In such instances, you may pay for services out of pocket. If you find you cannot afford the full session fee, reduced fees may be negotiable.

 

Does what we talk about in therapy remain confidential?

 

Yes! Confidentiality is an important component of therapy. What is said in the therapy room stays in the therapy room. This allows you the freedom to speak freely and move towards healing without fear of reprisal or adverse consequences. However, there are a few legal exceptions to confidentiality of which you should be aware. These exceptions are reviewed with you during the course of our first session.

 

What is marriage and family therapy? Why should I use a marriage and family therapist?

 

According to the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy (AAMFT), marriage and family therapy shifts the focus of treatment away from the traditional model toward a more holistic and strengths-based perspective. Marriage and family therapists (MFTs) are able to treat a wide range of mental health disorders and relational difficulties.

 

Research indicates that marriage and family therapy is equally as effective (and sometimes more effective) than individual treatment – almost 90% of clients report improvements in their emotional health. Clients are often highly satisfied with with the care they receive from MFTs, with over 98% of MFT clients reporting their therapy was good or excellent.

 

You can find more information regarding marriage and family therapy at the AAMFT website or by watching this video.

 

My question isn't listed here!

 

If you have any additional questions, please don’t hesitate to contact me, as I would be happy to address any concerns you may have. You can also try checking out PsychCentral’s list of myths and facts about therapy to see if your question is answered there.