
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How can therapy help me?
Therapy offers valuable support, practical problem-solving, and effective coping strategies for challenges like depression, anxiety, relationship issues, grief, and stress. Through personalized guidance, therapists help you gain insight, develop skills, and work toward meaningful change in personal growth, relationships, and daily life stressors. With commitment to the process, therapy can empower you to build stronger relationships, develop healthier coping methods, enhance self-esteem, and achieve a deeper understanding of yourself, your goals, and your values.
What is therapy like?
Therapy is a tailored experience unique to each person’s goals and needs. In your sessions, we’ll focus on current events, relevant personal history, and progress toward your goals. Therapy often involves weekly meetings to ensure consistent progress, whether short-term for specific issues or longer-term for deeper personal growth.
Active participation is key to meaningful change, as therapy’s purpose is to help you integrate insights and strategies into your daily life. Your therapist may suggest supportive actions outside of sessions—like journaling, reading, or setting personal goals—to enrich your journey. Therapy empowers those ready for positive change, new perspectives, and a proactive approach to life.
Is what we talk about in therapy confidential?
Confidentiality is a cornerstone of the client-therapist relationship, fostering trust in discussions about sensitive matters. Therapists are required to provide a written Confidential Disclosure Agreement, ensuring that what you share in sessions remains private, a process known as "Informed Consent."
While your therapist cannot share information without your written permission, there may be instances where sharing details with your healthcare team (e.g., physician, naturopath, attorney) is beneficial.
However, state law and professional ethics mandate that confidentiality be maintained except in specific situations, such as:
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Suspected abuse or neglect of children, adults, or elders, must be reported to authorities.
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Situations where there is a serious risk of harm to yourself or others.
Your trust is paramount, and we are committed to upholding these ethical standards in our work together.
What If I Don't Feel Comfortable With My Therapist?
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Reflect on the discomfort – Identify what’s bothering you (e.g., communication style, feeling unheard).
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Share your concerns – Talk openly with your therapist; they may adjust their approach.
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Assess the fit – If discomfort persists or you feel unsafe, it may not be the right match.
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Trust your instincts – Therapy should feel supportive and non-judgmental.
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Explore alternatives – Research and consider switching to a therapist who better suits your needs.
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End the relationship if necessary – Politely let your therapist know you’re moving on, or simply stop scheduling sessions.
You deserve a therapist who makes you feel safe, respected, and supported.
Do I really need therapy?
Seeking support shows strength and self-awareness, and choosing therapy is a powerful step toward change. By accepting where you are and committing to growth, you’re taking responsibility for a better future. Therapy provides tools to manage triggers, break harmful patterns, and navigate life’s challenges, fostering lasting growth and resilience.
What about medication vs. psychotherapy?
True, lasting relief from mental and emotional pain requires more than medication alone. Therapy works to uncover the root causes of distress, helping to change behavior patterns and foster sustainable growth. An integrative approach, combining therapy and medication, can be an effective option. However, active participation is essential, as therapy’s purpose is to equip you with insights and skills to improve daily life. This may include activities beyond sessions—like journaling, reflecting, or acting on your goals. Those who commit to the process are ready to make positive changes, embrace new perspectives, and take responsibility for their journey.
What You Can Expect In Your Session
In your first session, your therapist will get to know you, discuss your concerns, and work with you to set goals for treatment.
Therapy sessions typically last 45-60 minutes. The duration of treatment depends on your goals and the complexity of the issues you're addressing.
Therapy sessions can be made online as Telehealth Sessions or in person at one of our locations.
Sessions are typically weekly or biweekly, but this varies based on your goals, progress, and ability to pay or insurance coverage.
Why do people go to therapy and how do I know if it is right for me?
People seek psychotherapy for many reasons—navigating life transitions, managing stress, building self-esteem, overcoming addictions, or enhancing personal growth. Whether facing a challenging period or striving to reach new goals, therapy provides the encouragement and tools needed for meaningful change. It’s a powerful step toward self-discovery and a more empowered life.
Can i use my insurance?
To find out if your insurance covers mental health services, start by calling your insurance carrier. Be sure to ask detailed questions to clarify your coverage, such as:
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What are my mental health benefits?
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What is the coverage amount per therapy session?
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How many therapy sessions are included in my plan?
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What is the reimbursement for out-of-network providers?
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Is prior approval required from my primary care physician?
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Visit our Insurance Checklist to prepare before you call your provider.
Understanding your benefits is key to accessing the support you need.
What Do I Talk About In A therapy session?
You can talk about anything that feels important to you, whether it’s a big life issue or a small annoyance. Therapists are there to listen, help you unpack what’s on your mind, and work toward meaningful solutions or insights.
Topics include: your emotional well-being, personal challenges, relationships, trauma and past-experiences, self-identity and personal growth, behavioral patterns, coping and stress management, mental health symptoms, future planning, things that bother you, and celebrations and achievements.