How can therapy help me?
A number of benefits are available from participating in therapy. Therapists can provide support, problem-solving skills, and enhanced coping strategies for issues such as depression, anxiety, relationship troubles, symptoms of post traumatic stress, stress management and the feelings that occur with life changes related to medical conditions. Many people also find that counselors 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. The benefits you obtain from therapy depend on how well you use the process and put into practice what you learn. Some of the benefits available from therapy include:
- Attaining a better understanding of yourself, your goals and values
- Developing skills for improving your relationships
- Finding resolution to the issues or concerns that led you to seek therapy
- Learning new ways to cope with stress and anxiety
- Managing anger, grief, depression, and other emotional pressures
- Improving communications and listening skills
- Changing old behavior patterns and developing new ones
- Discovering new ways to solve problems in your family or marriage
- Improving your self-esteem and boosting self-confidence
- Feeling better about yourself
I can usually handle my problems, why is so difficult now?
Everyone goes through challenging situations in life, and while you may have successfully navigated through other difficulties you've faced, there's nothing wrong with seeking out extra support when you need it. In fact, therapy is for people who have enough self-awareness to realize they need a helping hand and can be resourceful, and that is something to be admired. You are taking responsibility by accepting where you're at in life and making a commitment to change the situation by seeking therapy. Therapy provides long-lasting benefits and support, giving you the tools you need to avoid triggers, re-direct damaging patterns, and overcome whatever challenges you face.
Why do people go to therapy and how do I know if it is right for me?
People have many different motivations for coming to psychotherapy. Some may be going through a major life change (employment, health issues, relationships, etc.), or are not handling stressful circumstances well. Some people need assistance managing a range of other issues such as low self-esteem, depression, anxiety or feeling overwhelmed. Therapy can help provide the skills to get through these periods. Others may be at a point where they are ready to learn more about themselves or want to be more effective with their goals in life. In short, people seeking psychotherapy are motivated to learn new ways to do and feel better in their lives.
What about medication vs. therapy?
It is well established that the long-term solution to mental and emotional problems and the pain they cause may not always be solved solely by medication. Therapy addresses the influences of our thinking, emotion and physiological changes that relate to our distress. You can best achieve sustainable growth and a greater sense of well-being with an integrative approach to wellness. Working with your medical doctor you can determine what's best for you. In some cases, a combination of medication and therapy is the right course of action. Very often as problems and issues are resolved, the need for medication is lessened or not needed at all. As your therapist, I will collaborate with your doctor as needed. Many people are not able to take medications or do not wish to use medications to address symptoms. In this case, therapy and behavioral strategies can be very helpful.
Do you take insurance, and how does that work?
While payment is required at time of visit and I do not accept insurance plans, you may have coverage based on your insurance policy. To determine if you have mental health coverage through your insurance carrier, the first thing you should do is call them. Check your coverage carefully and make sure you understand their answers. Some helpful questions you can ask them:
- What are my mental health or behavioral health benefits?
- What is the coverage amount per therapy session?
- How many therapy sessions does my plan cover?
- What information is required by my provider to determine benefits?
- What is my coverage for Biofeedback? Is a prescription from my MD needed?
Does what we talk about in therapy remain confidential?
Confidentiality is one of the most important components between a client and psychotherapist. Successful therapy requires a high degree of trust with highly sensitive subject matter that is usually not discussed anywhere but the therapist's office. Every therapist should provide a written copy of their confidential disclosure agreement, and you can expect that what you discuss in session will not be shared with anyone. This is called “Informed Consent”. Sometimes, however, you may want your therapist to share information or give an update to some of your other healthcare providers. You will receive a consent form to sign in order for any therapist to discuss your care.
However, state law and professional ethics require therapists to maintain confidentiality EXCEPT for the following situations:
* Suspected past or present abuse or neglect of children, adults, and elders to the authorities, including Child Protection and law enforcement, based on information provided by the client or collateral sources.
* If the therapist has reason to suspect the client is seriously in danger of harming him/herself or has threated to harm another person.
