COUNSELING FAQs

What method of counseling is primarily used?

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is one of the main types of treatment implemented. It helps you alter behavior and changes how you think and behave. An individual and possibly eclectic approach will be utilized to help arm you against the challenges you have been facing or fear.

Counseling Vs. Therapy?

Counseling generally describes treatment around short-term challenges, and therapy might reflect longer-term treatment evaluating your deeper history.

Do I need insurance?

Cash/credit is accepted if you do not have insurance. I can provide a receipt for you to send in for possible reimbursement (if applicable) to your plan if I am out of network for you.

How long will I be in treatment?

Each person has different needs. Some will feel better and want to try to manage on their own after a few sessions and others will need longer-term treatment. An assessment is conducted in an initial session so there will be an estimate of time needed for treatment that can be altered as you progress.

Will I need medication?

Again, each person has different needs. In most instances treatment can be completed without medication. This may depend on how you progress as well. This provider is not a medication provider, and if medication is needed another professional will be located for this in conjunction with our treatment.

What if I feel this is not a good fit?

You may not see the benefits of treatment until you are no longer in treatment, but if you feel that we are not a good match you will receive a referral to another provider. Keep in mind that past attachments to primary caregivers and others can affect how you relate to your treatment provider or team. We can work through many of these issues, as these past dynamics tend to impact your relationships with others as well regardless of the type of connection you have with them. It can be a boss, friend, family member…or others.

Who might be involved in my care?

You can involve anyone that you wish in your treatment, and this provider may suggest other professionals that you should connect with such as nutritionists and other various specialists. We will discuss your self-care and plans for how you might become healthier mentally and physically. This is an area where other professionals or avenues may be explored (exercise and/or other holistic and natural aspects of self-care for example). We will review together all the areas of your life and see where you can make the most positive changes.

Will I receive a diagnosis?

If you are appropriate to see this provider and require mental health assistance you will have a diagnosis, which insurance companies mandate to cover treatment, and which treatment plans are completed around. Many people say they never previously received a diagnosis, but your provider usually had to add one in to have it covered unless it was under an EAP, and even then at least a general category is usually required.

Who gets my information?

Your insurance company has access to your diagnosis and can request further information to justify treatment. This is more fully explained in the Informed Consent Form you complete before you engage in treatment.

How long are sessions and do I need weekly treatment?

The initial session is at least an hour and consecutive sessions can be around 30-45 minutes. Initially treatment is usually weekly and then becomes less frequent as time passes until treatment completion and you are able to implement the tools you have learned independently.