Why seek therapy?
People begin therapy for many reasons. Some need help with
unexpected difficulties in their lives, while others seem to have
temperaments that are predisposed towards negative thoughts and feelings.
Friends and family can be helpful, but therapists are trained to teach new
problem-solving skills and to provide a different type of nonjudgmental
understanding and objective feedback. Many people also find that the
confidential nature of therapy helps them open up more fully.
What can I expect in a therapy session?
During sessions you will talk about concerns in your life
and relevant events in the last week. A typical session is 45 minutes. I
am very flexible, however, and many clients book longer sessions in order to
combine hypnosis with therapy, or to have extra time to sort through their
feelings. People usually come for weekly sessions in order to build
momentum, but if you are in crisis or extreme distress you may come
more frequently. During the time between sessions it is helpful to think
about and process the themes of the last session. I also tend to give
"homework" between sessions in order to help you accelerate change. Examples
of homework include reading a relevant chapter of a book, keeping
records of particular difficulties, trying out new communication
skills, participating in a new activity, or practicing relaxation.
What can I gain from working with a therapist?
Most obviously, therapy can help you get relief from your distress. Just knowing someone understands is often invaluable. The cognitive-behavioral type of therapy that I practice, also gives you direct feedback, and helps you learn new coping skills and reactions to life challenges. Some of the specific benefits available from therapy include:
- Finding more effective ways to cope with stress, depression and anxiety
- Attaining a better understanding of yourself and your personal goals and values
- Better managing of emotional pressures
- Improving communications skills - learn how to really "hear" others, and have others listen to you
- Getting "unstuck" from unhealthy patterns
- Discovering new ways to solve problems
- Improving your self-esteem and boosting self-confidence
Do you accept insurance? How does insurance work?
I work with many insurances as an out-of-network provider. This means you are
likely to have a deductable and weekly co-pays. The cost of my
services is often the same, or similar to those of in-network providers.
I am not directly on any panels because they reduce confidentiality and limit
my ability to practice in an individualized fashion.
For your convenience, we submit all paperwork to your insurance for
you even though we are out of network.
When you call, my staff will be happy check your benefits
so you know what to expect.
Is therapy confidential?
Yes. The law protects the confidentiality of all communications between a
client and a psychotherapist. Information is not disclosed without written
permission. There are only a few exceptions, which include suspected
child abuse, elder abuse, or danger of serious bodily harm to oneself or
others. These situations are extremely rare.
Feel free to contact me with any other questions you may have. Call or
email today to begin feeling relief.