What is counseling?

 

Counseling is a little bit different for each individual, and we will discuss what success will look like for you in our work together. We will meet either one or two times a week, depending on your needs, and discuss current difficulties in your life, your personal history as it relevant to your current issue, and we will discuss insights gained as we progress. Depending on your needs, the length of therapy can vary from short-term for a specific issue, or longer-term in order to tackle more persistent patterns or your desire for personal growth.

Another important part of counseling is confidentially. What we say and discuss in the room will stay between us. I will never judge or criticize your thoughts, feelings, or decisions. We will work together to create a safe space for you to express yourself fully knowing that what you say will not be discussed with others.

 

Why do people come to counseling?

 

There are a variety of reasons that people might seek counseling. There is sometimes a misconception that there has to be something “wrong” with you. On the contrary, one of the major benefits of counseling is self-exploration and a deeper understanding of your history and patterns so that you can lead a more fulfilling and happy life. As part of my strengths-based approach, I do not like to label people with disorders, but rather focus on building their skills and give them new tools with which they can handle their current struggles. Common reasons someone might seek therapy include: feelings of anxiety, low self-esteem, unemployment, changes in relationship status, feelings of depression or sadness, and wanting to feel more fulfilled personally or professionally. In short, people who seek counseling are interested in making changes in their lives and meeting their personal and professional goals.

 

I can generally handle my problems on my own, how can counseling help me?

Everyone goes through challenging situations at some point in their lives, and while you have successfully handled many situations in your life thus far, there is nothing wrong with reaching out for a bit of support and help. On the contrary, seeking support through counseling is a sign of strength and something to be admired because it means that you had the awareness and courage to ask for help. By seeking counseling, you are making a commitment to yourself to change a harmful situation, and taking an active role in achieving happiness. Counseling is about helping you build more resources and coping skills, and provides long-lasting benefits and gives you new tools and ways of thinking.

 

What is a typical session like? 

 

A typical session is 55 minutes in length  but the content will vary depending on you. We might talk about how you are feeling and what you have been thinking about. We might explore past experiences to help us shed light on your current struggles or focus more on the present situation depending on your needs. I will ask you some questions and help you make new connections and achieve lasting changes that will increase your feelings of happiness and satisfaction in your life. If you have more specific questions, please feel free to call or email me and I would be happy to answer them! 

 

There are a number of benefits that can be attained by participating in counseling. Some of these might include

·      Deeper understanding of yourself, and increased feelings of self-esteem and self-worth

·      Better understanding your values, goals and how to achieve them

·      Expanding and developing your tool kit of skills to improve your relationships and communication 

·      Learning new ways to cope with stress

·      Managing emotional pressures such as grief, anxiety and depression

 

Do you accept insurance? 

 

I have an "insurance friendly" practice.  What does this mean?  It means that while I am an out-of-network provider, I will be happy to provide you with detailed invoices that you can submit to your insurance company for subsequent reimbursement after each session. In my experience, I have found that it is often possible to receive moderate out-of-network reimbursement from your insurance company so long as you have a PPO or POS plan.  The reimbursement rates vary highly by plan, but you may receive up to 100% of your out-of-pocket costs back from your insurance company. In addition to supplying you with invoices, I am more than happy to help you navigate the insurance process by counseling you on appropriate questions to ask your insurance company regarding treatment and reimbursement. 

 

I suggest that all clients wanting to use their insurance benefits, contact their insurance companies about what their “out-of-network mental health benefit” is, so that you can make informed decisions. Some questions you may want to ask your insurance company to inform your decision are:

• What is my out-of-network mental health benefit?

• Do I need to meet a deductible to receive reimbursement for out-of-network mental health coverage?

• Does my insurance company provide a mental health claim form?

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Payment Information for Individual Psychotherapy 

Out-of-Network (self-pay):   My standard fee is $190 for a 55-minute session, which is payable by credit card, cash or check.  In addition, I have a sliding fee scale for clients who qualify.  This sliding scale is based on household income, number of persons in the household, and supplemental income.  I maintain several sliding scale time slots on my schedule per week.  My ability to offer a sliding scale to potential clients is based on meeting the above factors, as well as availability in the schedule.  Please contact me for more information if you are interested in exploring whether you qualify for the sliding scale.