How can therapy help me?
There are many benefits you get from therapy. Therapists can provide support, problem-solving skills, and enhanced coping strategies for issues such as depression, anxiety, relationship troubles, unresolved childhood issues, grief, stress management, body image issues, and creative blocks. Several people also discover that counselors can be a great help when it comes to managing personal growth, self-love, family concerns, marriage issues, and the hassles of daily life. They can provide a new angle on a difficult problem or direct you to a solution. The benefits you get 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:
- Achieving a better understanding of yourself, your goals and values
- Learning how to improve your relationships
- Resolving issues or concerns that led you to seek therapy
- Knowing how to cope with stress and anxiety
- Managing anger, grief, depression, and other emotional pressures
- Learning how to communicate well
- Developing new, positive behaviors
- Discovering new ways to solve problems in your family or marriage
- Improving your self-esteem and self-confidence
Do I really need therapy? I can usually handle my problems.
Why do people go to therapy and how do I know if it is right for me?
What is therapy like?
Everyone has different reasons as to why they seek therapy, thus the experience can vary from one person to another. Generally, it is expected that you and your therapist will discuss your history, current events, and progress in your life. The length of the therapy will also depend on your situation. It can be for short or long-term. However, it is also expected that you will have regular meetings with your therapist (weekly or every other week).
You must understand that you will get more results from therapy if you actively participate in the process. Its ultimate purpose is to help you bring what you learn in the sessions back into your everyday life. Therefore, your therapist may suggest some things you can do outside of therapy to support your process, such as reading a pertinent book, writing about specific topics, noting particular behaviors, or taking action on your goals. People seeking psychotherapy are ready to make positive changes in their lives, are open to new perspectives, and take responsibility for their lives.
What about medication vs. psychotherapy?
It is well-established that the long-term solution to mental and emotional problems and the pain they cause cannot be solved solely by medication. Instead of just treating the symptom, we work together to explore the cause of the issue, delve into your behavior, and teach tactics that can help you accomplish your personal and/or relational goals.
For some, medication can be effective and is sometimes needed in conjunction with therapy. In others, psychotherapy alone is enough to alleviate symptoms and restore optimal functioning. If additional support is needed, I will provide referrals to homeopaths and/or psychiatrists in the area to help you find the best fit for your needs.
I’ve never talked to anyone. I’m used to handling things on my own. Aren’t people who go to therapy weak?
What’s the difference between talking to you or my best friend or family?
How does it work? What do I have to do in sessions?
How long will it take?
Do you take insurance, and how does that work?
The first thing you should do to know whether your insurance covers mental health is to call your insurance provider. Check your coverage carefully, and ensure that you understand their answers. Some helpful questions you can ask them are as follows:
- What is the coverage amount per therapy session?
- What is my deductible and has it been met?
- What is the coverage amount per therapy session?
- How many therapy sessions per year does my health insurance cover?
- How much does my insurance pay for an out-of-network provider?
- Is approval required from my primary care physician?
Confidentiality and Privacy Policy
Confidentiality is important in the relationship between a therapist and patient. Successful therapy demands a high amount of trust, especially when topics that are not for the public are discussed. The law protects the relationship between client and therapist, so information cannot be disclosed without written permission.
However, there are times when you may want your therapist to dispense information or updates to your healthcare team, but as per law, he or she cannot release these details without your consent.
However, state law and professional ethics require therapists to maintain confidentiality except for the following situations:
- Suspected child, dependent adult or elder abuse; I am required by law to report to the appropriate authorities immediately.
- If a client is threatening serious bodily harm to another person(s), I must notify the police and inform the intended victim.
- If a client intends to harm themselves it is my responsibility to ensure their safety, including contacting family members and/or authorities.
- If I am court ordered by a judge to release information