Frequently Asked Questions
What Is Psychotherapy?
Psychotherapy is a collaborative treatment based on the relationship between an individual and a mental health professional. Grounded in dialogue, it provides a supportive environment that allows you to talk openly with someone who is objective, neutral and nonjudgmental. You will work together to identify and change the thought and behavior patterns that are keeping you from feeling your best. By the time you are done, you will not only have solved the problem that brought you in, but you will have learned new skills so you can better cope with future challenges.
DO YOU ACCEPT INSURANCE?
No, I do not accept insurance.
My fee for service is $200 for 45-50 minute individual sessions and $245 for 70 minute couples and family sessions.
I will use a sliding scale fee based upon need.
HOW MANY SESSIONS WILL I NEED?
Therapy really depends mainly on the issues being addressed and your desire to feel better. Other factors play a role, such as support from friends and family, stressors, intelligence, and amount of insight. Some presenting problems can take years to get to a resolution such as with victims of severe sexual or physical abuse, bipolar disorder, or some personality disorders. During treatment, however, presenting symptoms can wax and wane, so to speak, with periods of really good days, weeks, and months, and periods of not so good days. Treatment can also progress more stepwise, with small gains being made at a steady pace.
YOU ALSO DO GROUP THERAPY — WHAT IS IT?
The realization that others have very similar problems, issues, and experiences as you do can be comforting, normalizing, and validating. Group is an opportunity for feedback from peers about your situation, your thinking, about you, and how you come across to others. It is a place to get to know your Self better, and to learn and practice communication and intimacy/empathy skills. It is a safe place for self-exploration since all information is confidential and no contact or relationships are permitted by group members outside of Group.
WHAT ABOUT MEDICATION?
Therapy and medication are often used together for maximum benefit. There are some disorders where medications are almost always used, such as with schizophrenia and bipolar disorder (manic-depressive disorder). Those suffering from other symptoms, such as those related to depression and anxiety, can benefit from medication, even if it only serves as a temporary fix until the effects of therapy take hold. Medications typically work faster than therapy but once discontinued, the symptoms will return unless the underlying issues are resolved. Therapy is a slower process and results may not be felt as quickly, but it is a longer term solution for many mental health issues.
HOW DO I PREPARE FOR MY FIRST SESSION?
There is very little paperwork to complete during your first visit but it is recommended that you arrive 10 minutes early so that we can begin session punctually.
Check, cash, credit card, and Zelle payments are accepted.
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