Frequently Asked Questions
FAQs
How can therapy help me?
There are many benefits from participating in therapy. Therapists can provide support, problem-solving skills, and enhanced coping strategies for issues such as depression, anxiety, relationship troubles, unresolved childhood issues, grief and stress management. Many people also find that counselors can be help when it comes to managing personal growth, interpersonal relationships, family concerns, and the troubles of daily life. Therapists can provide a fresh perspective on a difficult problem or assist you in developing a solution. The benefits you obtain from therapy depend on how well you engage in the process and put into practice what you learn. Some of the benefits available from therapy include:
Attaining a better understanding of yourself, your goals and values
Gaining knowledge and tools for managing chronic pain, illness, depression, and anxiety
Developing skills for improving your relationships
Finding resolution to the issues or concerns that led you to seek therapy
Learning new ways to cope with stress and anxiety
Managing anger, grief, depression, and other emotional pressures
Improving communication and listening skills
Changing old behavior patterns and developing new ones
Discovering new ways to solve problems that may come up in your life
Improving your self-esteem and boosting self-confidence
Do you prescribe medication?
I do not prescribe any medications. Psychotropic medication is prescribed by Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners, the designations are MD and ARNP respectively. I am familiar with medications but not able to give guidance or tell another practitioner what to prescribe to you. We often communicate with and refer clients to medication prescribers if you request us to do so in order to help them better help you.
How long does each therapy session take?
Ideally, a session can take up to anywhere between 45 minutes to an hour depending on the individual.
Will what we talk about stay between us?
In general, the law protects the confidentiality of all communications between a client and psychotherapist. No information is disclosed without prior written permission from the client.
However, there are some exceptions required by law to this rule. Exceptions include:
Suspected child abuse or dependent adult or elder abuse. The therapist is required to report this to the appropriate authorities immediately.
If a client is threatening serious bodily harm to another person. The therapist is required to notify the police.
If a client intends to harm himself or herself. The therapist will make every effort to work with the individual to ensure their safety. However, if an individual does not cooperate, additional measures may need to be taken.
What is a sliding scale?
A sliding scale determines the amount a client is responsible to pay may be directly related to an income number or it may be relative to a person’s income as it compares to the Federal Poverty Level (FPL). For example, if a therapist typically charges $150 per hour, those who have an income at or below 100 percent of the FPL may pay a minimum fee that the therapist has determined. Those who have an income above the FPL may pay incrementally more based on what percentage rate their income falls.