Question 1

Is therapy right for me?

Accepted Answer

Seeking out therapy is an individual choice. There are many reasons why people choose to have therapy. Sometimes they want to deal with long-standing psychological issues, or problems with anxiety or depression. Other times it’s in response to unexpected life changes, such as a divorce or work transitions.
 
Many seek the advice and counsel as they pursue personal exploration and growth. Working with a therapist can help provide insight, support, and new strategies for all types of life challenges. Therapy can help address many types of issues including depression, anxiety, body-image issues, conflict, grief, stress management and general life transitions. 
 
Therapy is right for anyone who is interested in getting more out of life by taking responsibility, creating greater self-awareness, and working towards change.

Question 2

I can usually handle my problems. Do I really need therapy?

Accepted Answer

Everyone goes through challenging situations in life, and while you may have successfully navigated many difficulties you’ve faced, there’s nothing wrong with seeking out extra support when you need it. Having enough self-awareness to realize when you need a helping hand, is to be admired. 
 
By taking responsibility and accepting where you’re at in life, you’re making a commitment to change the situation by seeking therapy. Therapy provides long-lasting benefits and support, giving you the tools, you need to avoid triggers, re-direct damaging patterns, and overcome the challenges you face.

Question 3

What is therapy like?

Accepted Answer

Every therapy session is unique and caters to an individual and their specific goals. It is standard for therapists to discuss the primary issues and concerns in your life during therapy sessions. It is common to schedule a series of weekly sessions, where each session lasts around fifty minutes. 
 
Therapy can be short-term, focusing on a specific issue, or longer-term, addressing more complex issues or ongoing personal growth. There may be times when you are asked to take certain actions outside of the therapy sessions, such as reading a relevant book or keeping records to track certain behaviors. It is important to process what has been discussed and integrate it into your life between sessions. 
 
For therapy to be most effective you must be an active participant, both during and between the sessions. People seeking psychotherapy are willing to take responsibility for their actions, work towards self-change and create greater awareness in their lives.
 
Here are some things you can expect out of therapy:
 
Real strategies for enacting positive change
Self-compassion, respect and understanding
Perspectives to illuminate negative patterns & feelings
Effective and proven techniques along with practical guidance

Question 4

How will therapy help me?

Accepted Answer

Several benefits can emerge from participating in psychotherapy. Therapists can provide support, problem-solving skills, and enhanced coping strategies for issues such as depression, anxiety, eating disorders, relationship troubles, unresolved childhood issues, grief, stress management, body image issues and creative blocks.
 
Many people also find that counselors can be tremendously helpful in managing personal growth, interpersonal relationships, family concerns, marriage issues, and the hassles of daily life. Therapists can provide a fresh perspective on difficult problems or point you in the direction of a solution. The help you obtain from therapy depends on how well you use the process and practice what you learn.
 
Some of the benefits can include:
 
Attaining a better understanding of yourself, your goals and values
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
Better management of powerful emotions such as anger, grief and depression
Improving communications and listening skills
Changing old behavior patterns and developing new ones
Discovering new ways to solve problems in your family or marriage
Improving your self-esteem and boosting self-confidence

Question 5

What is the first step to starting therapy?

Accepted Answer

Book an initial session if you feel you have enough information to comfortably get started with therapy. After booking the initial session you will be contacted to confirm the appointment. Once confirmed, you will receive initial paperwork and consent forms to review and complete before you meet with your therapist.

Question 6

What to expect for first timers

Accepted Answer

Starting therapy can feel very scary. Congratulations on taking the first step! Know that the hardest part of initiating therapy is to show up. The anxiety that one feels prior to starting therapy is normal. The first conversation is mainly a getting to know session, understanding what brought you to therapy and what your desires are. The rest of it based on you and what you would like accomplish.

Question 7

How long does each therapy session take?

Accepted Answer

A typical psychotherapy session is scheduled for 50 minutes. If you arrive late to your scheduled appointment you will miss some of your session time. You and your therapist will discuss if your needs and concerns require more or less time than what is typically scheduled.

Question 8

What is the frequency of sessions?

Accepted Answer

Sessions can occur on several different bases and are catered to the needs of the client. Weeky, bi weekly and as needed sessions are offered.

Question 9

Do you bill my insurance?

Accepted Answer

No insurance is being taken. Private Pay only. This ensures that your privacy is held and nothing that is discussed is on your medical record.

Question 10

What are your rates? Are they fixed and/or do you have a sliding scale?

Accepted Answer

Intake Session: $125
Follow up sessions: $75
 
It is understood that people sometimes face financial hardships. If this is the case for you, we have a limited number of slots available for an income-based sliding scale rate. This rate is available on a first come first serve basis and may be limited to a certain number of sessions. If this option is not available at the time you request services, feel free to ask for a referral list of free or low cost counseling services.

Question 11

Can I book online?

Accepted Answer

Yes! All appointments can be booked online. If you would like to schedule your appointment, please click here.

Question 12

Can I cancel my appointment?

Accepted Answer

Since the scheduling of an appointment involves the reservation of time set aside especially for you, a minimum of 24 hours notice is required for rescheduling or cancellation of an appointment. If for any reason a session is canceled less than 24 hours prior, the full fee will be charged.

Frequently asked questions