How do I pay for counseling?
We require a credit, debit, HSA or FSA card on file. Your card is billed at the end of each week for the services you or your child receive.
For a number of reasons, we do not directly bill insurance. If you are considering using insurance to cover your services, please contact your provider directly to ask about out-of-network benefits and the possibility of reimbursement for services. Receipts are provided upon request. Visit our Rates + Insurance page for more information.
Counseling, insurance, and payment can be confusing. We are happy to answer any questions regarding getting counseling started for you or your child, feel free to contact us.
Is counseling confidential?
Absolutely. Not only is it our legal responsibility to maintain your confidentiality, but it is also a priority. We are a small town practice and understand that being in a small town, “everyone knows everyone” and there is a good chance of running into someone you know. Know your confidentiality is protected both in and outside of our office walls and that if you happen to run into your therapist while you’re out and about, we take your confidentiality very seriously and will not approach you or discuss your private matters in public. Please contact us with any questions.
How do I know if these are the right services for me or my child?
It’s important you feel comfortable with the therapist with whom you schedule and ensure they are the right fit for you. Finding a therapist you connect with and who can address your individual needs is a part of the therapeutic process. This is why we encourage you to complete a phone screening with our office to determine whether or not we have a therapist who can meet yours or your child’s needs.
If it appears your needs may be better met by a different therapist, agency, or practice, we may refer you to other local resources in the area.
What can I expect at my first appointment?
The first session is our initial assessment where we will complete and review the paperwork, discuss history, confidentiality, scheduling, and begin talking about the events that led you to seeking services. We also use this time to get you acquainted with our office (restroom, parking, coffee and beverages, and the office layout).
In the following sessions, we will continue to talk about the events that led you to services, explore your strengths and possible areas for improvement, discuss specific goals and identify the focus of treatment (also known as a Treatment Plan). The Treatment Plan will be used to help us set your objectives, measure your progress, and reach your goals.
Ultimately, our goal is to help get you to a place where you no longer need our services and have the tools you need to sustain your progress.
Do I check in with a receptionist when I get there?
We understand coming to your first appointment can be anxiety provoking. Please know there is currently no receptionist at our office. When you arrive, feel free to grab a coffee or beverage, have a seat in our Waiting Area and relax. Your therapist will come get you at the time of your scheduled appointment.
For pictures of our office and Waiting Area, please visit our Photo Gallery.
How long will it take?
After an assessment of your history, needs, and treatment plan, your therapist may provide a recommendation regarding length of treatment, either brief therapy (8-12 sessions) or long-term therapy. However, everyone’s circumstances are unique to them. The length of time therapy can take to allow you to accomplish your goals depends on your desire for personal development, your commitment, and the factors that are driving you to seek therapy in the first place.
I want to get the most out of therapy. What can I do to help?
In effort to maximize your services, it’s recommended you take what you learn in session, and use it outside of session. After all, we only see each other for one session a week. It is the work you do in between sessions that will really help you see your personal growth and development.
I’ve never talked to anyone. I’m used to handling things on my own. Aren’t people who go to therapy weak?
Not at all. People who ask for help know when they need it and have the ability to reach out. Everyone needs some outside perspective and guidance sometimes. You already have strengths you’ve used before, that for whatever reason aren’t working right now. Perhaps this problem feels overwhelming and is making it difficult to access your past strengths. In our work together, I’ll help you identify what those strengths are and how to implement them again in what is happening now.
What’s the difference between talking to you or my best friend or family?
The difference is between someone who can do something, and someone who has the training and experience to do that same thing professionally. A mental health professional can help you approach your situation in a new way– teach you new skills, gain different perspectives, listen to you without judgment or expectations, and help you listen to yourself. Furthermore, therapy is completely confidential. You won’t have to worry about others “knowing my business.” Lastly, if your situation provokes a great deal of negative emotion, if you’ve been confiding in a friend or family member, there is the risk that once you are feeling better you could start avoiding that person so you aren’t reminded of this difficult time in your life.
Why shouldn’t I just take medication?
Medication alone cannot solve all issues. What medication does is treat the symptoms. Our work together is designed to explore the root of the issue, dig deep into your behavior and teach strategies that can help you accomplish your personal and/or relational goals.
Medication can be effective and is sometimes needed in conjunction with therapy. If and when appropriate, your therapist may refer you back to your primary doctor to assess for medication.
How does it work? What do I have to do in sessions?
Because each person has different issues and goals for therapy, therapy will be different depending on the individual. We tailor our therapeutic approach to your specific needs. Common therapeutic interventions and treatment modalities may be found here.