Frequently Asked Questions
Do you take Insurance?
Most insurance companies will cover my services in part or in full if you have a PPO plan with out-of-network benefits. I am not a preferred provider for any specific HMO or PPO insurance plan. To determine if you have mental health coverage, call your insurance company. Some helpful questions to ask include:
Does your plan reimburse for out-of-network providers?
What is the coverage per session for an out-of-network provider?
Are there a limited number of sessions and/or dollar amount allowed per year?
What is your deductible?
Do you need pre-authorization for the first session?
The answers to these questions can help you figure out what your out-of-pocket expenses will be. I am happy to answer any questions to help you navigate this process.
Does What We Talk About in Therapy Remain Confidential?
Yes! Confidentiality is an essential component of the therapeutic relationship. Knowing and trusting that anything you say will be kept private is an absolute necessity for therapy to be effective and for individuals to be able to open up and reveal highly sensitive material. There are certain circumstances that require an exception to confidentiality. These are highly unusual situations and are addressed at the onset of treatment.
How Can Therapy Help Me?
The benefits of therapy include:
Developing a better understanding of yourself, your goals and your values
Learning new coping mechanisms
Improving communication and listening skills to enhance your relationships
Identifying and changing old behavior patterns
Improving your self-esteem
Obtaining on-going support from someone who is committed to helping you achieve your full potential
How do I know if I need therapy?
Sometimes life's challenges can become overwhelming. We can feel stuck and unable to move forward, are unhappy in our relationships, or the physical symptoms of anxiety or depression can become painful or debilitating. These are some of the reasons people seek psychotherapy. Even though advice from friends can be useful and sometimes just talking to them can provide relief, there are long lasting benefits from the therapeutic process. Therapy gives you the tools you need to develop insight into troubling behavior patterns, and options to redirect them so that you can overcome whatever challenges are ahead of you.
How Long Does Therapy Take?
The length of time and frequency of sessions depends upon the depth and intensity of the experience. Support for a current life crisis can be a short-term process; whereas the pursuit of continuing self-growth, or the uncovering of deeper issues, can require a longer term commitment.
What about Medication?
Sometimes the benefits of therapy are augmented by the prescription of medication to help manage severe anxiety, depression or other mood disorders. While medication offers relief from symptoms, psychotherapy addresses the causes of the emotional pain and the behavior patterns that impede progress. The decision to include medication as part of your treatment is a joint one between you, me and your psychiatrist. Every situation is unique, and the inclusion and duration of medication in your treatment will be considered individually.