Question 1

Why do people go to therapy and how do I know if it is right for me?

Accepted Answer

People seek therapy for many different reasons. Some are navigating major life transitions such as unemployment, divorce, a new job, or relationship changes. Others need support managing issues like anxiety, depression, stress, addictions, low self-esteem, grief, or relationship struggles. Therapy can also help individuals who want to better understand themselves, improve their relationships, or become more effective in reaching personal goals.

Question 2

How many sessions will we need?

Accepted Answer

The number of sessions varies depending on each individual or couple’s needs and goals. Some clients benefit from short-term therapy while others continue longer for deeper healing and personal development. Your therapist will discuss recommendations after the initial assessment session.

Question 3

Do you take insurance, and how does that work?

Accepted Answer

To determine your mental health coverage, contact your insurance provider directly and ask about your therapy benefits.

Helpful questions to ask:
- What are my mental health benefits?
- What is the coverage amount per session?
- How many therapy sessions are covered?
- Do you cover out-of-network providers?
- Will I be reimbursed for private-pay sessions?
- Is a referral or approval required from my primary care physician?

Question 4

What is the difference between counseling and consulting?

Accepted Answer

Counseling is provided by licensed professionals trained to help clients work through emotional and mental health concerns such as anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, or anger. Counseling often explores past experiences and emotional patterns to promote long-term healing.

Consulting is generally future-focused and centered around goals, strategy, accountability, and personal development without deeply exploring emotional root causes.

Question 5

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

Accepted Answer

Everyone goes through challenging situations in life, and while you may have successfully navigated through other difficulties you've faced, there's nothing wrong with seeking out extra support when you need it. Therapy is for people who have enough self-awareness to realize they need a helping hand and are ready to make positive changes. Therapy provides long-lasting benefits and support, giving you the tools needed to avoid triggers, redirect damaging patterns, and overcome life’s challenges.

Question 6

How can therapy help me?

Accepted Answer

A number of benefits are available 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, stress management, body image issues and creative blocks. Many people also find that counselors can be a tremendous asset to managing personal growth, interpersonal relationships, family concerns, marriage issues, and the hassles of daily life. Therapists can provide a fresh perspective on a difficult problem or point you in the direction of a solution. The benefits you obtain from therapy depend on how well you use 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
- 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 in your family or marriage
- Improving your self-esteem and boosting self-confidence

Question 7

What should I expect in the session?

Accepted Answer

The first session is typically an assessment session where the therapist gathers information about concerns, relationship dynamics, goals, and areas needing improvement. Together, realistic goals are created to help move toward healing and progress.

Question 8

Does what we talk about in therapy remain confidential?

Accepted Answer

Confidentiality is one of the most important parts of the therapeutic relationship. Information discussed during sessions remains private and protected by law. Therapists will provide informed consent documents explaining confidentiality policies.

Exceptions to confidentiality may include:
- Suspected abuse or neglect of children, elders, or vulnerable adults
- Situations where a client may pose serious harm to themselves or others
- Written permission provided by the client to share information with another healthcare provider or authorized individual

Question 9

What is therapy like?

Accepted Answer

Therapy is different for everyone because each person has unique goals and challenges. In general, sessions involve discussing current life events, personal history related to your concerns, and progress since the previous session. Therapy may be short-term for a specific issue or longer-term for deeper personal growth and healing.

Regular participation and openness are important for success. Your therapist may also recommend activities outside of sessions such as journaling, reading, practicing coping skills, or taking steps toward personal goals.

Question 10

Does the therapist choose sides during therapy?

Accepted Answer

No. Couples therapy is designed to help both individuals communicate more effectively, work through challenges, and develop healthier relationship patterns together. The therapist’s role is to remain neutral and help both individuals find common ground.

Question 11

What if I want therapy and my spouse does not?

Accepted Answer

Individual therapy can still be extremely beneficial, even if your spouse is not ready to participate. Working on your own healing and communication skills may positively influence the relationship and encourage growth together over time. Therapy should never be forced on anyone.

Question 12

How many sessions will we need?

Accepted Answer

The number of sessions is determined during the first initial session. If additional sessions are needed, the therapist and the couple will discuss during a session.
Some individual sessions may need to be scheduled to help one spouse work on individual issues that are inflicted upon the relationship.

Frequently asked questions

Why do people go to therapy and how do I know if it is right for me?

How many sessions will we need?

Do you take insurance, and how does that work?

What is the difference between counseling and consulting?

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

How can therapy help me?

What should I expect in the session?

Does what we talk about in therapy remain confidential?

What is therapy like?

Does the therapist choose sides during therapy?

What if I want therapy and my spouse does not?

How many sessions will we need?