Some Frequently asked questions regarding Psychotherapy include:
Q. What can I expect during our first meeting?
Q. What results can I expect? How long will it take?
Q. Do you accept insurance?
Q. How much does therapy cost?
Q. What kind of privacy and confidentiality will I have?
Q. What can I expect during our first meeting?
A. During our initial meeting, you and I will get to know one another. It is a time for you to speak freely about the issues that cause you to seek therapy, relevant parts of your background, and your goals for treatment. Toward the end of that session we will discuss my impressions, preliminary recommendations and a plan to complete the evaluation.
Q. What results can I expect? How long will it take?
A. The primary focus of our work together is to accomplish the goals we decide upon. The length of your treatment will vary depending on what you want and need. Treatment can consist of only a brief series of sessions focused on helping you address a specific issue; or it can be a longer-term commitment focused on a deeper understanding of yourself and accomplishing personal change. We will carefully discuss and consider your desired outcome and the length of time needed to achieve the results that you seek.
Q. Do you accept insurance?
A. I discontinued the direct relationships I had with insurance companies over ten years ago. The dollar value of mental health insurance reimbursements have steadily declined over the last couple of decades and no longer provide the support for therapy they once did. Additionally, they usually require detailed information about your symptoms, history, and treatment. Some policies provide reimbursement for what are called ‘out-of-network providers.’ If this is your situation, I will provide a statement that can be submitted to your insurance provider for reimbursement.
Q. How much does therapy cost?
A. My fees, commensurate with my training and experience, are discussed in the first session.
Q. What kind of privacy and confidentiality will I have?
A. I maintain strict privacy and confidentiality. You are protected by my professional code of ethics and by the law. All communications are privileged. The only time confidentiality becomes an issue is if you intend to harm yourself or another person(s).