What types of people have counselors?
People from all walks of life work with counselors to help attain their goals. Counselors work with people in all areas of their life including relationships, career, finance, health and more. Working with a counselor is not limited to any type of person, but is best for those who want to take initiative in their own life. People who seek the help of a counselor are committed to a more fulfilled life and are willing to do the work needed to get there.
How will therapy help?
The results will vary depending on what brings you to a therapist. Getting a therapist to help you out professionally, help you make your current job more gratifying, gain better focus on managing your work, and market yourself more effectively. If your reasons are personal, you can find a therapist to help you improve your relationships, resolve ongoing negative behaviors, improve your overall health, and grow spirituality. With therapy you can live a more balanced and enhanced life.
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 help now and then. You already have some strengths that you’ve used before, that for whatever reason isn’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.
Some of the benefits available from therapy include:
- Developing new skills for handling stress and anxiety
- Modifying unhealthy behavior and long-standing patterns
- Attaining insight into personal patterns and behavior
- Increasing confidence, peace, vitality, and well-being
- Improving ways to manage anger, depression and moods
- Discovering new ways to solve problems
- Navigating life’s obstacles more effectively
- Improving listening and communication skills
- Enhancing the overall quality of life
What happens in a counseling session?
Each session is tailored to the client and will vary based on individual needs. In the beginning, we will discuss what you are committed to accomplishing through our work together and we will begin to create a plan to achieve your goals. Periodically, I will give you assignments to help direct your progress. We will work together to acknowledge obstacles, explore alternate perspectives and celebrate successes. With the conclusion of each session, we will revisit your goals and evaluate the next steps that are needed to achieve these results.
Do I really need a therapist, can't I just do it by myself?
Therapy can take you above and beyond your own personal limitations. More often than not, people try to achieve their greatest potential, but don’t even realize what stands in their way. A therapist can offer an unbiased and objective perspective and can help you realize your patterns and habits. Most people experience that they are more efficient when working with a therapist and that this provides the opportunity for them to better realize their potential. Therapy can make your dreams attainable and will give you support and encouragement along the way.
How long do people generally work with a counselor?
To experience the effectiveness of a counseling program, I suggest clients make an initial three-month commitment. At the end of the three months, we will evaluate progress and discuss options for continued counseling. Because counseling is fluid and not static - like life - holistic and continual treatment planning will be an ongoing and collaborative process.
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.
I want to get the most out of therapy. What can I do to help?
I am so glad you are dedicated to getting the most out of your sessions. Your active participation and dedication are crucial to your success. It’s the work you do outside of our sessions that will really help you see your personal growth and development.
My partner and I are having problems. Should we be in individual counseling or come together?
If you are concerned about your relationship, and you would both like to work with me, I would initially work with both of you together. After this work, if one of you would like to continue in individual sessions, I could work with only one of you. It is not helpful to move from individual into couple’s work with the same therapist because of potential trust issues.
Is counseling confidential?
What we discuss will be held in confidence and not shared with others. I am bound by HIPPA and the ACA to keep what is discussed in our sessions confidential.
What is your cancellation policy?
If you fail to show up for your scheduled appointment and haven't notified me directly at least 24 hours in advance, you will be required to pay the full fee, regardless of your negotiated rate.
Do You Accept Insurance?
Unfortunately, not at this time. We are private pay only. We do provide Superbill for out of network reimbursement requests.
What is your Payment Policy?
Payment is due at the time of service. We accept cash, local checks and major Credit Cards. A $50-dollar fee will be assessed on all return payments. Two or more returned payments will require the posting of a retainer in order to continue services.
How do I get started?
That’s easy! Call us at 239-390-1120.
