FAQs
I've always managed challenges on my own. Is seeking professional support a sign of weakness?
Absolutely not. Recognizing when you need support and taking courageous steps to seek it is a sign of strength and self-awareness. Everyone encounters moments in life when extra guidance can be beneficial. You possess inherent strengths that may simply be difficult to access or apply in your current situation. Our work together will focus on identifying these strengths and empowering you to utilize them effectively to navigate present challenges.
How is talking to a professional different from confiding in a friend or family member?
While friends and family offer valuable support, a mental health professional brings specialized training and expertise to the conversation. We provide a neutral, objective, and confidential space where you can explore your concerns without judgment or expectations. We can help you gain new perspectives, teach you practical coping skills, and guide you in understanding yourself more deeply. Unlike discussions with loved ones, therapy ensures complete privacy, freeing you from concerns about your personal matters becoming widely known. Furthermore, it eliminates the potential for future awkwardness or avoidance that can sometimes arise when sharing deeply personal struggles with those in your immediate circle.
Why should I consider therapy if medication is an option?
Medication can be a valuable tool for managing symptoms, and in some cases, it's an important part of a comprehensive treatment plan. However, medication alone often doesn't address the underlying causes of your concerns. Our collaborative work is designed to delve into the root of issues, explore behavioral patterns, and equip you with practical strategies to achieve your personal and relational goals. Therapy and medication can often be highly effective when used together.
How does therapy work? What can I expect during sessions?
Therapy is a highly personalized process. Because each individual brings unique concerns and goals, our approach will be tailored specifically to your needs. During sessions, you can expect a collaborative environment where we explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences. The specific activities and discussions will be guided by your individual situation and what will best support your progress.
How long will it take to see results?
The duration of therapy varies greatly from person to person. Your journey is unique, and the time it takes to achieve your goals depends on factors such as your specific challenges, your commitment to the process, and your desire for personal growth. We will regularly assess your progress and adjust our approach as needed.
I want to make the most of my therapy. What can I do to help?
Your active participation and dedication are key to a successful therapeutic experience. While our sessions provide a dedicated space for exploration and growth, the insights and strategies we discuss will be most impactful when you integrate them into your daily life. The work you do between sessions is crucial for fostering lasting personal development.
My partner and I are facing challenges. Should we pursue individual counseling or come together?
If your relationship is a primary concern and both partners are willing to engage, it's often beneficial to begin with couples counseling. This allows for a shared understanding of dynamics and collaborative problem-solving. If, after this initial work, one partner wishes to continue with individual sessions, we can discuss that possibility. To maintain trust and objectivity, it's generally not advisable to transition from individual therapy to couples therapy with the same therapist.
How do I find the right professional for me? How do I choose who to work with?
Finding a therapist who is a good fit is important. We encourage you to review our professional profile and client testimonials on our website. This provides insight into our experience, approach, and background. You are also welcome to contact us by phone or email to discuss any questions you may have. If, after an initial consultation, we determine that another professional might be a better fit for your specific needs, we can provide referrals.
What are your fees for services?
Please refer to the "Fees" section of our website for detailed information regarding our service costs.
What can I expect during my first session?
Prior to our initial meeting, you will typically provide completed paperwork through our secure, confidential platform. During the session, we will review this information to gain a deeper understanding of your background and your goals for therapy. Our primary aim is to create a safe, comfortable, and supportive environment where you can feel at ease sharing at your own pace. You will never be pressured to share beyond your comfort level.
How many sessions does therapy typically involve?
The number of sessions required varies depending on the complexity of the issues you're addressing. More intricate challenges may require a longer engagement. On average, clients may find benefit within 10-12 sessions, but this is a general guideline. You have the flexibility to decide when you feel ready to reduce the frequency of sessions or conclude therapy. Many clients find it beneficial to return for periodic "booster" sessions to maintain progress and accountability. You are always welcome to return at any time.
What if my spouse is hesitant to join me for counseling?
Even if your partner is reluctant to attend, you can still benefit significantly from individual counseling. You can discuss your concerns, evaluate potential courses of action, and develop strategies to improve your situation. Exploring your struggles can help you gain clarity, define a path forward, and develop skills that may positively impact all your relationships.
Is counseling confidential?
Confidentiality is a cornerstone of our practice and is maintained with the utmost care, with very few exceptions. The primary exceptions include: 1) situations where there is a clear and imminent danger to yourself or others; 2) reports of neglect, physical, or sexual abuse involving a minor; 3) disclosures of childhood sexual abuse; 4) instances of elder abuse; and 5) if compelled by a court order.
Will seeking therapy impact my security clearance?
It is unlikely to affect your security clearance unless confidentiality must be broken for the specific reasons outlined in the previous question (e.g., danger to self or others, mandated reporting). Initial security clearance applications typically do not require reporting of therapy unless it is related to violent behavior. We have experience collaborating with individuals in sensitive professions, including military personnel, law enforcement, federal employees, government contractors, pilots, and others, providing confidential services.
What do the letters after a clinician's name signify?
These designations indicate various levels of education, licensure, and specialized training. For example, "PhD" typically refers to a Doctor of Philosophy in a field like psychology, while "M.S." denotes a Master of Science in a specialty such as counseling. "LPC" stands for Licensed Professional Counselor. There are many other credentials that reflect a therapist's qualifications and areas of expertise.
How can I encourage someone else to seek professional support?
There are several ways to encourage others to consider counseling. You might share your own positive experiences with therapy, if comfortable, highlighting how it has benefited you. Alternatively, you could share how someone else you know has benefited from professional support. Finally, encourage them to contact our office directly to have any of their questions answered. It's important to remember that therapy is most effective when the individual is voluntarily seeking help and committed to engaging in the process.
Can I cover the cost of someone else's therapy sessions?
Yes, it is sometimes possible for churches, friends, or family members to partially or fully cover the cost of sessions. However, due to confidentiality, the client receiving services will need to provide written authorization to release financial information, allowing us to discuss payment arrangements with the third party.