Frequently Asked Questions
WHEN DO I NEED COUNSELING?
Wellness is more than the absence of a disorder; it is a state of optimal well-being. It goes beyond the curing of illness to achieving health. Through the ongoing integration of our physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual self, each person has the opportunity to create and preserve a whole and happy life. My services are designed to provide my clients with an integrated solution for their mind, body, spirit, and life to enhance their lives and resolve issues. Counseling is not only for persons who are experiencing psychiatric disturbances or have been diagnosed with psychological disorders such as depression, anxiety, or panic attacks/phobias. This process could be beneficial to those who are experiencing various normal life transitions or challenges, problems with relationships, parenting, and/or overall stress in general. In some cases, counseling is used for relaxation training and ongoing self-search.
WHAT ARE THE RISKS AND BENEFITS OF COUNSELING?
Counseling and psychotherapy are beneficial, but as with any treatment, there are inherent risks. During counseling, you will engage in discussions about personal issues which may bring to the surface uncomfortable emotions such as anger, guilt, and sadness. However, the benefits of counseling can far outweigh any discomfort encountered in the process. Some of the possible benefits are improved personal relationships, reduced feelings of emotional distress, improved quality of life, and specific problem solving. I cannot guarantee these benefits, of course. It is my desire, however, to work with you to attain your personal goals for counseling and/or psychotherapy.
THE NATURE OF COUNSELING/HOW MANY SESSIONS WILL I NEED?
I only accept clients in my practice that I believe have the capacity to resolve their own problems with my assistance. As people become more accepting of themselves and more aware of their choices, they are more capable of finding contentment in their lives. Some clients need only a few therapy sessions to achieve their goals; others will require more. Furthermore, counseling is a collaborative process in which we will set and re-evaluate the goals together and will assess our progress together in order to reach desirable results. Goal-setting and evaluation of progress is an ongoing process in counseling. Please feel free at any time to bring up any changes you would like to see in how your counseling proceeds. Your input is an essential part of your therapy process; it is important for the success of the treatment. In case of counseling a minor, in addition to discussing all of the above with him/her, I will require parent(s) / guardian to attend a separate meeting at least once every 3 or 4 sessions in order to discuss the progress.
DO YOU ACCEPT HEALTH INSURANCE?
Yes! I work with most providers, but not all of them. Your out-of-pocket costs will depend on your insurance carrier and plan. Please contact me to verify coverage.