Isn’t therapy for people who are really messed up?

In the past, therapy was thought of as something shameful, something only "neurotic" people did.  Fortunately, there is now a greater understanding of the value of therapy as a growth tool, rather than simply as a healing tool.  I believe it takes greater courage and self-awareness to come to therapy than it does to avoid it.

Is it worth the investment?

Studies have shown that people who engage in therapy end up in higher paying, more satisfying jobs, probably because of the increase in self-confidence and knowledge of one's strengths that occurs during the course of therapy.  Additionally, therapy can dramatically reduce the costs of medical treatment for stress-related illnesses.

Will my insurance cover it?

Most private insurance will cover at least a portion of your therapy costs.  In terms of my own practice, although I have chosen not to be a member of managed care panels, most provide some level of out-of-network provider benefits.  A phone call to your insurance company should give you information about your level of coverage.  You may need to provide them with information about my degree (Ph.D.), licensure (North Carolina Psychology Board License 2072), and Health Services Provider status (I am a Health Services Provider in the State of North Carolina).  You are expected to pay your full fee (cash or check) at the session; I will provide you with a form to file for reimbursement from your insurance company. 

How long will I be in therapy?

The answer varies greatly depending on the individual, on his or her goals, and on the type of therapy.  If you have a straight-forward goal, such as learning strategies to reduce stress on the job, and if you choose a cognitive-behavioral therapist who will teach you deep breathing exercises, progressive muscle relaxation, thought substitutions, and other task-oriented techniques, as few as six sessions may bring relief.  However, if you want to get to the bottom of long-standing problematic relationship patterns and change those patterns, a course of therapy that lasts several months or even is not unusual.

How long are the sessions?  How often?

Most therapists work by the 50-minute hour.  My clients choose either 60- or 90-minute sessions, depending on their style and needs.  Most clients come in once per week or every other week.  

What can I expect in the first session?

I schedule initial sessions for 90 minutes.  This is to provide additional time for me to learn about you and for you to learn about my approach.  First, you will fill out a bit of paperwork, including a services agreement.  Then, I will typically ask what made you decide to come in, and I will learn as much about your history and current life circumstances as time permits.  Additionally, I will tell you a bit about my approach.  By the end of the session, you should have a feeling about whether we are a good fit.  If so, we will decide how to proceed; if not, I will happily offer you other referrals.

Is my confidentiality guaranteed?

I guard my clients' privacy very carefully.  I have no staff, and my voice mail is password-protected.  Charts are kept in a locked cabinet.  My building is in a private, secluded, residential setting.  Clients are scheduled so that they do not run into each other arriving or leaving.  I never share identifying information about a client with anyone without that client's written consent.  (Exceptions occur under very few circumstances, such as when I believe a client to be dangerous to him- or herself, or when child abuse is reported or suspected.  Even then, I discuss my disclosure with the client first.)

Do you offer group therapy?

Occasionally several individuals with similar needs come to my attention, and I may in these instances offer to start a group.  If you are interested in the group format, please contact me and tell me a bit about your goals.  It may be that I know of other individuals with complementary issues, and a group can be formed.  Additionally, I occasionally offer to start a group with individuals who have been in individual therapy with me for a period of time and have a solid understanding of their parts.  Participants can then practice Self-leadership of their parts with other like-minded individuals.

What is group therapy like?

At least four individuals, and no more than ten, are needed for one of my groups.  Some groups are closed; that is, once the group is formed, no other participants are added.  Other groups are open, allowing participants to drop in and out according to their needs.  Group members sign a special consent form indicating that they will share no information about other group members with anyone else.  Group therapy provides a unique opportunity to not only receive guidance and practice, but also provide it for others.