Frequently Asked Questions
What can I expect in my first appointment?
At your first session we will review your rights to confidentiality and other policies to ensure a safe and transparent start to therapy. We will explore a basic overview of your background, mental health history, and identify your goals and hopes for therapy. Based on this information we will discuss what treatment options will best meet your needs.
What can I expect with confidentiality?
The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) requires all mental health professionals to protect the personal health information of clients. This extends to anything you discuss and share in our appointments. However, there are a few situations that we are required by law to report to the appropriate agency including: (1) If there is suspected past or present abuse or neglect of children, elderly, or disabled individuals, (2) if there is a reason to suspect a client is in danger of harming themselves or someone else, or (3) if a valid court order requires the release of information. While these situations are uncommon, if they do occur, we will work together to find the best way to disclose this information to the appropriate parties within legal guidelines.
How often should I set up appointments?
We will discuss the appropriate frequency of appointments in our first session together. This is highly variable from person to person with the most common frequency being weekly visits. However, we will work together to accommodate scheduling constraints, financial limitations, and other factors in order to determine what will be most beneficial for your situation. We always want therapy to feel supportive and accessible, never burdensome.
What does a typical therapy session look like?
While therapy looks different for everyone, there are some constants. Each session will focus on helping you progress toward the goals we discuss in our first appointment. Sometimes this will be identifying patterns of behavior and exploring how your past informs these. Other times we may focus on making connections between emotions, thoughts, and behaviors and how to intervene to facilitate change. Underneath all of our work together will be evidenced-based tools and compassionate care to assist you in reaching your goals.
Can you prescribe medication?
No. You will need to visit a medical doctor, psychiatrist, or psychiatric/mental health nurse practitioner in order to receive medication. Research shows that combining therapy with medication yields the best outcomes for healing. If desired, we can provide you referrals to licensed medical professionals who can prescribe you appropriate medications for your presenting concerns.
How long will I need therapy?
Duration of therapy varies greatly between clients. For some, it's short-term to address specific problems or concerns. For others, longer term therapy for chronic mental health challenges, complex PTSD, or personal development may prove beneficial. Regardless, we will routinely discuss progress toward goals in order to determine the best cadence for therapy moving forwards. As always, we want you to feel empowered to direct your therapy journey as you see fit.
What is your cancellation policy?
Cancellations made on the day of an appointment, including no-shows, are charged at the full price of the session and cannot be billed through insurance.