Question:  How long is a counseling session?

A:  Each counseling session is approximately 45 to 55 minutes

Question:  What is counseling like and what is expected of me?

A:  Your therapist will meet with you in a private office to discuss your presenting problems in a face to face format.  We understand that communicating your problems can be difficult, especially if this is your first time in counseling.  Your therapist will do everything that he/she can to make you feel comfortable and gain your trust.  There is no hurry in telling your therapist everything during the first session.  Please be as honest as you can during the counseling process so that your therapist can obtain an accurate assessment of the presenting issues.  It is always preferable not to say things until you are ready rather than minimizing information or telling the therapist what you believe he/she wants to hear.

Question:  Can I switch to a different therapist if I don't feel comfortable with him/her or, if I simply don’t like the one initially assigned?

A:  You are never under any obligation to continue services with any individual provider or group practice.  However, please be aware that therapists are not mind readers so if there is anything the therapist is doing that you don't like, you should give him/her an opportunity to remediate the matter.  This is recommended compared to starting the process again with another therapist. 

Question:  I have insurance.  How does finding a therapist and paying for sessions work? Do I have to tell the insurance company what is wrong with me? 

A:  This is easy.  Simply call the insurance company's mental health division and tell them that you want a referral to a therapist.  They may ask you some general questions about the presenting problem in order to make the best referral for you.  If an authorization number is required, they will provide that to you so that you can give it to the therapist or group practice.  Finally, you pay the therapist or receptionist any co-payment, percentage or deductible as per your insurance plan's mental health benefits.