What can I expect in a therapy session?

 

During the initial intake session, we will meet to gain a complete and thorough history and evaluation of areas of concern, needs, and goals for treatment. During the initial session, we will discuss family history,  developmental history, current behaviors, and symptoms and my treatment approaches and techniques. A treatment plan will be discussed at this time and specific recommendations will be made regarding recommended therapeutic interventions, and any further evaluation or referrals which may be needed, including suggestions for further reading. Progress will be recorded via patient report, therapist observation, and the client Services.  At this time questions will be answered, reading material will be given to Community-Based testing, Medical, Legal or additional in-depth. We may make referrals for additional services if necessary including Psychiatry (for medication evaluation), Psychological (for self report and any other relevant feedback from teachers, doctors, etc.

For children, sessions will consist of various forms of Play Therapy, including but not limited to:

1. Art therapy-the use of drawing, painting and other forms of creative expression

2. Narrative therapy-storytelling to elicit themes and emotions

3. Toys, including puppets, figurines, dollhouse, etc.

4. Role plays

5. Modeling

These methods are used sometimes in conjunction with but also in lieu of traditional talk therapy with children and adolescents who are often unable to use words to express themselves or communicate emotions. Children and teens respond extremely well to being able to express themselves creatively in a safe setting while learning appropriate ways to manage and communicate feelings.

 

How long will sessions last?

 

1. The intake appointment can last anywhere from 60-75+ minutes depending on the complexity of the issues presented

2. A typical play therapy session will last between 45-60 minutes but may be longer depending on the types of techniques used

3. Adult sessions last between 53-60 minutes

 

Do you accept insurance?  How does insurance work?

 

Please check with your insurance carrier prior to your first session in order to ensure that you have coverage. Check your coverage carefully and find the answers to the following questions:

 

• Do I have mental health benefits?

• What is my deductible and has it been met?

• How many sessions per calendar year does my plan cover?

• How much do you pay for an out-of-net provider?

• Is there a limitation on how much you will pay per session?

• Is primary care physician approval required?

 

Is therapy confidential?

 

In general, the law protects the confidentiality of all communications between a client and a psychotherapist. Information is not disclosed without written permission. However, there are a number of exceptions to this rule. Exceptions include:

• Suspected child abuse or dependant adult or elder abuse. The therapist is required by law to report this to the appropriate authorities immediately.

• If a client is threatening serious bodily harm to another person/s. The therapist must notify the police and inform the intended victim.

• If a client intends to harm himself or herself. The therapist will make every effort to enlist their cooperation in insuring their safety. If they do not cooperate, further measures may be taken without their permission in order to ensure their safety.

 

Can we speak over the phone first so that I may determine if we are a good match?

 

It is important for those seeking counseling to find a clinician with whom they feel comfortable. In fact, research on counseling outcomes indicate that a significant factor for predicting counseling success involves a positive relationship between client and clinician. We welcome the opportunity to speak with potential clients over the phone to determine if we are a good match.