Frequently Asked Questions

1. Why counseling?

Generally speaking, therapy works by providing new perspective and ways to deal with the issues with which you’ve been struggling. The unique qualities of the therapeutic relationship or environment, e.g., confidential, non-judgmental and supportive, promote healing and growth as you feel more comfortable sharing your innermost thoughts and feelings. Further, therapy can instill hope and confidence that your life can improve as you begin to see your issues as more manageable and gain new tools and coping strategies. Counselors can help you find your own solutions to why works best for you to create a better life and reach your full potential.

2. How do I know when it’s time to see a therapist?

There is not a one-size-fits-all answer to this question. However, typically a person decides it is time to seek professional help when she feels increasingly overwhelmed and does not see a clear way out of this situation using her usual resources and coping mechanisms. In some cases the person may not be as aware that they could benefit from seeking outside help as those closest to her are. The most obvious situation in which seeking professional help is recommended is when any safety concerns are present, as in the case of suicidal thoughts and any attempts, and other high-risk behaviors, like self-injury and severe drug and alcohol use.

3. Why can’t I just talk to a close friend?

Relying on the support of close, trusted friends can certainly be a helpful coping strategy when you are feeling stressed out or overwhelmed. However, sometimes it is more beneficial to speak to someone who has the training and experience to help you deal with a particular problem. Friends are usually well-intentioned but often are unable to take as objective a perspective as a trained therapist can. When speaking to a professional confidentiality is also guaranteed. Further, you don’t have to worry about your relationship getting negatively impacted in some way as you potentially do when you open up to a friend or family member about a particular problem. For example, once you start feeling better you could start avoiding your confidant so you are not reminded of that difficult time in your life.

4. Why hire a coach? I seem to manage fairly well.

A coach is someone whose job is to help you achieve your maximum potential, and help you figure out how to get there along the way. A good life or business coach can help you gain clarity on your purpose, achieve health and fitness goals, prepare you for change, grow your business, overcome social anxieties, develop strong focus and attention, create balance in your life, and so much more. An athlete uses a coach to help them be the best they can be , why not be the best you can be in your career and life?

5. Do you take insurance?

We do not take any insurance. But depending on your particular insurance provider, you may be able to receive some reimbursement for services if you have out-of-network mental health coverage. It is recommended to contact your insurance carrier to inquire further. We can provide appropriate documentation of services, like an invoice or super bill, to submit to your insurance provider for reimbursement purposes.

6. What do you charge?

Our goal is to provide counseling or coaching to anyone who wants it. Therefore, we work on a sliding scale to provide services to more individuals. Our rate is $75.00 -$150.00 per session based on service and need.

7. Can you prescribe medication?

No, we cannot. Medical doctors and psychiatrists specifically most commonly have the training and experience to be able to safely and effectively prescribe psychotropic medication. We can facilitate a referral to a psychiatrist if needed.

A note on the use of therapy in addition to medication management: Engaging in therapy and gaining new tools and coping strategies can enhance the effects of medication. This experience can also be helpful in preventing relapse if you and your prescribing provider decide at some point that you no longer need medication.