FAQ

Going to therapy is a very personal choice. People seek out therapy for a variety of reasons. Those reasons may include: a desire for personal growth, a vague feeling that there is something as yet undealt with, or trying to make sense out of obviously difficult experiences. Mental health awareness has increased dramatically over the last decade and the benefits of seeking a therapist have been noted worldwide. The stigma that once existed with regards to seeing a therapist has all but disappeared in North America. However, making that choice still takes a great deal of courage and can require a significant amount of work. Working with a therapist can help provide insight, support, and effective strategies in dealing with life's challenges.

Therapy sessions vary based on the needs / goals of the individual at that given time. However, it is customary for therapists to discuss presenting issues the client discloses, to look at the client's personal history, to discuss client goals, and to explore options in moving toward those goals. Getting to know you as a unique individual is an important part of therapy. Therapy sessions also include less important tasks, like signing forms, scheduling future visits, and collecting fees. The overall duration of therapy varies with the individual, their choices, and the difficulty of the issues with which they are dealing. Therapy can be short-term, focusing on a specific issue, or longer-term, addressing more complex issues / ongoing personal growth. All interactions, recommendations, or assignments you might have or be given are voluntary. You get to decide what you are willing / able to deal with, when to deal with it, and at what pace. In therapy, you can expect:

• Compassion, respect, and a desire to understand

• Objective interaction and feedback

• Collaborative strategies for positive change

• Professional and ethical knowledge and behavior

No. But you may want therapy and can benefit from it - if you choose to seek it. Many people have successfully overcome challenging situations in life, and dealt well with difficult relationship issues. Even so, there is wisdom in seeking out additional support when you would benefit from it. People who seek therapy tend to be self-aware and brave, acknowledging when they need a helping hand and then proceeding to ask for it.

A number of benefits are available from participating in therapy. Therapists can provide support, problem-solving skills, and enhanced coping strategies for a host of issues. Many people also find that counselors can be a tremendous asset to managing personal growth, interpersonal relationships, family concerns, marriage issues, and the hassles of daily life. Therapists can provide a fresh perspective on a difficult problem or point you in the direction of a solution. The benefits you obtain from therapy depend on how well you use the process and put into practice what you learn. Some of the benefits available from therapy include:

• Attaining a better understanding of yourself, your goals and values

• Developing skills for improving your relationships

• Finding resolution to the issues or concerns that led you to seek therapy

• Learning new ways to cope with stress and anxiety

• Managing anger, grief, depression, and other emotional pressures

• Improving communications and listening skills

• Changing old behavior patterns and developing new ones

• Discovering new ways to solve problems in your family or marriage

• Improving your self-esteem and boosting self-confidence

No, only physicians, nurse practitioners, and psychiatrists can prescribe medication. If the counselor and client together determine that medication might be beneficial (or necessary), a referral to a qualified professional may be made. If medication is prescribed, a combination of medication and therapy is considered to be the best course of action.

Yes (see Confidentiality Laws), with a few exceptions:

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

• If a client is threatening serious bodily harm to another person. The therapist is required to notify the police.

• If a client intends to harm himself or herself. The therapist will make every effort to work with the individual to ensure their safety. However, if the therapist believes an imminent danger exists, additional measures must be taken.

Yes, but only Anthem BCBS - IN at this time - See full discussion here.