Is therapy right for me?
Seeking out therapy is an individual choice. There are many reasons why people come to therapy. Sometimes it is to deal with long-standing psychological issues, or problems with anxiety or depression. Other times it is in response to unexpected changes in one’s life such as a divorce or work transition. Many seek the advice of a therapist as they pursue their own personal exploration and growth. Working with a therapist can help provide insight, support, and new strategies for all types of life challenges. Therapy can help address many types of issues including depression, anxiety, conflict, grief, stress management, relationship concerns, and general life transitions. Therapy is right for anyone who is interested in getting the most out of their life by taking responsibility, creating greater self-awareness, and working towards change in their lives.
What can I expect in a therapy session?
Every therapy session is unique and caters to each individual and their specific goals. During therapy sessions it is standard to talk about the primary issues and concerns in your life. It is common to schedule a series of weekly sessions, which are 45 minutes, though; the initial session is 60-90 minutes. Sometimes individuals who are going through a particularly difficult challenge may request more time per session or more than one session per week. Therapy can be short-term, focusing on a specific issue or longer-term, addressing more complex issues or ongoing personal growth. There may be times when you are asked to take certain actions outside of the therapy sessions, such as reading a relevant book or keeping records to track certain behaviors. Between sessions it is important process what has been discussed and integrate it into your life. For therapy to be most effective you must be an active participant, both during and between the sessions.
What can I expect during the first session?
Dr. Stone will create a safe, therapeutic and confidential environment while gathering information about your presenting issue or reasons for seeking therapy. She will also gather information about your history (family, relationship, psychological, career, etc.) and your current lifestyle (schedule, stressors, support network, etc,). She will explain the process of therapy and may discuss some initial goals and objectives. You are encouraged to ask any questions you might have about therapy and to share your story, objectives and concerns. We may discuss frequency of visits (which is usually once a week at the start of therapy), and you will schedule your next visit if you and Dr. Stone agree it is a fit to work together. There is some basic paperwork that you will complete pertaining to your contact information, confidentiality, etc. Sessions are 50 minutes long and you do not need to bring anything other than yourself.
What benefits can I expect from working with a therapist?
Therapy can provide insight and new perspectives into life’s challenges and can help create solutions to difficult problems. Many people find that working with a therapist can enhance personal development, improve relationships and family dynamics, and can ease the challenges of daily life. Sometimes, just having someone there to listen is helpful. Overall, people in therapy tend to have lower levels of anxiety and stress, decreased conflict, and improved quality of life.
Some of the benefits available from therapy include:
- Developing new skills for handling stress and anxiety
- Modifying unhealthy behavior and long-standing patterns
- Attaining insight into personal patterns and behavior
- Increasing confidence, peace, vitality, and well-being
- Improving ways to manage anger, depression and moods
- Discovering new ways to solve problems
- Navigating life’s obstacles more effectively
- Improving listening and communication skills
- Enhancing the overall quality of life
What is the cost of counseling/therapy?
Our regular fee is $200 for the first session and $175 for each session thereafter. Your payment is due at the time of service. Payment options include cash, credit card, or HSA/MSA (Health Savings Accounts/Medical Savings Accounts) credit cards. Personal checks are accepted only under certain situations that have been discussed in advance. Other payment options, such as sliding fee scale arrangements based upon your income, should be discussed prior to your first appointment.
How long are therapy sessions?
Sessions are 45 minutes in length.
How frequent are visits?
Typically, sessions occur once per week. We may decide to increase or decrease the frequency of visits depending on progress and need.
How long will I be in therapy?
Length of treatment depends on the presenting issue and the goals of treatment. Brief treatment might be as short as three to five sessions while longer term therapy might last as long as a few years. We will collaborate together to determine the length of treatment that is clinically appropriate and feels comfortable for the client.
What if I need medication?
If we agree that medication such as an antidepressant might be helpful to you, Dr. Stone will provide a referral to a psychiatrist or agreed upon physician. Dr. Stone has several psychiatrists and physicians with whom she collaborates to help clients reach goals in treatment.
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 dependent 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.