What if I can’t afford your fee?

Do not let this stop you from contacting me. With most people, I am able to come up with an acceptable financial arrangement. When that has not been the situation, I have helped refer to other therapists who accept a different insurance or may be able to accommodate the specific financial situation.

How long can I expect to come to therapy?

This is a hard question to answer because the length of treatment will vary from one individual to another. Intense, acute troubles, typically require less treatment sessions, while incessant, chronic conditions require a more long term approach. Some individuals find that a few sessions are sufficient, while others choose to continue for the long-term, 20 sessions or more. There is no correct answer, and we will collaborate together to help you make the best informed choice.

Does what we talk about in therapy remain confidential?

Confidentiality and trust is one of the main components of therapy and what allows the therapeutic relationship to be strong. Every therapist should provide a written copy of their confidential disclosure agreement, and you can expect what you discuss in session will remain forever confidential. State law and professional ethics require therapists to maintain confidentiality except for the following situations:
Suspected past or present abuse or neglect of children, adults, and elders to the authorities, including Child Protection and law enforcement, based on information provided by the client or collateral sources.
If the therapist has reason to suspect the client is seriously in danger of harming him/herself or has threatened to harm another person.

What is the difference between medication and psychotherapy?

A catchphrase I like to use with clients is “skill above pill.” It is well established that the long-term solution to mental and emotional issues and the pain they cause cannot be eliminated exclusively through medication. Rather than simply treating the symptom, like putting a cast on a broken arm, therapy addresses the cause of our distresses and the behavior patterns that curb our progress. You can best achieve sustainable growth and a greater sense of well-being with an integrative approach to wellness. However, there are some for whom a blend of medication and therapy is the correct game-plan.