What is therapy like?

Therapy is a particular kind of conversation in which people are helped to describe themselves and the way that problems have intruded into their lives. This is a process of exploration aimed at alleviating the extent to which these problems exercise their influence in the lives of individuals, couples or families. 
  
 

What about medication vs. psychotherapy?  
 
There are some circumstances in which I recommend the addition of pharmacotherapy to our work in therapy. I sometimes recommend consultation with a psychiatrist. Other times people have consulted their primary care physician for assessment regarding suitability of adding medication to their treatment program. I strive to collaborate with prescribing physicians to insure maximum benefit for those in our care.
 
 
Do you take insurance, and how does that work?
 
I am not a network provider for any insurance plans. I give itemized receipts for my service, which can be utilized for out of network reimbursement. Each individual has the responsibility to work with their carrier directly. 

Does what we talk about in therapy remain confidential?
 
Confidentiality is one of the most important components between a client and psychotherapist. Successful therapy requires a high degree of trust with highly sensitive subject matter that is usually not discussed anywhere but the therapist's office.   Every therapist should provide a written copy of their confidential disclosure agreement, and you can expect that what you discuss in session will not be shared with anyone.  This is called “Informed Consent”.  Sometimes, however, you may want your therapist to share information or give an update to someone on your healthcare team (your Physician, Naturopath, Attorney), but by law your therapist cannot release this information without obtaining your written permission.
 
However, 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 threated to harm another person.