Frequently Asked Questions
Does going to therapy mean I am "crazy"?
For far too long society has made individuals feel scrutinized when seeking mental health services. The goal of Tomorrow and Beyond PLLC is to normalize the need to process life's challenges with a neutral party. Similar to a visit to a medical provider, maintaining a gym membership, the key to a balanced mental state is consistent check-ins.
Can therapy help me?
It is important to understand that you will get more results from therapy if you actively participate in the process. The ultimate purpose of therapy is to expound upon your internal strengths so necessary changes can be long term. Another key component is intregration of learned skills in therapy into your daily interactions. You may also be challenged to do further study outside of therapy sessions such as reading a relevant book, journaling on specific topics, noting particular behaviors or taking action on your goals. People seeking psychotherapy are ready to make positive changes in their lives, are open to new perspectives and take responsibility for their lives.
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
What can I expect from my first session?
It is normal to have strong feelings of anticipation as you prepare for your first session. You can be relieved to know that you are the expert coming to the session as you know your own story and history better than the clinician you will be meeting with. The goal of the first session is to get to know you and you to begin building a trusting relationship with your clinician. You will not be pressured to reveal past your comfort zone but will be encouraged to be open to sharing pertinent information to developing a solid plan for change.
Will my insurance pay for these behavioral health services?
It is imperative that you first contact your insurance provider to review behavioral health benefits. Also, similar to your medical provider, behavioral health providers are bound to the use of ICD-10 codes which speaks a language to insurance companies the expected reimbursement amount for a given diagnosis. Symptoms are grouped into classifications to form a diagnosis.
Questions to ask your insurance provider to ensure you have covered benefits:
-
Do I have mental health insurance benefits?
-
What is my deductible and has it been met?
-
How many sessions per year does my health insurance cover?
-
What is the coverage amount per therapy session?
-
Is approval required from my primary care physician?
-
Does my plan cover web-based therapy sessions?
Do I need to discuss my medication and any other therapist I may be working with?
Yes. It is imperative that you and your therapist develop a rapport where transparency in medical history and current medications as this creates a more clear picture of symptoms that may be experienced. It is also important that all clinical professionals you maintain a relationship with is revealed. It is the ethical responsibility of any clinician to ensure that clients are not engaged in more than one therapeutic relationship at a time. Having more than one treating therapist for the same need can create a level of confusion for you and actually hinder the growth you are seeking.
Will my therapist assist me in completing my FMLA/Disability paperwork?
The decision for FMLA/Disability paperwork to be completed is determined by the clinical need of individuals. Such paperwork can not be completed while using EAP services and is also considered only after 6 or more sessions have occurred. There is an assessed fee for the completion of the paperwork and any recertifications.
Why do people go to therapy and how do I know if it is right for me?
People have many different motivations for coming to psychotherapy. Some may be going through a major life transition (unemployment, divorce, new job, etc.), or are not handling stressful circumstances well. Some people need assistance in managing a range of other issues such as low self-esteem, depression, anxiety, addictions, relationship problems, spiritual conflicts, and creative blocks. Therapy can help provide some much-needed encouragement and help with skills to get them through these periods. Others may be at a point where they are ready to learn more about themselves or want to be more effective with their goals in life. In short, people seeking psychotherapy are ready to meet the challenges in their lives and ready to make changes in their lives.
How long will I be in therapy?
Because each person has different issues and goals for therapy, therapy will be different depending on the individual. In general, you can expect to discuss the current events happening in your life, your personal history relevant to your issue, and report progress (or any new insights gained) from the previous therapy session. Depending on your specific needs, therapy can be short-term, for a specific issue, or longer-term, to deal with more difficult patterns or your desire for more personal development. Either way, it is most common to schedule regular sessions with your therapist (usually weekly).
Is what I talk about in therapy 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. You will receive a written copy of the confidential disclosure agreement, and you can expect that what you discuss in session will not be shared with anyone. You will be asked to sign a Release of Information form if you are ever interested in having your private information shared with another healthcare professional.
Confidentiality is respected except in 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.