How do I know if I need to go to therapy?
People come to therapy for many different reasons. Some individuals come because they are feeling sad and/or stressed and are struggling to cope. Others may come because they are experiencing grief and loss. Still others may come because they are having relationship issues that are causing problems. Some people may seek help for issues that developed recently while others may want to work on problems that have been ongoing for a period of time.
During difficult times, some people find that family and friends may be too close and they need the help of an impartial professional. A licensed mental health counselor offers objective feedback, provides a safe place for you to explore your feelings and circumstances, and helps you identify and explore various options for resolution.
Whatever your problem or issue, if you have been trying to address feelings, situations and relationships that are causing problems in your life and have not experienced improvement, a therapist or counselor may be able to help you.
What happens in therapy?
Therapy can help you increase self-awareness, as well as gain insight into your relationships and behaviors. Ultimately, the goal of therapy is to help you implement changes and address problems and challenges that are preventing you from achieving your goals and enjoying your life. This is true whether you visit a mental health counselor on your own or pursue relationship counseling services with your partner.
In order for therapy to be successful you will need to establish a relationship with your therapist that is based on trust. At all times during therapy you should expect to be treated in a respectful and professional manner. In a collaborative and nonjudgmental environment the issues that brought you to therapy are addressed.
Denise approaches therapy as if are an active participant in your own treatment. An intake is done during the initial session. This involves asking you questions in order to understand your issues and identify the strengths you already have that can help you address them. A plan is then formulated to tackle the challenges you are facing. Throughout therapy progress is reviewed and goals are revised if needed. Remember that the sessions are for you, so the issues you feel are most important will be addressed.
Will what I say to you remain confidential?
Most of what is talked about in therapy remains confidential because the law protects communications between a client and a therapist. There are, however, specific circumstances that would require all licensed mental health professionals to break that confidentiality. These situations include the following:
- If a client threatens to harm him/herself or another individual.
- If child abuse or the abuse of a vulnerable adult or elder is suspected.
- If a court order is issued.
What are the fees?
The hourly rates are as follows:
| Individual | Couple | |
| Initial Session | $225.00 | $225.00 |
| Regular Session* | $150.00 | $175.00 |
*A regular session is 45 minutes for an individual and 50 minutes for a couple.
Denise does not accept third party reimbursement from insurance companies. She is credentialed with certain employee assistance programs (ComPsych, Military One Source, Beacon Health Options and New Directions) and will accept reimbursement from them. Please contact Denise if you have any questions, you can email Denise or call her at 651-214-4650.