Q: What is the first session like?
A: The initial session is considered an assessment session. When you arrive at the office you will receive some paperwork to complete. For therapy clients this will include questions about why you are coming to counseling, the history of the problem, your family history, symptoms that you are experiencing etc. You will also receive information about fees and policies and more details about the counseling process.
Q: How often do you go to counseling sessions?
A: The frequency of sessions is determined by you and the therapist depending on your particular needs. Usually the therapist recommends weekly sessions when you are getting started and then encourages more time in between as you improve and practice your skills. Again, this is a collaborative decision between you and the therapist.
Q: How many sessions will I need?
A: This is determined by many factors but mainly based on your particular needs and the progress you are making. You and your therapist will have ongoing dialog about progress and will discuss termination well in advance of ending therapy.
Q: Can anyone find out that I am in therapy?
A: Therapy is confidential by law. The exceptions to confidentiality would involve safety situations that are strictly defined by the law, or by you signing a release to a specific person or agency to share information about you and your therapy. You will receive more information about our privacy policy upon entering into counseling.
Q: Do you accept my insurance?
A: Therapy may be covered under your health insurance plan. Our therapist is an in-network provider for Blue Cross/Blue Shield, Cigna, HealthPartners, Preferred One, United Healthcare, and UCare and is a part of the BHP network of providers. For these plans he will submit claims for you. For other insurance plans you may be able to get reimbursement for therapy out of network. It is important that you contact your particular insurance plan for coverage information since all plans are different.
Q: What is your cancellation policy?
A. Given that appointments are set on an hourly basis and are specific to you, it is required that you cancel your appointment 24 hours in advance. No shows and late cancellations will be subject to the charges in your contract. These fees are not payable by insurance plans.
Q: Are you a Christian Counseling agency?
A: I am a Christian and a Licensed Psychologist. I believe it is important to inform clients of my basic world view and theoretical underpinnings as this will shape our approach in counseling. In practice however, I do not place my beliefs into therapy unless they are directly related to the clients own, are specific to the therapy, and would be of strong therapeutic value. This is due equally to my philosophy of counseling, understanding of human psychology, and respecting where each individual is in their walk through life. Having said that, I encourage open dialog about matters of spirituality for those who want to integrate their faith with principles applied in sessions. However, if you are solely seeking spiritual advice, theological interpretation, or pastoral care I would encourage you to speak with your particular pastor or clergy.