Is therapy right for me?

Seeking out treatment within a partial hospitalization, intensive outpatient or chemical dependency program is an individual choice. All human beings, at some time in their lives, experience mental and emotional distress,  just as they experience physical illnesses.  Sometimes, individuals cope with these circumstances by using skills they have developed through experience. At other times, due to the intensity of the distress or the length of time chronic stress has persisted - people are unable to cope and may require professional assistance. If you are suffering from distress, and asking yourself the question, "Is therapy right for me?" - it may be worthwhile to explore this option further.  Working with our multi-disciplinary team of mental health professionals can help provide new strategies and support for all types of life challenges. 

What if I don't feel comfortable once I'm accepted for treatment in one of your programs?

Most of us may feel at least somewhat uncomfortable, at first, when we think about trying something new.  After completing one or two sessions with us, most patients tell us how supported they feel by our staff.  Many patients tell us that they wish they had started treatment sooner.  Others have asked, "why didn't they teach us these coping skills in school?" or, "why didn't I learn these things years ago?"  Rather than allowing feelings of discomfort or, perhaps, even fear from stopping you from getting the help you need and deserve, might I suggest that you give yourself the chance to find out for yourself? Take advantage of our free assessment.  If one of our treatment programs could be of benefit - just commit to one day of treatment. . . just one day.  See how it works for you.  If it makes sense, come back for another session.  Keep taking it a day at a time. 

Do I really need treatment?  I can usually handle my problems.

Everyone goes through challenging situations in life, and while you may have successfully navigated through other difficulties you've faced, there's nothing wrong with seeking out treatment and extra support when you need it.  By seeking treatment you are taking responsibility by accepting where you're at in life and making a commitment to change your situation.  Therapy can provide long-lasting  benefits and support, giving you the tools you need to feel better, find meaning and joy in your life and overcome the  challenges you face.

How can treatment help me? 

A number of benefits are available from participating in a treatment program and/or therapy. Your therapist can provide support, problem-solving skills, and enhanced coping strategies for issues such as depression, bipolar illness, anxiety, unremitting grief and stress management.  Many people also find that the right therapist can be a tremendous asset to living more successfully throughout many situations in your life -  including work, home and academic settings.  Working with a therapist can result in fresh perspectives on difficult problems or your moving in the direction of a solution - even after years of feeling "stuck."  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 treatment may 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 is treatment like?

Every session will be somewhat unique and dependent upon your individual goals and the topic of focus at the time. In order to maximize the benefit you derive from treatment, you  will be encouraged to focus on specific situations of concern in your life. Our treatment, although short-term, can be highly effective because of the kind of focus given to your goals. There may be times when you are asked to take certain actions outside of the therapy sessions, such as reading a relevant book or keeping records to track certain thoughts, moods and actions.  It is important to reflect upon what you've discussed and learned in treatment and to apply these things to your life outside of treatment. For therapy to be most effective you will be encouraged to be an active participant, both during and between sessions. This means taking responsibility for your actions, working towards self-change and greater awareness in your life.Here are some things you can expect out of treatment:

• Compassion, respect and understanding
• Perspectives to illuminate persistent patterns and negative feelings
• Real strategies for enacting positive change
• Effective and proven techniques along with practical guidance
  

Is medication a substitute for therapy or behaviorally oriented treatment?

In some cases a combination of medication and therapy is the right course of action. Working with your medical doctor you can determine what's best for you. It is well established that the long-term solution to mental and emotional problems and the pain they cause cannot be solved solely by medication. Instead of just treating the symptom, therapy addresses the cause of our distress 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.

Do you accept insurance? How does insurance work?

We are happy to provide you with a free verification of benefits. We accept most HMO and PPO plans, as well as Medicare. If you would like to check your own mental health coverage, it would be helpful to find the answers to the  following questions:

• What are my mental health benefits?
• What is the coverage amount per therapy session?
• How many therapy sessions does my plan cover?
• How much does my insurance pay for an out-of-network provider?
• Is approval required from my primary care physician?

Is mental health treatment confidential?

In general, the law protects the confidentiality of all communications between a client and therapist. No information is disclosed without prior written permission from the client.

However, there are some exceptions required by law to this rule. Exceptions include:

• Suspected child abuse or dependant adult or elder abuse. The therapist is required to report this to the appropriate authorities immediately.
• If a client is threatening serious bodily harm to another person. The therapist is required to notify the police.
• If a client intends to harm himself or herself. The therapist will make every effort to work with the individual to ensure their safety. However, if an individual does not cooperate, additional measures may need to be taken.