Why do people seek counseling or therapy?
People come into therapy for many reasons. Some need to respond to unexpected changes in their lives, while others seek self-exploration and personal growth. When coping skills and faith are compromised by guilt, doubt, anxiety, or despair, therapy can help. Counseling can provide support, problem-solving skills, and enhanced coping for issues such as depression, anxiety, lack of confidence, relationship troubles, unresolved childhood issues, bereavement, spiritual conflicts, stress management, body image issues, and creative blocks. People engaged in therapy become more willing and able to take responsibility for their actions, work towards self-change and create greater awareness and meaning in their lives.  

What can I expect in a counseling session?
During sessions you are expected to talk about the primary concerns and issues in your life. An appointment lasts 50 minutes, but some people request longer sessions. Usually weekly meetings are best. Some people who are in extreme distress need more than one visit per week, at least until the crisis passes. During the time between sessions it is beneficial to think about and process what was discussed. At times, you may be asked to take certain actions outside of the therapy sessions, such as reading a relevant book or keeping records. For treatment to "work," you must be an active participant, both in and outside of the counseling sessions.

What benefits can I expect from working with a counselor/therapist?
A number of benefits are available from participating in counseling. Often it is helpful just to know that someone understands. Therapy can provide a fresh, objective perspective on a difficult problem or point you in the direction of a solution. Many people find therapy to be a tremendous asset to managing personal growth, interpersonal relationships, family concerns, and the stressors of daily life. The benefits you obtain from counseling 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 personal goals
• Building [biblical] beliefs and a clearer sense of (core) values 
• Developing skills for improving your marriage/parenting
• Creating a greater sense of connection/intimacy (with God, others, self) 
• Finding resolution to the issues or concerns that led you to seek therapy
• Find new ways to cope with stress and anxiety and phobias
• Managing anger, depression and other emotional pressures
• Improving communication skills - learn how to listen to others, and have others listen to you
• Getting "unstuck" from unhealthy patterns (sin) - breaking old behaviors (confession/repentance) and developing new ones (sanctification)
• Discovering new ways to solve problems and find solutions 
• Fostering your faith (in God) and a balanced sense of self (confidence)
• Building healthy boundaries into your personal/professional relationships
• Experiencing forgiveness (peace) and finding fulfillment (purpose) 
• Other important concerns that you wish to find help for
   

Is Counseling Confidential?
In general, the law protects the confidentiality of all communications between a client and a therapist. Information is not disclosed without written permission. However, there are a number of exceptions to this rule. Exceptions include:

• Suspected child abuse or dependant adult or elder abuse. The therapist is required by law to report this to the appropriate authorities immediately.
• If a client is threatening serious bodily harm to another person/s. The therapist must notify the police and inform the intended victim.
• If a client intends to harm himself or herself. The therapist will make every effort to enlist their cooperation in insuring their safety. If they do not cooperate, further measures may be taken without their permission in order to ensure their safety. 

Do you accept insurance? How does insurance work?

I do not participate in any insurance plans directly, and have opted out of Medicare. I do not provide insurance claim filing services for any patients, electronic or otherwise. All of my patients are responsible for filing their own insurance claims and dealing with their insurance plans regarding coverage of services and what reimbursement is possible under the terms of the plan.

 

For more detailed information, please refer to Rates & Insurance.

What can I expect to pay for these services?
The current fee schedule for my services can be found elsewhere on this website (see Rates & Insurance).  Full payment is expected at each and every session.