A few basic answers to aid those who are not familiar with participating in the therapeutic process.

A typical session lasts 45–50 minutes and is referred to as “the therapeutic hour.” For some individuals, this time seems to fly by too quickly. Therefore, we offer what we refer to as enhanced sessions for individuals or couples who truly want to “dig deep” and work through whatever may be on their minds for a longer time period than a traditional session.

An initial session is largely an information gathering event in which the therapist obtains a substantial amount of information from the client in order to best aid the client in addressing their concerns, issues, or any current struggles. It is also helpful for the therapist to acquire this information even if one is not currently facing any particular struggles but wants to focus on living life at their next best level. This information aids the therapist and client(s) to set therapeutic goals.

Confidentiality is foundational to the therapeutic process. There are some limits to confidentiality, and they are standard and follow HIPPA guidelines, which are reviewed in detail during the initial appointment. Take heart in knowing that what you discuss will remain confidential in a safe, supportive, and nonjudgmental environment according to HIPPA guidelines.

Out-of-insurance may be filed on an individual’s behalf, if requested. Please be aware that any claim filed with insurance requires a mental health diagnosis. Therefore, many people prefer to not be “labeled” and opt to utilize the fee-for-service route. A diagnosis cannot be given to a couple, so true couples therapy can never be obtained via an insurance plan.

If one is beginning the therapeutic process due to any challenges or issues, please be aware that one will sometimes feel worse before one begins to feel better. This is normal and indicates that one (or more person(s), depending upon the situation) is really diving in and engaging in true therapeutic work.

It is work, yet we at Therapy for Anyone feel that it is work that is well worth doing and often leads to a better sense of self, improved self-confidence, and better relationships with loved ones or even colleagues, depending upon one’s situation.

It is best not to begin couples therapy if one (or both persons) is abusing or dependent upon alcohol or any chemical-altering substance. In order for true couples therapy to occur, the “elephant in the room,” to use a well-worn phrase, must be addressed and dealt with prior to being able to work on any couple issues.

Couples therapy is different from what we at Therapy for Anyone refer to as contemplative therapy. We view therapy as contemplative when one person (for whatever reason) has one foot in and one foot out of the relationship. For instance, if an affair is occurring, couples therapy cannot take place. The best-case scenario in that instance would be contemplative therapy. If one is involved in an affair (to whatever level, whether it is physical, emotional, or online only), then energies that should be expended between the couple are being spent elsewhere, which results in clients and the therapist merely spinning their wheels and not participating in actual couples therapy.

A minimum 48-business-hour notice is required in order to modify the schedule. Please be aware that last-minute cancellations or no-shows result in someone else who wants or needs to be seen by the therapist being unable to do so if the slot is scheduled, and last-minute cancellations are charged according to the fee schedule. It is also a matter of courtesy and respect as everyone’s time is valuable.

Therapy can sometimes be fun. Yes, it can! Once one has established a rapport with the therapist, humor can often be therapeutic, and discussing humorous or entertaining surprises often does happen in the process of therapy.