FAQs
I’ve heard people who go to counseling are “crazy” or “weak.” Is that true?
Not at all. Everyone can benefit from counseling from time-to-time. People who seek counseling are actually brave and strong, knowing that it is an important tool to help them feel better. You already have skills to handle life’s challenges, but perhaps you have a problem that feels overwhelming, making it difficult to access your coping strategies. Or maybe you would like to learn more strategies to put in your toolbox.
What if I don’t know what to say or what to do?
We will work together to figure out what is best for you. Your therapist will also ask questions if you’re not sure what to say. Some clients even enjoy working on an art project or listening to music while talking in session.
What if my therapist and I are not a good fit?
You are not stuck! Everyone has different needs and therapists have a variety of specializations and personalities. We offer a free 15-minute consultation with one of our therapists to help figure out who you should have a first appointment with. At the first appointment, we’ll help determine if it makes sense to continue with that therapist or if another therapist would be a better fit.
Counseling vs Coaching
What is the difference between counseling and coaching? While both can be helpful, there are differences.
COACHING is not therapy. It is working with a guide, or coach, to help you set and manage personal or business improvement goals. There is no mental health diagnosis, therefore, insurance does not pay for coaching services.
COUNSELING is a process by which you establish therapeutic goals and work toward achieving those goals. If you want to pay for sessions using insurance, they require that the sessions are “medically necessary.” The “identified client” will need to have a mental health diagnosis. Check with your insurance company to ask if they pay for the type of counseling you seek. Insurance companies reserve the right to review your session notes.
If you do NOT pay with insurance, counseling may also include personal growth and career counseling, and you may or may not have a mental health diagnosis. We each offer a sliding fee for those who pay themselves.
What is the difference between counseling and coaching? While both can be helpful, there are differences.
COACHING is not therapy. It is working with a guide, or coach, to help you set and manage personal or business improvement goals. There is no mental health diagnosis, therefore, insurance does not pay for coaching services.
COUNSELING is a process by which you establish therapeutic goals and work toward achieving those goals. If you want to pay for sessions using insurance, they require that the sessions are “medically necessary.” The “identified client” will need to have a mental health diagnosis. Check with your insurance company to ask if they pay for the type of counseling you seek. Insurance companies reserve the right to review your session notes.
If you do NOT pay with insurance, counseling may also include personal growth and career counseling, and you may or may not have a mental health diagnosis. We each offer a sliding fee for those who pay themselves.