FAQ’s
Going to therapy for the first time can be scary, take some time to go over some of these FAQ’s to get a bit more information before you get started.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why online counseling?
Online counseling is changing the way that therapy is being conducted making it more convenient, private, and affordable to be able to reach out and get a helping hand.
No more fighting traffic to make it to an appointment or having to sit through an hour session when you just need a quick professional opinion on a subject. Online counseling puts therapeutic services in the palm of your hand.
Online counseling also provides you with the privacy you may desire, not having to visit an actual office. You can choose to casually message the therapist while strolling through the mall or sit in your car for a brief video session.
Finally, online counseling is affordable!! We all like to save money and many traditional therapy sessions are not something the average person may be able to afford. By keeping cost low, you are able to seek professional help without having to rely on insurance to pay the tab thereby keeping the fact that you are in therapy private.
I’ve never talked to anyone. I’m used to handling things on my own. Aren’t people who go to therapy weak?
Not at all. People who ask for help know when they need it and have the ability to reach out. Everyone needs help now and then. You already have some strengths that you’ve used before, that for whatever reason isn’t working right now. Perhaps this problem feels overwhelming and is making it difficult to access your past strengths. In our work together, I’ll help you identify what those strengths are and how to implement them again in what is happening now.
How does it work? What do I have to do in sessions?
Because each person has different issues and goals for therapy, therapy will be different depending on the individual. I tailor my therapeutic approach to your specific needs. During our first session together, we will come
up with a plan on how to address your particular situation.
The online system is very simple to use. When
you decide that you are interested in working with me you’ll receive an email
inviting you to create a password to enter your client portal. After that, you
can schedule appointments. Prior to your appointment, you will be sent a link
to join the session. You do not need to be logged in to attend you session just click on the link to enter the waiting room.
Is online counseling right for me?
Online counseling has been shown to be just as effective as
traditional face to face counseling. However, online counseling is not for
everyone.
Online therapy is not for:
Actively suicidal individuals
Those thinking of harming others
Those currently experiencing psychosis (audio/visual hallucinations or delusion)
Those with severe substance abuse issues
Those in abusive relationships that may need immediate medical attention or law enforcement (there are exceptions to this, please ask if you are in this category)
Those currently in a crisis situation that may need immediate medical or law enforcement intervention.
What’s the difference between talking to you or my best friend or family?
The difference is between someone who can do something, and someone who has the training and experience to do that same thing professionally. A mental health professional can help you approach your situation in a new way– teach you new skills, gain different perspectives, listen to you without judgment or expectations, and help you listen to yourself. Furthermore, therapy is completely confidential. You won’t have to worry about others “knowing my business.” Lastly, if your situation provokes a great deal of negative emotion, if you’ve been confiding in a friend or family member, there is the risk that once you are feeling better you could start avoiding that person so you aren’t reminded of this difficult time in your life.
How long will it take?
Unfortunately, this is not possible to say in a general FAQs page. Everyone’s circumstances are unique to them and the length of time therapy can take to allow you to accomplish your goals depends on your desire for personal development, your commitment, and the factors that are driving you to seek therapy in the first place.
