What is therapy and how does it work?

• Therapy (psychotherapy, counseling) is a collaborative process between a trained mental health professional and a client to address emotional, behavioral, relational, or cognitive concerns. Therapists use evidence-based approaches (such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, psychodynamic therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, etc.) to help you identify patterns, develop coping skills, process difficult emotions, set goals, and make meaningful changes. The process typically involves assessment, goal setting, regular sessions, practicing skills between sessions, and periodic review of progress.
  
  How do I know if I need therapy?

• Consider therapy if you experience persistent sadness, anxiety, panic, intrusive thoughts, changes in sleep or appetite, difficulty functioning at work or in relationships, trouble coping with a life change or loss, substance-related problems, trauma symptoms, or if you simply want personal growth or support. You don’t have to be in crisis to benefit from therapy — many people attend to improve self-understanding, communication, or life satisfaction.
  
  What types of therapists are there and how do I choose one?

• Common providers include licensed clinical social workers (LCSW/LMSW), licensed professional counselors (LPC), marriage and family therapists (LMFT), psychologists (PhD/PsyD), and psychiatrists (MD/DO). Choose based on:

  • Presenting needs

  • Therapist training and specialties (trauma, OCD, mood disorders, women’s health, multicultural competency, etc.).

  • Modality preference (individual, couples, family, group).

Practical factors: location, availability, insurance/network, sliding scale, cultural/identity match. It’s okay to interview several therapists before deciding. A good fit often matters more than title.

How long does therapy usually take?

• Duration varies by goals, severity, and approach. Short-term, goal-focused therapy can last 8–20 sessions. Moderate concerns may take several months. Deep-seated patterns or complex trauma can take a year or more. Some people attend intermittently for maintenance. Progress is typically reviewed together and therapy length is flexible.
  

  Are therapy sessions confidential?

• Therapy is confidential with important exceptions required by law or ethical practice: imminent risk of harm to self or others, suspected abuse or neglect, and certain court orders. Therapists will explain confidentiality and any limits during intake. If you use insurance or submit claims, some personal information and diagnoses might appear on insurance paperwork.
  
  How much does therapy cost and will insurance cover it?

• Therapy costs can vary depending on the provider, location, and type of services offered. We strive to make care as accessible as possible and offer a range of payment options, including self-pay rates and sliding scale availability for those who may need reduced-fee sessions. While we are an in-network provider with most insurance plans, if you are out of network, many clients are able to receive partial reimbursement by submitting a superbill directly to their insurance company. We are happy to provide you with the necessary documentation and guide you through that process if needed. If you have questions about fees, sliding scale availability, cancellation policies, or insurance reimbursement, please feel free to reach out. We’re here to help you understand your options and find a path to care that works for you.
  
  
  What is teletherapy and is it effective?

• Teletherapy uses phone or video platforms to deliver mental health care. For many conditions (depression, anxiety, PTSD, etc.), research shows teletherapy can be as effective as in-person therapy. It increases access and convenience but requires privacy, a reliable internet connection, and a secure platform. Certain assessments or severe crises may need in-person care or coordination with local emergency services.