Frequently-Asked Questions About Therapy and Counseling
Below are answers to some frequently asked questions people tend to ask their counselor or therapist.
What’s the difference between counseling and therapy?
Counseling and therapy are similar. In the context of mental health, “counseling” is generally used to denote a relatively brief treatment that is focused primarily on behavior. It often targets a particular symptom or problematic situation and offers suggestions and advice for dealing with it. Therapy addresses the root cause and core issues of current problems so that lasting change and personal growth may occur.
Do you offer counseling or therapy?
We offer both therapy and counseling. It really depends on what your issues and goals are. We generally recommend a treatment plan at the end of the first session, and modify our recommendations over time, depending on how treatment develops, what issues may emerge or be resolved, and whether your goals change.
What kinds of services do you offer?
We offer individual counseling and individual psychotherapy for adults and teens. The issues covered in individual treatment include anxiety counseling, depression treatment, trauma resolution, relationship issues, and peak performance for athletes. For couples and parents, we offer specific marriage and couples counseling, and parenting counseling.
Do you offer remote or virtual sessions?
Yes, we offer remote and virtual sessions in addition to in-person sessions in our counseling office. Our counselors have a lot of experience with online teletherapy sessions. If you have any questions about how a telethealth or telemedicine appointment differs from face to face you can ask one of our therapists during your first session.
Do your counselors prescribe medication?
We don’t prescribe medication. Not everyone wants to be on medication or needs to be on it. If we think it may be helpful, we will refer you to a psychiatrist or psychiatric nurse practitioner to be evaluated. Our counselors' focus mainly on using effective evidence-based approaches to alleviate you symptoms without the use of medications.
Will insurance pay for my counseling?
Our therapists are on most local insurance panels, including PacificSource Community Solutions, PacificSource Commercial, First Choice, and Blue Cross.
Another option for counseling or therapy reimbursement is a flexible spending account or health savings account through your employer. These options allow you to pay for your treatment with pretax dollars. Check with your accountant to see if this works for you.
Alternatively, you may be able to use your treatment and transportation costs to and from sessions as tax deductions. Your accountant or the IRS can advise you.
How often should I see my counselor?
Weekly appointments are recommended during the initial stages of therapy. Some clients prefer to come every other week, and some clients prefer twice a week. All of these options are fine. During your first appointment, we will talk about what works best for you.
Is my information confidential?
Yes. As licensed therapists we abide by all HIPPA laws and regulations.
What is therapy or counseling like?
We offer an integrative approach to counseling that will provide you with the benefit of many perspectives. We maintain a foundation in evidence-based, effective practices. We have found that integrating Mindfulness into sessions can help people heal on a deeper level. We work from a theoretical approach called Interpersonal Neurobiology. This means we look at issues through a broad lens including the client’s brain, mind, and relationships. When appropriate, we integrate Cognitive Behavior Therapy and Solution-Focused techniques into a Person-Centered approach. We also offer online sessions for teens, adults, couples, and families.
We hope these frequently-asked questions about counseling and therapy have provided some clarity for you. If you have more questions, We’re here to help. Contact us by submitting a contact form form or calling 541 550-7940 to schedule a counseling appointment.