Why do people seek psychotherapy?
People come into therapy for many reasons. Some need to respond to unexpected changes in their lives, while others seek self-exploration and personal growth. When coping skills are overwhelmed by guilt, doubt, anxiety, or despair, therapy can help. Therapy can provide support, problem-solving skills, and enhance coping skills for issues such as depression, anxiety, lack of confidence, relationship troubles, unresolved childhood issues, bereavement, creative blocks, and spiritual conflicts. People seeking psychotherapy are willing to take responsibility for their actions, work towards self-change and create greater awareness in their lives.
What should I expect from talking with a psychotherapist?
It is important that you talk with your therapist about your expectations and needs from therapy. A good therapist will welcome this, and will want to empower you and not make you dependent on them. Just like any relationship, the more you know and can express what you want, the better chance you will have of receiving it.
You may be entering therapy for the first time and not have a sense of what needs to happen other than you want to feel better. It is important to express this as well.
Remember that therapy, in the hands of a skilled therapist, is a powerful and life-changing experience. It has been shown to be effective for a variety of illnesses and problems. If you need therapy and work as an active participant in your treatment then you can expect that it will be well worth the time and money you invest.
What is Psychotherapy?
Psychotherapy is a process focused on helping you heal and learn more constructive ways to deal with the problems or issues within your life. It can also be a supportive process when going through a difficult period or under increased stress, such as starting a new career or going through a divorce.
How do I know that I need to talk with a psychotherapist?
Generally psychotherapy is recommended whenever a person is grappling with a life, relationship or work issue or a specific mental health concern, and these issues or concerns are causing a great deal of pain or upset for longer than a few days.
How do I choose a psychotherapist?
The key to choosing a psychotherapist that is right for you is to determine what kinds of things are important to you and finding a professional that seems to fit with both your needs and your personality. Often times, finding the right therapist or mental health professional takes more than one try. You may need to “try on” a few professionals before finding one that feels right to you. Don’t be afraid to do this, as it is your well-being and treatment you’re investing in. For these reasons, I provide a complimentary initial consultation which you can arrange by calling me at (626) 463-3170.
Insurance
Services may be covered in full or in part by your health insurance or employee benefit plan.
Please check your coverage carefully by asking the following questions:
• What is my deductible and has it been met?
• How many sessions per calendar year does my plan cover?
• How much does my plan cover for an out-of-network provider?
• What is the coverage amount per therapy session?
• Is approval required from my primary care physician?