FAQS ABOUT COUNSELING AND THERAPY
I know you probably have questions about what counseling is all about. Sometimes it is hard to make that first phone call not knowing what to expect or even what to ask. Here are a few answers to common questions we get asked by clients. Feel free to call me at (832) 663-0455 with other questions!
How can therapy help me?
A number of benefits are available from participating in therapy. Therapists can provide support, problem-solving skills, and enhanced coping strategies for issues such as depression, anxiety, relationship troubles, unresolved childhood issues, grief, stress management, body image issues and creative blocks. Many people also find that counselors can be a tremendous asset to managing personal growth, interpersonal relationships, family concerns, marriage issues, and the hassles of daily life. Therapists can provide a fresh perspective on a difficult problem or point you in the direction of a solution. The benefits you obtain from therapy depend on how well you use the process and put into practice what you learn.
Do I really need therapy? I can usually handle my problems.
Everyone goes through challenging situations in life, and while you may have successfully navigated through other difficulties you've faced, there's nothing wrong with seeking out extra support when you need it. In fact, therapy is for people who have enough self-awareness to realize they need a helping hand, and that is something to be admired. You are taking responsibility by accepting where you're at in life and making a commitment to change the situation by seeking therapy. Therapy provides long-lasting benefits and support, giving you the tools you need to avoid triggers, re-direct damaging patterns, and overcome whatever challenges you face.
What is therapy like?
Therapy isn't as scary as it seems. After the initial nervousness of meeting a new person and opening up to them you will have a safe place to explore how to come up with better ways of dealing with the stresses and struggles in your life. Most people start to look forward to their session and start feeling better soon.
Because each person has different issues and goals for therapy, therapy will be different depending on the individual. In general, you can expect to discuss the current events happening in your life, your personal history relevant to your issue, and report progress (or any new insights gained) from the previous therapy session. Depending on your specific needs, therapy can be short-term, for a specific issue, or longer-term, to deal with more difficult patterns or your desire for more personal development. Either way, it is most common to schedule regular sessions with your therapist (usually weekly).
It is important to understand that you will get more results from therapy if you actively participate in the process. The ultimate purpose of therapy is to help you bring what you learn in session back into your life. Therefore, beyond the work you do in therapy sessions, your therapist may suggest some things you can do outside of therapy to support your process - such as reading a pertinent book, journaling on specific topics, noting particular behaviors or taking action on your goals. People seeking psychotherapy are ready to make positive changes in their lives, are open to new perspectives and take responsibility for their lives.
Are you accepting new clients?
Yes. In fact, I will make every effort to get you in within the week that you call. I know that when you finally get the nerve to call to ask a stranger for help that you don't want to be told that the next available appointment is in three weeks. In addition to couple's counseling, I also treat individuals with depression, anxiety and PTSD. I have worked extensively with Veterans and their families and teens struggling with self esteem issues.
How do I schedule an appointment?
If you have decided that I may be the right person to help you reach your goal, scheduling your first appointment is easy. You can give me a call at (832) 663-0455 to schedule your first session. Be sure to leave a message if we are with a client, and we will call you back promptly, usually within 2 business days.
Do you take insurance?
I am in network with Aetna PPO and United Health Care. I am also work with most PPO insurance plans as an out of network provider. To find out if I am on a specific insurance list please give me a call.