What exactly is therapy anyway?
Therapy is a collaborative working relationship. The therapist is an ally who facilitates the process in ways that are directly guided by the needs, wants, and goals of you, the client. Initial goals are determined during the intake session, and fine-tuned during therapy. This is achieved through active listening on the part of the therapist, and the trust and willingness on behalf of the client. The therapist responds by providing emotional support, therapeutic feedback, and practical skills. This process depends on the active participation of both parties; the therapist does not “give” or “bestow” solutions. The therapist assists the client to identify and achieve their desired results. This motivation on behalf of the client results in helpful changes in the client, and/or changes in the client’s life situation. These changes benefit everyday life situations such as relationships, self-confidence, problem solving, and bring relief, increased strength, resiliency, and happiness.
What should I look for in a therapist?
1. That they are licensed- My Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and Licensed Professional Art Therapist (LPAT) status in the State of NJ indicates I have passed rigorous standards that are designed to safeguard you, the client.
2. Experience- Does the therapist have experience in the area of your concern? You can find out my areas of experience by reviewing my list of services here. And, I offer a 20-minute complimentary phone consult to help you decide if you would like to book a session. This call in no way obligates you to work with me.
3. Comfortable connection- Studies show that the biggest indicator of client success is the therapeutic relationship that develops between the therapist and client. In other words, there needs to be a ‘good fit’. This is another reason to take advantage of 20-minute complimentary phone consult I offer. Schedule your call today.
How do I know if you’re the right therapist for me?
After checking for credentials and experience, you need to trust your instincts to decide who is the best therapist for you. Ask yourself, “Can I see myself feeling safe and comfortable with this person? Does it seem like they understand me?” You can figure this out either via an initial phone consult, or during our first session. You are never obligated, nor will you ever be pressured,to enter or continue treatment with me for any reason.
What can I expect from our first session?
First, you may be happily surprised at the inviting setting and warm welcome you will receive. My goal is to make you feel valued, respected, and at ease. Our first in-office meeting is called an intake session. We will talk about your history, what prompted you to seek therapy, and what you ultimately want to get from therapy. If you have completed the intake forms ahead of time and submitted them, it will save time during the session, and we can get a little farther. Or, if you prefer, we can do them together in-office. The intake information is very important, so answer things as honestly as you can. The more accurate your answers are, the more I will know how to help you. Intake is also an opportunity for you to get to know me, to ask any questions you have, and to see how you feel in my office, with me. At the end of the session, we can decide a plan, pressure free.
Please note that this first session is not complimentary; it is a fully paid session. I provide a complimentary 20-minute consult call to assess the fit of my services to your needs in advance, please book that here.
How long will I be in therapy? How will I know when I’m done?
There is no one answer for this question. Each person, and situation, is different. Therapy is customized to you. Some people will only need, or want, a few sessions. Solutions-focused or brief counseling is a valid form of counseling that I provide, which may last just a few sessions. For those dealing with more overarching problems, most people feel improvement in 3-4 months. For others looking to change deeply rooted emotional and relational patterns and belief systems, the process may take longer, even years.
I have worked with people for as brief as 2 sessions, up to 3 years or more. What I can tell you, is that it is up to you. You are never obligated to continue for any reason. You are not contracted for any number of sessions. I can give you an estimate after I get to know you. And, ultimately, your goals will guide us in determining when it is appropriate and timely to end therapy. The goal is for you to feel better equipped to move on in your life with renewed strength and happiness!
How often do I have to come in?
Appointments are scheduled on a weekly basis. Think of therapy as practicing a new skill. When we practice regularly, we build up skill. When we practice sporadically, we build skill slowly or not at all. Therapy in many ways is skill-building. Weekly sessions are an effective and efficient approach.
However, if you are in crisis, then I may suggest adding a session as needed.
Additionally, once you complete your initial therapy some people choose to come for a “tune-up” as needed and are not asked to come in weekly. These options are completely up to you.
Is what I share confidential?
Absolutely. However, there are times when a therapist is legally obligated to break confidentiality:
Harm to self or others. If a therapist believes that you are in imminent danger of hurting yourself or someone else, a family member, police or ambulance will be called to ensure safety.
A minor or older adult in care is in danger. In these cases, Division of Children’s Protection and Permanency, or Adult Protective Services, or the police, will be called.
Your files are subpoenaed by the court.
If you experience a health emergency during a session. In this case, medical staff would be provided only with necessary information. No information about why you are is in therapy is shared.
I will also protect your privacy if I see you in the community. I will not approach you to say hello. This protects you from having to explain how you know me to others, or from being asked “Who is that?” You, however, are always welcome to approach me and say hello. I welcome that.
How long is a therapy session and what does it cost?
Before you begin, I provide a complimentary 20-minute phone consultation for you to see if we may be a fit.
Therapy sessions are generally 50 minutes in length with a fee of $155. Session length can be tailored to your needs on an individual basis. I offer limited sliding scale spots for those in need.
Do you accept insurance?
No, I do not accept insurance. However, I’m happy to work with you to provide statements for you to submit to your insurance for potential out-of-network therapy benefits.
What kind of clients do you work with?
I work with individuals of all different identities, professions, age, ethnicity, gender expression, sexual orientation, religion, family background, and lifestyle. The one thing they have in common is they are all regular people working to improve themselves, and/or their situations.
Who do you not work with?
I do not work with those whose primary issue is substance use, and refer to substance treatment facilities. I also do not work with young children, unless working with a caregiver-child dyad. Also, if you have plans and intent of suicide, I cannot provide adequate services to keep you safe, and would refer you to a higher level of care. I also do not treat those dealing with active and serious eating disorders, unless care is coordinated with an existing multidisciplinary team. Lastly, I do not treat court ordered cases, nor anger management cases. Call for questions.
I don’t want to just talk about how I’m feeling; I want things to change in my life.
Agreed! I would be doing you a disservice if I did not engage you in a therapy that makes real and lasting change. While exploring, we will create ways to move forward with skills and strategies.
What are some reasons people might want to work with you?
People come to me because they need a hand in managing an issue in their lives, that they know they want to improve, but aren’t quite sure how to improve it. Clients tell me they stay with me because I am warm, genuine, and skilled at helping them to get their needs met. They tell me they feel comfortable with me and can tell me anything they need too. Read the client quotations at the bottom of the pages through out my site for direct words from past clients.
Do you have expertise in working with issues like mine?
I invite you to read more about my areas of expertise look at my Services tab. If you would like more information about whether or not my skills would be a good match for you at this time, please contact me so we can set up a complimentary 20-minute phone call. I am happy to talk with you!
Where are you located? Is there parking?
Essential Therapy and Wellness LLC, is located downtown Clinton NJ on Main Street. There is free parking around town. There are also public bathrooms, food, and coffee shops for your convenience.
What if you’re not the right therapist for me?
If it turns out that I’m not the best therapist for you, you are never obligated to remain in therapy with me. No contracts, no pressure.
