What to Expect at Your First Appointment
The first appointment is considered the Diagnostic Interview. Your clinician will obtain information on what brings you in for counseling and go over what you would like to work towards. Our sessions typically last 53 minutes but may last up to an hour depending on what is needed to be discussed in the session. The subsequent visits will be the sessions where you and your clinician work toward your goal. Please read the provided Clinician’s Professional Disclosure from your clinician thoroughly to better understand what their therapy style is and what you can expect from therapy.
For patients under the age of 18, the first appointment will be with a parent or guardian.
it’s simple. we’re here to help.
Your first therapy session will be simple and very similar to going to an appointment at a doctor’s office. What you can expect at that session is: completion of paperwork, going over your insurance benefits and sitting down with your counselor and letting them know what your concerns are that bring you in for counseling. Sounds easy enough right? We’re here to help. Our staff is warm and friendly and eager to facilitate the scheduling of your first appointment.
- Paperwork
At your initial appointment, our administrative staff will be obtaining paperwork (intake forms and professional disclosure for your counselor). - Insurance
In addition to the paperwork we will need a copy of your insurance card and photo ID. - Payment
Payment is due at the time that services are rendered. At this time we will collect your Co-payment, Co-insurance or the full Self Pay Rate.
here is what one of our clinicians and partner has to say about therapy:
The Therapeutic Process Therapy is a process of solving emotional problems with a person professionally trained to help you achieve clarity, insight and problem solving skills you need to attain a more fulfilling life. This process of change will in many ways be unique to your particular situation. It is very important that we establish clear goals within the first several sessions so that we can see your progress. We will try to review these goals regularly. It is important to note that working towards these goals is a collaborative process. It is my belief that, as a therapist, I am here to support, encourage and suggest ways in which you can successfully reach your goals, however you are the only one who can actually make the changes that will necessarily be part of achieving greater emotional health. It is important for you to know that sometimes participation in psychotherapy involves the exacerbation of symptoms, however, over time, you should see improvement. It is my sincerest hope to help you/your family meet your goals as quickly as possible. For some clients this will only require that we meet a few times. Others may require more long-term involvement. Your active participation in the therapy process is necessary for progress to be made and sessions may occur weekly, biweekly or monthly. Your promptness for these sessions will allow you to take full advantage of these appointments.
– Sara Dehart-Young, LCMHC
Frequently Asked Questions
Does insurance cover therapy sessions?
A: Yes, most commercial insurance plans cover therapy sessions. Please contact your insurance carrier for full benefit information. We do not participate with Medicare or Medicaid.
Is the session confidential? Will my employer know if I file my insurance?
A: Your session is completely confidential. No, your employer does not have access to your protected health information without your consent.
How many sessions will I need?
A: Therapy is not a one size fits all. Frequency of therapy is determined between you and your counselor as a team. When you and your counselor feel that you have made progress and have either met your goal or are close to meeting your goal, you should discuss the frequency of sessions. We encourage maintenance after the goal is met, but are completely open to your thoughts regarding your treatment.
Are evening and weekend hours available?
A: Every counselor has their own set hours. We do have some counselors that work into the evening and some that work on Saturdays. Ask the administrative staff what hours your counselor has available during the evening hours and weekends.
Do I need therapy if I see a Psychiatrist?
A: Therapy is usually used in conjunction with psychiatry. Medication prescribed by your Psychiatrist or Psychiatric physician will be used to change the chemicals (ex. Dopamine, Seratonin) in your brain to help with a variety of issues including changes in mood. Sometimes medication is enough and sometimes it’s not. When medication is not enough, that’s where therapy comes in. Talk therapy can help with modifying the way one behaves, thinks or reacts to situations. If you or your medical provider thinks you may need therapy, give us a call for a diagnostic interview.
Is the first child appointment for the parent only?
A: Yes, the first appointment for a child (17 and under) will be the parent appointment.
