FAQS
HOW LONG IS A SESSION?
Sessions are typically 55 minutes unless otherwise discussed.
WHAT WILL THE FIRST COUNSELING SESSION LOOK LIKE?
The first session is typically an intake interview, and your counselor will be asking many questions to get a thorough history so they may examine your needs and goals. This session may last just over an hour. If this is your first time in therapy, you may feel emotional. Please know it is a safe space to experience any emotions that come up. If at any point you decide you do not wish to continue, you are not obligated to stay. Take care of yourself by having tissues and water available (if telehealth), and you may consider bringing something to write on.
DO YOU OFFER SLIDING SCALE RATES?
Elizabeth offers a limited number of sliding scale appointments.
HOW DO TELETHERAPY SESSIONS WORK?
Doxy.me is used for all teletherapy appointments. No special equipment is required, and you can log on from a computer, tablet, or phone. You may want to log on 5-10 minutes before your session begins and complete the pre-call test to ensure your audio and video equipment are set up. If the counselor and client are disconnected multiple times, counselor may consider switching to audio call while remaining online through doxy.me.
HOW WILL I KNOW IF COUNSELING IS EFFECTIVE?
You and your counselor will identify goals in the first couple sessions which your counselor will be monitoring closely throughout your treatment. If you have any questions regarding your treatment plan or want to make changes, please let your counselor know. If you feel you have improved and would like to discontinue, consult with your counselor to ensure you know how to get back in touch if you would like to return in the future.
HOW MANY SESSIONS WILL I NEED TO ATTEND TO SEE PROGRESS?
This will be different for each client; however, typically you can expect to begin seeing change between 6 and 10 sessions. You might not leave every session feeling better, but counseling is a process and requires work.
CAN I SPEND TIME WITH MY THERAPIST OUTSIDE OF SESSION?
While a close relationship is often established in therapy, the therapeutic relationship is a professional one in the same way that a doctor/patient relationship would be. If your counselor sees you in public, they will not say hello unless you greet them first to protect your privacy/confidentiality. Counselors typically enjoy spending sessions with their clients and wish the best for them which requires empowering clients to make other meaningful connections outside the therapy room.
IS COUNSELING CONFIDENTIAL?
Counseling is confidential; however, there are several exceptions most of which involve safety that your counselor will review with you during the first session. Counselors submit claims to insurance companies for clients who are using their insurance benefits; claims include diagnosis and progress notes. Insurance billing is completed through third party companies. Feel free to ask questions regarding confidentiality during your consultation or intake appointment.