1. I’m nervous about counseling. What if this isn’t a good fit.
Most people are nervous when they make the first phone call or come in for the first time. There is no obligation to continue with us if you feel the fit is wrong. In fact, we will provide you with referrals to other therapists that might better suit your needs. However, our invitation is that you let us know about your concerns so we can we can have a conversation about your feelings and possibly work through them.
My best advice is don’t let the fear of a bad fit keep you from trying. Our job is to meet you where you are and to help you get the feel of how counseling works and then be open and curious about righting things where they are “off.”
2. My problems are so overwhelming. I don’t know where to start.
One beauty of therapy is that over time, challenges and problems no longer seem so entangled. We find light and we open pathways. Simply talk about that overwhelming feeling can be so helpful.
3. Should I come alone or bring my child or my partner? I don’t know who needs therapy more, or where to begin.
If you are reading this, then you should come. Let’s talk about your concerns and figure out a plan. Yes, all family members can work with the same therapist. At times it may be more beneficial to bring in another therapist. We can talk that through with you and we will make a clear plan together.
4. Do you work with all ages of clients?
Yes, we work with:
- Preschoolers ages 5 and 6
- Elementary school children
- Teenagers
- Young adults
- Mature adults
- Singles–all genders welcome
- Couples–married or otherwise
5. Do you work with couples?
Yes. Jill Smith has advanced training in couples counseling and this is an integral part of our practice. Terri Hallman is receiving training in 2019 and 2020 and is able to work with couples as well. Couples work is so complex, we regularly provide consultation and case review.
6. Can you work with me individually, as well as with me and my partner?
Often it is ideal to work with one or the other—either you as an individual client or you come in as a couple. However, this is not a hard and fast rule. We can discuss combinations of both. A lot will depend on how safe that feels to you, and the strength of your relationship. We can plan this with you on a case-by-case basis.
7. My husband/wife and I are in crisis. We don’t know if we want to save our marriage, or plan for separation. We aren’t really ready for “marriage counseling” – can you help?
Yes. This heartbreaking conundrum is extremely common. We can help you discern where you are in your marriage journey. There is hope for a clear path. Let’s start and we can make a plan for each next step.
8. I have insurance that will help pay for therapy. Do you take insurance?
In general, we do not take insurance, but will provide you with a receipt that has all the codes insurance companies require. (There are exceptions: We all accept two forms of Medicaid. And one of our therapists, Terri Hallman, accepts some BCBS plans.)