Clients have reported both a greater level of comfort and more favorable results when they understand what to expect from the counseling process.
Counseling provides an opportunity for individuals to learn to make better decisions, improve personal skills, develop more confidence, and break through barriers to happiness and better relationships. Exploring and expressing feelings, examining beliefs or ways of thinking, reflecting on patterns of behavior, and working to make healthy changes, are all ways clients can expect to communicate with a counselor.
To get the most from your counseling investment, consider the following suggestions:
• Attend scheduled sessions, they are about 45-50 minutes;
• Be specific about the concerns that led to your decision to seek counseling; It's okay to bring a list.
• Establish with your counselor desired goals and outcomes to be achieved in counseling;
• Discuss your progress with your counselor as you go along, and change your goals if necessary;
• Participate actively, and be as open and honest as possible;
• Be prepared for your sessions;
Successful counseling is a joint process requiring your motivation and active involvement. If necessary, your counselor may also recommend that you schedule a medication evaluation with a qualified physician, such as a psychiatrist. The counselor and psychiatrist work as a “treatment team” to coordinate your care. Studies show that the combined effects of counseling and medication often enhance the treatment effect
I have insurance. Do I have to pay for my sessions?
If you have a mental health benefit through your insurance, most of the cost will be covered by insurance and you will be responsible for a portion called a copayment.
To find out how many sessions are covered and what your portion will be, you simply call the number on your insurance card. The insurance company will provide the information for you.
