Frequently Asked Questions
How soon can I get in to see you?
Most clients can be seen within 2 or 3 days of calling for an appointment, and sometimes even on the same day.
Will my therapy be confidential?
Safeguarding your confidentiality is always a priority. What you share with me in a therapy session remains in strict confidence. The only exceptions are those mandated by state law. For example, California law requires that marriage and family therapists report possible instances of child abuse or elder abuse. The law also requires them to report apparently genuine threats of suicide or threats to harm another person. The only other time your confidentiality may be compromised is if a sitting judge issues a direct order to see your records, something that rarely happens.
However, outside of the requirements of law, your privacy and confidentiality are assured.
Do you accept insurance?
Yes, I am on several insurance panals. When you contact me, I will get your insurance information and contact your provider to verify your coverage and whatever copay or deductible they may require.
How frequently do I have to come?
Psychotherapy is most effective, at least at the very beginning, when clients come once a week for a 50-minute hour. However, you and I will work out a schedule for therapy that best suits your needs. If you wish to meet more than once a week, that can be arranged, but if you would prefer to meet less often than once a week, that would also be fine.
How many times do I have to come?
That depends upon your needs and what you feel works for you. In psychotherapy, the healing process, in part, comes through self-awareness and self-understanding. The pace and length of this process depends upon the individual. You will never be asked to commit yourself to a specific number of sessions.
If I begin individual therapy, could my partner or other family members later participate?
Yes, sometimes the brief participation of partners and family members can enhance your individual therapy. As a result, clients have even been known to transform their individual therapy into couples or family therapy. However, such a change is only made after a careful assessment and a thorough consideration of what would be the best kind of therapy for you.
What is a Marriage and Family Therapist?
Marriage and family therapists are trained to provide psychotherapy and counseling for individuals, couples, families, children and adolescents, and groups. They work with clients on a wide range of psychological issues, including depression, anxiety, grief, obsessive/compulsive behaviors, anger, discouragement, family conflict, substance abuse difficulties, and many others. The help that you get from a marriage and family therapist will be largely the same as what you would receive from a psychologist, but neither can prescribe medications. If you feel such medications are necessary, you must speak with your family doctor or a psychiatrist.
If you would like more information, or if you have more questions, please call me for a free, 15-minute telephone consultation for counseling in Fresno, CA at 559-579-8787.