FAQ’s About Therapy with Dr. Hefter
How do I know if I need therapy?
Many different concerns and issues can be good reasons to begin therapy. You might feel sad, lonely, or have frequent attacks of low self-esteem, or feel as though you have little control of yourself, or be helplessly at the mercy of your feelings about a relationship, etc. Whatever your situation is, you have probably tried to correct it many times, and not been able to do so. This adds to your sense of futility or self-blame. When feelings or thoughts cannot be understood and used productively as signals, but instead lead you into destructive action (even inaction or inept action), then seeking therapy makes sense.
What is therapy like?
When you come in for your first session, I will ask you about what brought you to seek therapy. If you aren't sure, we can start there. I try to make a safe place for you to talk about whatever is on your mind. The very act of sharing your situation with another person can be relieving and comforting. We will talk back and forth for 45 minutes with a focus on your feelings and what has happened to bring you to this point. This will include your current situation, as well as your history. Over time, as you talk, I will ask questions and offer my point of view. Together, we will find a way of making sense of your situation. Doing so creates not only self-understanding, but a more solid sense of self.
If you are seeking couples therapy, we will begin the same way. However, I may encourage you and your partner to discuss or share things with one another throughout the session, rather than focusing on a discussion with me. I may guide both of you in conversation and will support you in discussing difficult topics as a couple.
What kind of issues and problems do you help with?
I work with people who have concerns such as work dilemmas, life changes, transitions, break ups, marital/couple issues, depression, anxiety and trauma. My clients often find themselves in a pattern of thoughts, feelings and behaviors that have been difficult to understand and change. I work hard to help decipher underlying patterns and sort through your feelings and thoughts. Over time, this process leads to a greater sense of clarity and insight, which results in the experience of expanded choices and a greater sense of well-being.
What would my commitment be?
When you call or email me we will talk briefly to discuss your concerns and then set up an appointment to meet. If we both feel that working together would be beneficial, we'll set up a regular time to meet. Typically, sessions are 45 minutes long and once a week, unless we make other arrangements concerning frequency. At the first session, we will discuss my fee. If you have financial constraints we can discuss the possibility of a fee adjustment.
Do you accept insurance?
If you have insurance, I will give you a monthly statement that you can submit to your insurance company for reimbursement. Insurance does require a mental health diagnosis for reimbursement. You’ll want to check your coverage for mental health services to determine the amount you may be reimbursed. Your therapy sessions can often contribute toward your annual deductible so make sure to review this with your insurance company, as well.
I am happy to answer any other questions during a free phone consultation.
Contact me and I will return your message promptly.