Why do I have to setup an appointment to be seen? Why can't I just walk in?

Operating hours vary at Community Connection Counseling PLLC. There are forms to fill out before beginning therapy. It is important to setup an appointment to assure that the process is facilitated.

Why can't I use my insurance at Community Connection Counseling?

One of the biggest benefits of paying out of pocket is that you avoid the risk of receiving a hefty surprise bill in your mailbox if your services are not covered. There are ways to receive reimbursement from your employer for out of network services if they offer this option. Check with your employer to inquire to see if this is offered. Insurance is something that could be accepted at our practice in the future. Keep checking back or call to inquire.

Is there a penalty fee for missing an appointment?

Yes. If you do not show up for your scheduled therapy appointment, and you have not notified us at least 24 hours in advance, you will be required to pay the next session in full before rescheduling an appointment. You will not be able to reschedule until the fee is paid in full.

Is EMDR the same as hypnosis?

No. EMDR uses a grounding technique called bilateral stimulation to keep a person grounded when reprocessing something traumatic. It keeps the brain from shutting down the way it did when the client experienced the trauma. The client is conscious and aware the whole time.

Is therapy right for me?

Seeking therapy is an individual choice. There are many reasons why people come to therapy. Sometimes it is to deal with long-standing psychological issues or problems with anxiety or depression. Other times it is in response to unexpected changes in one's life such as a divorce, phase of life changes, or work transition. Working with a therapist can help provide insight, support, and new strategies for all types of life challenges or a different understanding of the situation. Therapy can help a person examine and address many types of issues including depression, anxiety, conflict, grief, stress management, body-image issues, and general life transitions. Therapy is right for anyone who is interested in getting the most out of their life by taking responsibility, creating greater self-awareness, and working towards change in their lives. Therapy is a collaborative process between the therapist and the client. Progress depends on multiple factors such as the client's motivation, commitment to treatment, and therapeutic connection and fit. As you begin to explore this option take time to celebrate that you have already taken the first critical step, the step of consideration which should not be taken lightly it is powerful and empowering.

Do I really need therapy? I can usually handle my problems.

Everyone goes through challenging situations in life, and while you may have successfully navigated through other difficulties you've faced, there's nothing wrong with seeking out extra support and consultation when you need it. In fact, therapy is for people who have enough self-awareness to realize they need a helping hand, and that is something to be admired. You are taking responsibility by accepting where you're at in life and making a commitment to change the situation by seeking therapy. Therapy provides long-lasting benefits and support, giving you the tools you need to avoid triggers, re-direct damaging patterns, and overcome whatever challenges you face.

How can therapy help me?

A number of benefits are available from participating in therapy. Therapists can provide support, problem-solving skills, and enhanced coping strategies for issues such as depression, anxiety, relationship troubles, unresolved childhood issues, grief, stress management, body image issues, and creative blocks. Many people also find that therapists can be a tremendous asset to managing personal growth, interpersonal relationships, family concerns, marriage issues, and the hassles of daily life. Therapists can provide a fresh perspective on a difficult problem or point you in the direction of a possible solution. The benefits you obtain from therapy depend on how well you use the process and put into practice what you learn. Some of the benefits available from therapy may include:

• Attaining a better understanding of yourself, your goals, and values
• Developing skills for improving your relationships
• Finding resolution to the issues or concerns that led you to seek therapy
• Learning new ways to cope with stress and anxiety
• Managing anger, grief, depression, and other emotional pressures
• Improving communications and listening skills
• Changing old behavior patterns and developing new ones
• Discovering new ways to solve problems in your family or marriage
• Improving your self-esteem and boosting self-confidence

What is therapy like?

Every therapy session is unique and caters to each individual and their specific goals. It is standard for therapists to discuss the primary issues and concerns in your life during therapy sessions. It is common to schedule a series of weekly sessions, where each session lasts around fifty minutes. Therapy can be short-term, focusing on a specific issue, or longer-term, addressing more complex issues or ongoing personal growth. There may be times when you are asked to take certain actions outside of the therapy sessions, such as reading a relevant book or keeping records to track certain behaviors. It is important to process what has been discussed and integrate it into your life between sessions. For therapy to be most effective you must be an active participant, both during and between the sessions. People seeking psychotherapy are willing to take responsibility for their actions, work towards self-change and create greater awareness in their lives. Here are some things you can expect out of therapy:

• Compassion, respect, and understanding
• Perspectives to illuminate persistent patterns and negative feelings
• Strategies for enacting positive change
• An active relationship
• Effective and proven techniques along with practical guidance

Is medication a substitute for therapy?

In some cases, a combination of medication and therapy is the right course of action. Working with your medical doctor you can determine what's best for you. It is well established that the long-term solution to mental and emotional problems and the pain they cause cannot be solved solely by medication. Instead of just treating the symptom, therapy addresses the cause of our distress and the behavior patterns that curb our progress. You can best achieve sustainable growth and a greater sense of well-being with an integrative approach to wellness. Although there are no guarantees of what you may experience, participating in therapy often provides feelings of well-being, feelings of empowerment and efficacy, and decreased distress.

Is therapy confidential?

In general, the law protects the confidentiality of all communications between a client and therapist. No information is disclosed without prior written permission from the client.

However, there are some exceptions required by law to this rule. Exceptions include:

• Suspected child abuse or dependent adult or elder abuse. The therapist is required to report this to the appropriate authorities immediately.
• If a client is threatening serious bodily harm to another person. The therapist is required to notify the police.
• If a client intends to harm himself or herself. The therapist will make every effort to work with the individual to ensure their safety. However, if an individual does not cooperate, additional measures may need to be taken.