Common Questions
Is Therapy Right for Me?
Unfortunately many people today still believe "therapy" is something just for "crazy" people. Nothing could be further from the truth. Most people who come to counseling are in a life transition, have encountered a rough patch in life, are having relationship problems, or are simply trying to make a decision about a life circumstance. Counseling (therapy) is simply a highly trained, objective listener, who can help you find your way to living the life you were meant to live through active listening, helping you see from a new perspective, challenging some faulty beliefs, and celebrating growth. It's really quite comfortable and rarely takes years of work.
Do I Really Need Therapy?
I can usually handle my own 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 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.
What is Therapy Like?
If you are coming alone or as a couple, sessions last about 50 minutes. 30 minute sessions are available at half the price!
We talk about both the good and the not so good stuff going on in your life. Sometimes you walk out of a session laughing and other times you may walk out thinking deeply. Though we will get into your personal life, it's important that you know you have the right to not talk about things until you're ready.
Every therapy session is unique and caters to each individual and their specific goals. During the first session, we'll get to know each other. We will ask you questions about your life, your history, and your goals. Most people come to individual counseling once a week but sometimes people come every other week due to finances or schedules. Homework is in the form of you trying out a new behavior or journaling or making a significant phone call or writing a letter. Since we are together only once a week, much of your healing takes place through these "homework" assignments and they can be quite powerful!
Here are some things you can expect out of therapy:
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Compassion, respect, and understanding
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Perspectives to illuminate persistent patterns and negative feelings
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Real strategies for enacting positive change
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Effective and proven techniques along with practical guidance
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Referrals for other services that may help you
How Can Therapy Help Me?
A number of benefits are available from participating in psychotherapy. 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 counselors 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 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 include:
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Attaining a better understanding of yourself, your goals and values
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Developing skills for improving your relationships
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Finding resolution to the issues or concerns that led you to seek therapy
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Learning new ways to cope with stress and anxiety
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Managing anger, grief, depression, and other emotional pressures
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Improving communications and listening skills
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Changing old behavior patterns and developing new ones
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Discovering new ways to solve problems in your family or marriage
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Improving your self-esteem and boosting self-confidence
Is Therapy Confidential?
In general, the law protects the confidentiality of all communications between a client and psychotherapist. No information is disclosed without prior written permission from the client.
However, there are some exceptions required by law to this rule. Exceptions include:
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Suspected child abuse or dependant adult or elder abuse. The therapist is required to report this to the appropriate authorities immediately.
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If a client is threatening serious bodily harm to another person. The therapist is required to notify the police.
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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.
Is Medication a Substitute for Therapy?
Most psychiatrists recommend continuing therapy along with prescribed medications.
Do You Accept Insurance?
How does insurance work?
We currently do not accept insurance, however, are happy to supply you with a super bill with a diagnosis and all the codes so that you may submit it to your insurance provider for potential reimbursement or deducible coverage, however, we do not guarantee reimbursement.
If you have insurance and wish to file, please see the information below:
Services may be covered in full or in part by your health insurance or employee benefit plan. Please check your coverage carefully by asking the following questions:
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Do I have mental health insurance benefits?
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What is my deductible and has it been met?
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How many sessions per year does my health insurance cover?
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What is the coverage amount per therapy session?
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Is approval required from my primary care physician?
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Does my insurance cover "out of network" providers?
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Will my insurance reimburse me for counseling with a Licensed Mental Health Counselors?
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Here's what you need to tell them about: Connie Branham, Licensed Mental Health Counselor, FL License MH3357, NPI # 1619182359
How Do I Pay?
The Healing Place clients all pay out of pocket in full at the time of service.
Payment:
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Cash, check and major credit and debit cards accepted for payment. Prior to your session you will receive an Invoice from The Healing Place Counseling that you pay online.
Frequency:
We will discuss my recommendation and what best suits your lifestyle to determine the frequency of our sessions together. Ultimately, whether we see each-other multiple times a month, once a month or intermittently is completely up to you.