FAQs
How long does therapy take?
- It depends on the person, the situation, and what the goals of therapy are. If you have insurance, the insurance may dictate how many sessions you are covered in a given year. My philosophy is to work with you in how you think and feel you are progressing and meeting your goals. I tend to make a 1 year treatment plan with goals set for 3 months; however, that plan is adjustable at any time. In fact, there are some issues requiring therapy that only take 3-4 sessions. Generally speaking, however, I usually recommend that you participate in therapy on a weekly or every other week basis and then reduce sessions to once a month. The overall outcome is not to keep you coming to therapy. And I will always tell you, I am a phone call away...even once you have met your goals and discharged from therapy.
- It depends on the person, the situation, and what the goals of therapy are. If you have insurance, the insurance may dictate how many sessions you are covered in a given year. My philosophy is to work with you in how you think and feel you are progressing and meeting your goals. I tend to make a 1 year treatment plan with goals set for 3 months; however, that plan is adjustable at any time. In fact, there are some issues requiring therapy that only take 3-4 sessions. Generally speaking, however, I usually recommend that you participate in therapy on a weekly or every other week basis and then reduce sessions to once a month. The overall outcome is not to keep you coming to therapy. And I will always tell you, I am a phone call away...even once you have met your goals and discharged from therapy.
What exactly does confidentiality mean?
- A Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) is considered a mandated reporter. There are some circumstances that a LCSW is legally obligated to break confidentiality. Those times include:
1. Harm to Self or Others- If I believe that you are in imminent danger of hurting yourself or someone else. In this case, I will notify 911 and/or a family member to ensure safety.
2. Child or Elderly Abuse- If child or elder abuse is reported or suspected, Child Protective Services or Adult Protective Services will be called and a report filed.
3. Patient Information Subpoenaed- If the court subpoenas your documentation/records.
Otherwise, what is said to me, stays with me, unless you give me written permission to share the information. This is explained in detail in the new patient forms (NPP and HIPAA) and will be discussed during initial assessment.
AND, it should be noted- If you see me in public, I will not acknowledge you unless you acknowledge me first.
- A Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) is considered a mandated reporter. There are some circumstances that a LCSW is legally obligated to break confidentiality. Those times include:
1. Harm to Self or Others- If I believe that you are in imminent danger of hurting yourself or someone else. In this case, I will notify 911 and/or a family member to ensure safety.
2. Child or Elderly Abuse- If child or elder abuse is reported or suspected, Child Protective Services or Adult Protective Services will be called and a report filed.
3. Patient Information Subpoenaed- If the court subpoenas your documentation/records.
Otherwise, what is said to me, stays with me, unless you give me written permission to share the information. This is explained in detail in the new patient forms (NPP and HIPAA) and will be discussed during initial assessment.
AND, it should be noted- If you see me in public, I will not acknowledge you unless you acknowledge me first.
What is a LCSW? And why do you refer to yourself as a Psychotherapist?
-A LCSW (Licensed Clinical Social Worker) holds a Masters Degree in Social Work and a specialized clinical license monitored through a State Board. A LCSW may perform different duties depending on what the LCSW's professional interests are. A Psychotherapist is a term to differentiate that the professional conducts clinical therapy to assist with alleviating confusion. Typically, a LCSW/Psychotherapist has at least two years of supervised clinical experience before working in private practice. A LCSW can assess, diagnose, conduct therapy, make referrals, and more, but not prescribe medications.
-A LCSW (Licensed Clinical Social Worker) holds a Masters Degree in Social Work and a specialized clinical license monitored through a State Board. A LCSW may perform different duties depending on what the LCSW's professional interests are. A Psychotherapist is a term to differentiate that the professional conducts clinical therapy to assist with alleviating confusion. Typically, a LCSW/Psychotherapist has at least two years of supervised clinical experience before working in private practice. A LCSW can assess, diagnose, conduct therapy, make referrals, and more, but not prescribe medications.
How can I get medications?
-If an evaluation for medication(s) is needed or requested, a referral will be made to Leistey Tindall of Mind & Body Wellness, PLLC or Dr. Stephen Narigon of Psychiatric Associates of North Carolina, PA unless you already have a provider or specify a provider of your choice. If you are needing refills, you may continue to meet with your provider. I will ask you to sign a Release of Information so that I may collaborate in your care with your provider as needed.
-If an evaluation for medication(s) is needed or requested, a referral will be made to Leistey Tindall of Mind & Body Wellness, PLLC or Dr. Stephen Narigon of Psychiatric Associates of North Carolina, PA unless you already have a provider or specify a provider of your choice. If you are needing refills, you may continue to meet with your provider. I will ask you to sign a Release of Information so that I may collaborate in your care with your provider as needed.
What is involved in the therapy process?
- Therapy is different for each individual. It really depends on what symptoms you have, what your coping skills are, what you've been through and what you hope to achieve, among other variables. The basics for therapy are the same. You will go through an assessment and design a treatment plan and goals with the therapist. I feel that you know yourself best and I will work with you to design a plan and therapy style that best suits your needs. That may include journaling, listening to music, working on communication skills, having occasional family sessions...it really depends on you and what your needs are.
- Therapy is different for each individual. It really depends on what symptoms you have, what your coping skills are, what you've been through and what you hope to achieve, among other variables. The basics for therapy are the same. You will go through an assessment and design a treatment plan and goals with the therapist. I feel that you know yourself best and I will work with you to design a plan and therapy style that best suits your needs. That may include journaling, listening to music, working on communication skills, having occasional family sessions...it really depends on you and what your needs are.
What is therapy and does it really help?
-The best way for me to answer is this...In my practice, therapy is not about money, looks, me, or even you feeling like I'm going to think you are "crazy" when you share your thoughts with me. When we're together, it's a place for you to get that emotional baggage out of your system and learn how to sort it out so you may feel lighter, free, uplifted. Does therapy work? Yes. It isn't always about talking and listening. Therapy includes so many different options in healing and working towards personal growth. It depends on what you want to gain from therapy and what goals you set for yourself and I am here to help you with that for as little or as long as it takes.
-The best way for me to answer is this...In my practice, therapy is not about money, looks, me, or even you feeling like I'm going to think you are "crazy" when you share your thoughts with me. When we're together, it's a place for you to get that emotional baggage out of your system and learn how to sort it out so you may feel lighter, free, uplifted. Does therapy work? Yes. It isn't always about talking and listening. Therapy includes so many different options in healing and working towards personal growth. It depends on what you want to gain from therapy and what goals you set for yourself and I am here to help you with that for as little or as long as it takes.
What if I don't feel comfortable?
-It is natural to feel uncomfortable in therapy. You are sharing thoughts and feelings with a stranger and exposing a vulnerable side of yourself that you normally don't. Therapy is about change. However, if you feel that I am not a good match for you, that is okay. I encourage you to let me know. I am here to help. I want you to get the best possible care for yourself. I am always open to listening and processing what you are going through. If you feel another therapist may be able to provide you with what you need, I will be more than happy to assist with a referral and/or transitioning your records to a provider of your choice.
-It is natural to feel uncomfortable in therapy. You are sharing thoughts and feelings with a stranger and exposing a vulnerable side of yourself that you normally don't. Therapy is about change. However, if you feel that I am not a good match for you, that is okay. I encourage you to let me know. I am here to help. I want you to get the best possible care for yourself. I am always open to listening and processing what you are going through. If you feel another therapist may be able to provide you with what you need, I will be more than happy to assist with a referral and/or transitioning your records to a provider of your choice.
What if I work or need an after-hours appointment?
-Please call 910-585-6108. I offer Saturdays by appointment only. I can discuss other options on a case by case basis.
-Please call 910-585-6108. I offer Saturdays by appointment only. I can discuss other options on a case by case basis.
What payments do you take? What are your rates? Who do you see? What types of services do you offer?
This information may be found on the "Services" page or call TRUE Mental Health & Wellness PLLC at 910-585-6108.
This information may be found on the "Services" page or call TRUE Mental Health & Wellness PLLC at 910-585-6108.
Questions to ask your insurance provider PRIOR to your appointment
-At times, TRUE Mental Health & Wellness PLLC may be considered out-of-network, so it is important that you check with your insurance provider and understand the coverage and reimbursement of your policy. These are some questions you may ask your insurance provider:
-At times, TRUE Mental Health & Wellness PLLC may be considered out-of-network, so it is important that you check with your insurance provider and understand the coverage and reimbursement of your policy. These are some questions you may ask your insurance provider:
- Do I have mental health benefits?
- What is my deductible and has it been met?
- How many mental health sessions per calendar year does my insurance plan cover?
- Am I in-network with TRUE Mental Health & Wellness PLLC?
- If not, how much does my plan cover for an out-of-network provider?
- What is the coverage amount per therapy session?
- Is a referral needed from my primary care physician?
Have another question?
-Let me know! I'd love to hear from you!
-Let me know! I'd love to hear from you!