Frequently Asked Questions
What are your credentials?
I have a Master's Degree in Mental Health Counseling and I am endorsed as a School Counselor in the state of Montana with a Master's of Education degree (ME.d.). I hold a state license as a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) in the state of Montana, and adhere by the professional development and ethical standards of licensure. I also am a National Certified Counselor (NCC) through the NBCC National Certification Program, which marks represent a standard of excellence in the field of professional counseling.
Do I need therapy?
Everyone has bumps in their path of life and growth. At times you may be able to smooth the bumps in your path away on your own. Sometimes however, the smooth path you are striving for is a challenge for you and you need a support and guide to help. Therapy can be for people who have the 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 can I expect, and what are some benefits of the counseling process?
Change can happen!!! During sessions you can expect to talk about your primary concerns and struggles, along with your hopes and goals. Your therapist will be working with you to help you gain greater awareness of yourself and others in order to help you realize your goals and changes you want to make – often this includes:
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Developing/strengthening healthy coping and communication skills in a supportive environment
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Developing and recognizing your practical skills to apply in order to help you gain greater clarity, heal old wounds, alleviate suffering, feel better about yourself, and strengthen your relationships.
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Establish control over your life by recognizing destructive patterns and dynamics and breaking harmful habits
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Create healthier relationships and find more positive ways to communicate and connect with those most important to you in your life
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Discover your personal strengths, find your inner happiness, and overcome obstacles in your life
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Develop a better understanding of your own emotions and your triggers, which can help you to better navigate and understand your obstacles and your responses
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Building problem solving skills in order to move through conflict in relationships, life transitions, life challenges, and stressors in your job and everyday life.
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Your personal growth can bring positive change for you!
How do I pay for counseling?
How do I get the most out of my scheduled session?
I will discuss my fees and payment options via phone or email. I accept insurance and also take cash, check, and credit cards as payment if needed. The client is responsible for the fees at the time the service is delivered, unless otherwise arranged. If payment is an issue we can discuss this together via phone.
For therapy to “work,” you must be an active participant, both in and outside of the therapy sessions. Your therapist works to create a safe and candid relationship with you and acts as a trained and empathetic guide, but your motivation and commitment to the process of understanding and growth has a tremendous impact on whether or not you find counseling to be a helpful experience.
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Attend scheduled sessions regularly that you and your therapist decide on
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Be open and honest about the challenges and concerns that led you to seek out counseling
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Together we will establish goals and create direction for your sessions
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Participate actively in the sessions and complete any therapeutic homework
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Start to practice! Integrate what you are learning in counseling in areas of your life
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Be open with your counselor and discuss what is working and what isn't
How long do I need to go?
Therapy is the commitment to improving your mental health. Going to a therapist can be a worthwhile growing and stabilizing experience, good for times when you have specific problems, interpersonal problems, or generally feeling down. You can go to a therapist a few times, for a few months, or embark on long-term therapy. Each depends on different expectations and goals for each client.
Is what I share in each counseling session confidential?
Yes. Confidentiality is of the utmost importance between a client and counselor. In order for growth to occur, a high level of trust needs to be present, thus everything that is shared within the session is kept confidential. Confidentiality and its limits will be discussed in more detail in your first session and is often addressed within the counselor's "Informed Consent." There may be times in which you may want your therapist to share information or give an update to someone on your healthcare team (your Physician, Naturopath, Attorney), but by law your therapist cannot release this information without obtaining your written permission.
Other questions or concerns?
If you have other questions or concerns about your own specific goals and/or needs, please feel free to call or email me. I try to return all calls and emails within 72 hours. Best of luck on your life journey!