Do I really need therapy? I can usually handle my problems.
Why do people go to therapy and how do I know if it is right for me?
Do you take insurance, and how does that work?
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 difficulties, grief, stress management, 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 everyday life. Therapists can provide a fresh perspective on a difficult problem and 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:
- Gaining a better understanding of yourself, and your goals
- Enhancing skills for improving your relationships
- Finding a resolution to the issues or concerns that led you to seek therapy
- Learning new ways to cope with stress and anxiety
- Managing grief, depression and other emotional difficulties
- Improving communication and listening skills
- Changing old behavior patterns and developing new ones
- Developing new ways to solve problems in your marriage or family
- Improving your self-esteem and boosting self-confidence
Do I really need therapy? I can usually handle my problems.
Everyone goes through challenging situations in their 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. Therapy provides long-lasting benefits and support, enhancing the tools you have and need to avoid triggers, re-direct damaging patterns, and overcome whatever challenges you face.
Why do people go to therapy and how do I know if it is right for me?
There are many different reasons as to why people seek psychotherapy. Some may be going through a major life transition (moving, getting married, having a child, divorce, new job, etc.), or needing support in handling stressful situations. Some people need assistance managing a range of other issues such as low self-esteem, depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, and creative blocks. Therapy can help provide some much needed encouragement and help with fine tuning skills needed to get them through these periods. Others may be at a point where they are ready to learn more about themselves or want to be more effective with their goals in life. People seeking psychotherapy are ready to meet the challenges in their lives and ready to make changes.
What is Therapy like?
Each person has different issues and goals for therapy, therapy will be different depending on the individual. In general, you can expect to discuss the current situations happening in your life, your personal history relevant to your issue, and gain insight into how to manage your stresses. Depending on your specific needs, therapy can be short-term, for a specific issue, or longer-term, to deal with more difficult patterns.
It is important to understand that you will get more results from therapy if you actively participate in the process. The ultimate purpose of therapy is to help you bring what you learn in session back into your life. Therefore, beyond the work you do in therapy sessions, suggestions will be made regarding some things you can do outside of therapy to support your process - such as journaling on specific topics, taking time for yourself or having a date night. People seeking psychotherapy are ready to make positive changes in their lives, are open to new perspectives and take responsibility for their lives.
How does insurance work?
To determine if you have mental health coverage through your insurance carrier, the first thing you should do is call them. Check your coverage carefully and make sure you understand their answers. Some helpful questions you can ask them:
- What are my mental health benefits?
- What is the coverage amount per therapy session?
- How many therapy sessions does my plan cover?
- How much does my insurance pay for an out-of-network provider?
- Is approval required from my primary care physician?
Accepted Insurance Plans?
Blue Cross/Blue Shield
Empire Blue Cross/Blue Shield
Cigna
MHN
Magellan
Qual Care
Beacon
Out of Network