If you have never seen a therapist or counselor, it can be scary knowing what to expect. To help combat those worries I put together this FAQ for Family Therapy list. These are questions I frequently get asked in regards to my practice and family therapy in general.
FAQ for Family Therapy
-
Are you going to ask me “how does that make you feel”?
HAHA! This is such a cliche therapist question. The answer is Yes! I will definitely ask you how it makes you feel. Only I do it in a way that truly elicits the essence of your feelings.
I’ll be honest though, I’m really good at adapting effective techniques to each individual client. Sometimes you just need someone to listen and validate you. Other times, you’ll need a little thought direction so you can figure out the problems yourself. With some clients I challenge them. Each session is individualized to you and your specific needs for that particular week.
-
How much do you charge?
Most insurances cover psychotherapy so your charge is minimal. Usually there is a copay of around $25. If you wish to private pay you can find out my rates on this page.
-
Should I bring my children or leave them with a babysitter?
I recommend you bring your children and significant other. If you need to take time to do individual therapy that is fine too. I love the honesty of children in therapy and there is always an open invite.
Keep in mind that my office is very kid friendly. Typically I take one of two approaches with children – the first approach is to allow them to be distracted by one of the many things I have for them and let them over hear the problems and solutions discussed. Having your children in the session provides more benefits than you realize, even if they don’t say anything. However, another approach is we can deliberately include them; allowing them to share their thoughts on the family struggles, allowing them to create a sand tray box of how they portray the family situation, or many other child psychology tatics.
-
How long do I meet with you for each therapy session?
Each session lasts about 50-60 minutes. With this in mind, it’s important that you show up on time to your session. That way we can maximize our time together and get the most out of your time.
-
How often will I see you?
Honestly, we can be very flexible to accommodate for your needs and your specific situation. Typically in the beginning you will see me once a week and then we will schedule once every other week.
-
Do I have to tell you everything?
Yes! I mean why not?! Ok, you don’t have to tell me everything but the more honest information you share the more effective I can be (in diagnosing, in understanding and in treatment).
There is one thing I can assure you, I have heard it all. Not only from my personal background and history of how I grew up, but from years of being a therapist, you won’t be bringing information that I can’t handle. I only tell you that to calm your mind knowing that my office is a safe space, one where you can share anything (and everything) so we can move forward.
-
What if you can’t help me?
This is a very valid question and one that I recommend we address together. I have had this situation come up before and I feel very comfortable to address this concern right in the middle of therapy. If you or I feel like we aren’t a good match, I will refer you to someone who can better help you.
-
What if I don’t get along with you?
I will promise you this. There will be times when I say something that you won’t like.
There are many reasons I do this, but it’s always for your benefit, for your progress. To stretch you, to open your mind. This challenge can sometimes be met with resistance and I’m okay with that, that’s a natural response. This is all in part of a normal, healthy, safe Client-Therapist relationship.
However if you or I can sense that we don’t get along in general, I will refer you to a colleague for your optimal success. A large portion of therapy success comes in a good relationship. That way you trust me, you feel safe. If that isn’t the case, I will address it openly during a therapy session. It has happened before and I’m sure it will happen again.
The bottom line, I want your success. My job is literally to help you in the very best way I possibly can. If you have any specific questions or concerns feel free to call or text me directly and we can work it out.
