Does Counseling/Therapy Really Help?

What is Counseling?

Counseling is when you meet with a trained professional to discuss the issues, concerns, conflicts, and stressors that are happening in your life. Part of the magic of counseling is saying out loud what is bothering you inside.  It is often referred to as “talk therapy”.  This is done in a traditional therapy office or via Teletherapy (online/virtually).  The counseling process is done in a conversational manner between the therapist and the client (s).  It is often likened to the therapist walking beside the client and guiding them on their path of growth and healing. 

How is counseling different than me talking to a friend?

Talking with a friend can make you feel better, and you will hopefully get some good, sound advice from them. Counseling on the other hand, is talking in a purposeful way where the therapist uses their knowledge and experience to guide the conversation. During the sessions, the therapist will assist you with deeper exploration and provide a new self-awareness that can lead to healing and permanent change.

What types of Counseling are there?

There are many different types of counseling and specialties. 

– Therapists treat certain populations. These populations can be age specific, diagnosis specific, etc. For example, a therapist may only treat angry adolescents.

–  Therapists can have different number of people in the session. For example, one person (individual therapy), couples (relationship therapy), whole families (family therapy), or a group of people with similar issues (group therapy). 

–  There are a vast number of theoretical approaches to counseling.  A few examples are: Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Psychoanalysis, DBT (Dialectical Behavioral Therapy), Brief Solution-Focused Therapy.

How do you pay for Counseling?

Payment for counseling is done through various avenues.  You can use your insurance if the therapist is in your network.   Or select an out of network therapist if you have out of network benefits or want to submit claims yourself.  And there is the traditional cash pay. Some therapists do not accept insurance, and some do. It is always best to check with the practice prior to making your first appointment.  It is also recommended that you call your insurance company so you are knowledgeable about your benefits and what portion will be your responsibility.  

*Please be aware that using your insurance means that contractually, the therapist must provide a mental health diagnosis to submit claims. The insurance company can request medical records to determine if the treatment meets medical necessity.  For this reason, some clients opt to be cash pay when their privacy is a concern.