Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the difference between talking to you or my family/friend?
The difference is between someone who can do something, and someone who has the training and experience to do that same thing professionally. A mental health professional can help you approach your situation in a new way– teach you new skills, gain different perspectives, listen to you without judgment or expectations, and help you listen to yourself.
Furthermore, counseling is completely confidential. You won’t have to worry about others “knowing my business.” If your situation provokes a great deal of negative emotion, and you’ve been confiding in a friend or family member, there is the risk that once you are feeling better you could start avoiding that person so you aren’t reminded of this difficult time in your life.
How long will it take?
Everyone’s circumstances are unique to them and the length of time counseling can take to allow you to accomplish your goals depends on your desire for personal development, your commitment, and the factors that are driving you to seek counseling in the first place.
The mental health condition addressed and its severity The amount of time the person in therapy has had the issue
- How much the issue affects day-to-day life
- How much distress the issue causes
- How quickly the person in therapy improves
- Financial limitations
Some concerns can be addressed through short-term therapy over a few weeks. However, chronic or more complex concerns can require long-term treatment. Sometimes, it may take more than a year for noticeable progress to be made.
I’ve never talked to anyone. I’m used to handling things on my own. Aren’t people who go to therapy
Not at all. People who ask for help know when they need it and have the courage to reach out. Everyone needs help now and then. In our work together, I’ll help you explore and identify your strengths and how to implement them to reduce the influence of the problems you are facing.
I take my meds, why do I still need therapy?
Medication can be effective however alone it cannot solve all issues. Sometimes medication is needed in conjunction with counseling. Our work together is designed to explore and unpack the problems you are experiencing and expand on your strengths that can help you accomplish your personal goals.
How does it work? What do I have to do in sessions?
Because each person has different issues and goals for counseling, it will be different depending on the individual. I tailor my therapeutic approach to your specific needs. You just need to have an open heart, an listening ear, and open mind. You can look under the expectation section of my website to get a sense of how it may help you.
Who can provide therapy? am I qualified?
Many kinds of mental health professionals provide therapy. The standards for becoming a therapist usually depend on a state's licensing board. Therapists often have a master's or doctoral degree. They may also have specific training in psychological counseling. Students working toward an advanced degree may provide therapy with direction from a licensed supervisor.
Therapists can have many titles. These are based on their level of education, training, and role. They can work as licensed professional counselors (LPC), psychologists, licensed marriage and family therapists (LMFT), licensed clinical social workers (LCSW), psychiatric nurses, or psychiatrists. I am LCSW therefore can provide therapeutic services.
Do you offer a sliding scale?
We do offer them on an as need basis each year. We do only offer this service for a few clients a year.
I want to get the most out of therapy. What can I do to help?
I am so glad you are dedicated to getting the most out of your sessions. Your active participation and dedication will be crucial to your success.
Please reach us at sbusseymartin@teatimets.com if you cannot find an answer to your question.