Why do people seek therapy?

People come into therapy for many reasons. Some need to respond to unexpected changes in their lives, while others seek self-exploration and personal growth. When coping skills are overwhelmed by guilt, doubt, anxiety, or despair, therapy can help. Therapy can provide support, problem-solving skills, and enhanced coping for issues such as depression, anxiety, lack of confidence, relationship troubles, unresolved childhood issues, bereavement, spiritual conflicts, stress management, body image issues, and creative blocks. People seeking psychotherapy are willing to take responsibility for their actions, work towards self-change and create greater awareness in their lives.

What can I expect in a therapy session?

During sessions you are expected to talk about the primary concerns and issues in your life. A session lasts 50 minutes, but some people request longer sessions. Usually weekly sessions are best. Some people who are in crisis or extreme distress need more than one session per week, at least until the crisis passes. During the time between sessions it is beneficial to think about and process what was discussed. At times, you may be asked to take certain actions outside of the therapy sessions, such as reading a relevant book or keeping records. For therapy to "work," you must be an active participant, both in and outside of the therapy sessions.

 

What benefits can I expect from working with a therapist?

A number of benefits are available from participating in psychotherapy. Often it is helpful just to know that someone understands. Therapy can provide a fresh perspective on a difficult problem or point you in the direction of a solution. Many people find therapy to be a tremendous asset to managing personal growth, interpersonal relationships, family concerns, and the hassles of daily life. 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:

• Attaining a better understanding of yourself and your personal goals and values
• Developing skills for improving your relationships
• Finding resolution to the issues or concerns that led you to seek therapy
• Find new ways to cope with stress and anxiety
• Managing anger, depression, and other emotional pressures
• Improving communications skills - learn how to listen to others, and have others listen to you
• Getting "unstuck" from unhealthy patterns - breaking old behaviors and develop new ones
• Discovering new ways to solve problems
• Improving your self-esteem and boosting self-confidence

What if I don't know what my goals are for therapy?

If you aren't sure what your goals are for therapy, your first task is to figure that out. It may take several sessions before a direction is clarified. During the course of therapy your goals may change. However, establishing a direction for therapy will help you get the most out of the experience.

Do you accept insurance? How does insurance work?

There is a confusing array of insurance arrangements. The first thing you should do is check with your insurance carrier. Check your coverage carefully and find the answers to the following questions:

• Do I have mental health benefits?
• What is my deductible and has it been met?
• How many sessions per calendar year does my plan cover?
• How much do you pay for an out-of-net provider?
• Is there a limitation on how much you will pay per session?
• Is primary care physician approval required?

Is therapy confidential?

In general, the law protects the confidentiality of all communications between a client and a psychotherapist. Information is not disclosed without written permission. However, there are number of exceptions to this rule.  Please see the section entitled "Privacy/Policy" for more details.  Some exceptions to confidentiality include but are not limited to:

• Suspected child abuse or dependant adult or elder abuse. The therapist is required by law to report this to the appropriate authorities immediately.
• If a client is threatening serious bodily harm to another person/s. The therapist must notify the police and inform the intended victim.
• If a client intends to harm himself or herself. The therapist will make every effort to enlist their cooperation in insuring their safety. If they do not cooperate, further measures may be taken without their permission in order to ensure their safety.

 Please feel free to discuss any concerns regarding confidentiality with Dr. Etheridge.



What is a forensic evaluation?

Forensic psychological assessment or evaluation is done when it involves the legal system, and psychologists may be hired by the court, an agency, an attorney, or an individual.  Courts may request an evaluation to determine whether a person was "sane" at the time of a criminal offense, or whether the person is psychologically competent to stand trial and defend themselves against their charges.  Psychological evaluations are sometimes done in child custody proceedings to assess the parents and children involved.  Recommendations are then made regarding fair and healthy child custody arrangements.  An individual can be evaluated to determine his or her level of dangerousness, such as prior to sentencing or in the process of determining how intense his or her probation supervision should be.  People entering law enforcement careers also may require a psychological evaluation due to the highly responsible nature of their profession.  Generally, a forensic evaluation answers questions posed by some part of the legal system.




Why do people get psychological evaluations?

Psychological evaluations are needed for many referral questions.  Individuals may seek evaluation when they or someone they love have symptoms that make them wonder whether they are suffering from a mental health problem.  A psychological evaluation can be used to both rule-in and rule-out specific disorders, such as Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, Asperger's Disorder, or Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, to name just a few possible diagnoses.  People may have questions about their child's or their own intelligence or academic performance.  Individuals can be evaluated to determine their career interests.  Physicians may require a psychological evaluation prior to certain surgeries or medical procedures. 




Why would a physician want me to have a psychological evaluation?

It is important that people seeking bariatric surgery and certain types of cosmetic surgery to be mentally healthy.  Having elective surgery for the wrong reasons can have disastrous results.  A psychological evaluation can determine general mental health, as well as assess whether a person is emotionally ready to undergo that type of surgery.  Many people do not realize, for example, that depression following elective surgery is quite common.  Psychological evaluation can be a useful tool to assess a person's readiness for surgery and to help them prepare emotionally for the procedure and recovery process.