Common Questions about Counseling or Therapy

Anxiety and Relationship Therapist in Boca Raton Answers Questions about Therapy

No matter what you call it - Psychotherapy, talk or talking therapy, counseling, or simply therapy - mental health counseling can benefit people struggling with emotional difficulties, life challenges, and mental health concerns.

When should you seek therapy?

There are times throughout our lives when we may need help working through problems that cause us emotional distress or make us feel overwhelmed and make life feel difficult.  Deciding to seek therapy is not always an easy decision.  Sometimes, others notice we are not feeling or behaving like we used to or that we might be doing things that are not beneficial for ourselves.  Sometimes, we just know something isn’t working or doesn’t feel “right.”  Talking to a professional counselor or psychotherapist can help us find our way through whatever is happening.  It’s different than talking to family or friends as a therapist is objective and has training to help guide you through whatever isn’t working for you.

Does it mean there is something wrong with you if you see a therapist?

There is definitely not something wrong with you if you see a therapist!  We are usually not taught how to cope with emotions which can overwhelm us and lead us to unhealthy behaviors.  Therapy can help you learn about what you’re feeling, why you might be feeling it, and how to cope. Therapy also offers a safe place to talk through life challenges like breakups, grief and loss, divorce, life transitions and parenting issues.

On average, how long much time does a person spend in therapy?

Therapy ends when the problem that initiated it feels manageable, and you’re feeling relieved with control over your emotions and your life.  If you are using insurance, there are some insurance plans that limit the number of sessions that would be covered so that can determine length of time in therapy as well.

How do people find a therapist who can help them?

There are different ways to find a counselor.  One is to start with asking those you know for a recommendation such as family, friends or your doctor.  Another is to check your health insurance list.  Obviously, googling is an easy way to find counseling.  To help know what to ask once you find a counselor that might fit, read Thinking About Going to Therapy.

How much does therapy cost?

As there is no set standard fee, the cost of therapy can vary widely.  According to the therapist directory GoodTherapy.org, as well as web therapy resource Talkspace, mental health providers in many cities charge roughly $75 to $150 per 45-minute session, while rates in New York City can be upwards of $200.  This site www.healthcarebluebook.com/ui/consumerfront gives you the average cost in your area.  If you find a therapist you like and cannot afford the fees, you can have a conversation about reducing the fee.  It’s important to know your income and expenses and what you can afford each month to pay for therapy, and learn if the therapist can accept that amount.  The therapist could inform you what their lowest fee is that he or she could accept.  If the fee is too much, the therapist could offer suggestions for more affordable options for you.  

Remember, it is okay to spend on self care and therapy IS self care!  A study by Chris Boyce found that happiness gained from time spent in psychotherapy was 32 more times cost effective at making you happy than simply obtaining more money.  When we buy stuff, we get temporary happinesss, but what you learn about yourself during therapy can have benefits that last the rest of your life.

Is therapy confidential?

Yes, therapy is confidential and licensed counselors/psychotherapists adhere to a Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice which require them to protect the confidentiality of their clients.  The only limitations to confidentiality occurs when a therapist feels that there is a clear and imminent danger to you or to others, or when legal requirements demand that confidential information be disclosed such as with a court case.  Whenever possible, you would be informed before confidential information is revealed.  

As a client recently shared with me, she comes to therapy thinking everything is okay, cries during her session and feels lighter when she leaves, suddenly aware that when she thought she was “okay,” she was actually carrying around a heaviness that she was practiced at pushing away. Therapy gave her the space to be with it, process it, and let it go.

If you are struggling with anxiety, trauma or difficulties in your relationships, and you feel like therapy might be something that could help you, contact me at 561-406-4398 or email me at laura@lauratraceytherapy.com for a free 15 minute phone consultation.