How long does therapy take?

     The quick answer - until you feel better and are confident that changes are in place permanently.  Often people come for "symptom reduction" and end up going further to improve how they feel in general.  We can discuss this further - there are several different types of therapies to use, depending on how long you think you would like to be in therapy, and what type of problem you are addressing.  Most brief therapies run about 6-8 weeks.  Family therapy seems to take longer sometimes. 

Is it confidential?   

   Yes. You can be assured that what is talked about will be kept private. The only exceptions are information (usually related to diagnosis and treatment plan) required by your insurance provider.  Also, if you are deemed to be a threat to yourself or others, we need to address that as per Massachusetts law.

What if I feel uncomfortable?

     I always recommend that if anyone doesn't feel comfortable in the therapeutic relationship they need to discuss it with the therapist, and then find someone else.  It is very important to feel totally at ease and confident with your chosen therapist.

  During therapy, sometimes feelings can come up that are uncomfortable.  When you feel good about the therapeutic relationship, these are easier to manage.

What about medication?

     Medication can be an excellent adjunct to psychotherapy.  If we feel this is a viable option, we can decide which of the local medication prescribers would be a good match for you. 

How does neurofeedback work with psychotherapy?

     They work very well together - in fact neurofeedback can accelerate the process with talk therapy. For ADHD treatment with children, it is important for neurofeedback to be also linked with family therapy to maintain gains made.  Of course, neurofeedback can be used solo for adults.

How is therapy paid for, and how much does it cost?

     I am on most insurance panels, so if you have health insurance it will probably be covered if you have mental health benefits.  If I am not on your insurance company's panel, and you have "out of network" benefits, you can pay and be reimbursed by the insurance company. My rate is $110.00 for psychotherapy and for neurofeedback sessions.  If you are uninsured or have a special financial situation, we can discuss a sliding scale fee. 

What are the qualifications of therapists?

     There are several types of professional therapists - Social Workers, Psychologists, Mental Health Counselors, and Psychiatrists.  Social workers (LICSW's), Psychologists (PhD.'s) and Mental Health Counselors (LMHC's) provide various types of "talk therapies."  Only Psychiatrists (MD's) and certain types of nurses (RNCS's) can prescribe medications.  Social workers work from a "people-in-environment" perspective.  It means that we work from a systems view -putting extra emphasis on attention to the client's world, including family, friends, school, work and community that impact people's lives.

How do I start?

     It's easy! If you would like a free, confidential consultation in my Hadley office, call 413-531-4492 or email me for an appointment. My office is conveniently located on Route 9 in Hadley, with free on-site parking and located on the bus route.