FAQs

Do I need therapy?

Most people come to therapy in order to receive help with some immediate stressor or life change, while others may come to therapy for help with a more long-term issue. Too often there are negative associations with being in “therapy.”  However, everyone needs help at some point in his or her life and that help may include talking with someone who specializes in providing counseling. If you are considering therapy, it is quite likely that therapy may help you resolve whatever issue(s) you are experiencing.

 Therapy is there for those who want it and need it. Potential clients should work with their therapist to determine a treatment approach that will be most beneficial to them. Many professionals are friendly, knowledgeable, respectful, people who genuinely want to help individuals and families improve their lives.

What is the difference between a psychiatrist, psychologist, or social worker?

When it comes to therapy, many professions are involved in this type of work. While there are some differences within the broad training of each field, it is important that whomever you decide to see for therapy, you feel they are able to help you with the situation.

Most psychologists have had 4 to 6 years of specialized training in psychology that includes diagnosing, providing therapy, and conducting assessments. Psychiatrists have had specialized training in psychiatry, a branch of medicine related to mental health disorders. Psychiatrists are uniquely able to prescribe medication and make medication recommendations. Master-level therapists may have 2 or more years of graduate training in an array of fields and may be licensed to provide therapy as a Licensed Professional Counselor, Marriage and Family Therapist, or Licensed Clinical Social Worker. 

The bottom line is talk to someone who has experience with your specific issues. Be up front with what you are seeking therapy for and ask them how comfortable they are with working with someone who has this issue. 

What can I expect from therapy?

Your first session is likely to be a little longer than a typical therapy session. It may be 60 to 90 minutes long. The first session is a time to explore what brings you to therapy as well as a time to gather essential background information. Often clients may feel like these questions have nothing to do with the current issue; however, a therapist may need to know this information in order to make sure that they can accurately understand the current problem. During the first session, you may go over paper work and fill out forms. The therapist should explain your rights as a client and the level of confidentiality. The first session is also a time for you to ask any questions that you may have of the therapist as well.

Following the first session, additional sessions are 50 minutes. Some therapists allow client’s to have variable session times; however, most therapists prefer to have regular weekly meetings. Therapy is a type of treatment and as you would not tell your medical doctor how often you will take their prescribed medicine, it is not a good idea to try to lower or increase the dosage of therapy without first discussing it with your therapist.

Do you offer consultations?

No. We believe that therapy quite frequently mirrors your everyday relationships. Thus, if you have a hard time finding the right fit with friends or partners, that may come up in therapy. However, therapy is where you can talk about this misfit and have a professional discuss with you this reoccuring pattern in your relationships.

We do know that individuals want to feel safe; thus, we try to have a robust website to help individuals understand our approach to treatment. We also accept insurance which requires a lot of time and thus, we cannot invest additional time by offering consultations. Please feel free to explore our website and email us if you have any additional questions. Please remember that therapy is a unique process that requires clients to talk…even if they feel they aren’t a good fit with a therapist.

You have students, is it Okay to work with them?

Graduate students in psychology, social work, and counseling must treat patients prior to graduation. They work under the supervision of a licensed practitioner. Advanced students are not only safe to work with but working with them also ensures that they will be better licensed practitioner when they graduate. Working with a student is a great option for individuals who don’t have insurance or who are under insured. Please note that many hospitals are teaching hospitals and have students or recent graduates of medical school performing duties. YNC is teaching mental health agency that helps to reduce mental health disparities by allowing graduate students to gain a robust training experience. Please help make sure we are able to achieve our mission.