FAQs
FAQs
Answer:
Does therapy really work?
The American Psychological Association reports that research findings indicate psychotherapy effectively decreases patients' depression and anxiety, as well as related symptoms such as pain, fatigue, and nausea. Therapy has also been found to increase survival times for heart surgery and cancer patients, and it can have a positive effect on the body's immune system. The APA also reports that research suggests emotional and physical health are very closely linked, and that talk therapy can improve an individual's overall health. There is convincing evidence that most people who have at least several sessions of talk therapy are far better off than those with emotional difficulties who choose to forego therapy.
According to one major study, 50% of patients showed noticeable improvement after eight sessions, while 75% of therapy patients improved after six months.
Answer:
How does therapy work?
Clinical psychologists use an assortment of evidence-based treatments to help people improve their lives. Most commonly, therapy (often called psychotherapy or talk therapy) is used. There are various forms and styles of therapy, and a clinical psychologist will choose the type that best addresses the person's characteristics, preferences, and goals. Therapy isn't easy, but patients who are willing to work in a close partnership with their therapist often find relief from their emotional distress and begin to lead more productive and fulfilling lives.
Taking periodic stock of your emotional well-being can help identify warning signs of common ailments like depression or anxiety. Such illnesses are highly treatable, especially when they are identified in their early stages, before they get so severe that they precipitate some sort of personal-and perhaps financial- crisis. For some, psychotherapy could prove lifesaving; a recent study reported that depression, anxiety, and loneliness can shorten the life span.
Answer:
How long will it take until I'm feeling better?
Each patient is different in myriad ways. Some people enter therapy with relatively straightforward issues that can be improved in a brief number of sessions. Other patients bring a lifetime of emotional burdens that need untangling. The answer is that the length of treatment varies; some achieve their specific, fairly narrow therapeutic goals in six to eight weeks of weekly scheduled sessions, while others find relief through a longer period of personal analysis.
Patients diagnosed with mild to moderate depression often begin feeling better in just a few sessions. Psychotherapy takes time and work, but as you progress, you learn more effective ways to tackle problems and solve challenging situations. And in the end, you've developed skills and acquired tools such as different ways of thinking, more effective coping mechanisms, and improved problem-solving.
Answer:
How do I choose a therapist?
Psychologists and their patients work together. The right match is vital. Most psychologists agree that an important factor in determining whether or not to work with a particular psychologist, once that psychologist's credentials and competence are established, is your level of personal comfort with that psychologist. A good rapport with your psychologist is critical. Choose one with whom you feel comfortable and at ease.
Answer:
How will I know if therapy is working?
As you begin therapy, you should establish clear goals with your psychologist. You might be trying to overcome feelings of hopelessness associated with depression or control a fear that is disrupting your daily life. Remember, some goals take longer to achieve than others. You and your psychologist should decide at what point you may expect to begin to see progress. It's a good sign if you begin to feel relief and hope.
People often feel a wide variety of emotions during therapy. Some qualms about therapy that people may have result from their having difficulty discussing painful and troubling experiences. When you begin to feel relief or hope, it can be a positive sign indicating that you are starting to explore your thoughts and behavior-for some, this can occur within the first few sessions.
Answer:
I'm an older adult (over age 55). How could therapy help me at my age?
Anxiety and depression can increase the risk of a stroke. On the positive side, a recent study found that being in a good mood can boost an aging adult's cognitive function. Contrary to a popular myth, older adults can change their habits. Research indicates aging does not bring mandatory depression; most older adults are able to thrive despite the expected changes brought by aging.
The aging phase of the life span often brings several expected and unexpected losses. Many are grappling with mental health issues unaddressed for decades, as well as contemporary concerns about new living arrangements, finances, chronic health problems, the loss of loved ones, and their own mortality.
Psychotherapy can equip an aging adult with new coping strategies in the face of new losses. The concept of retirement is evolving; experts now suggest a key component is emotional readiness. It is imperative that an aging adult work with a psychotherapist who has specialized training with older patients. Most older adults grew up in a generation where mental health issues were not freely discussed, and there was shame associated with seeking treatment; studies indicate the stigma is fading.
Answer:
What if I'm afraid of feeling the therapist is judging me?
During psychotherapy, the psychologist listens to what you say without
judgment, no matter how embarrassing, shameful, or frightening your thoughts or feelings are to you. People often reveal things during psychotherapy that are scary and very personal, and the fear of how others will respond or react is normal. The role of the psychologist is to remain neutral and supportive, help you cope better with the troubling situation, and work with you to find a good solution to your concerns.
Answer:
What does a therapy session cost? How is payment made?
A typical individual therapy session is 50 minutes long and costs $250. Longer sessions are billed at a higher rate. A sliding fee scale is available to a limited number of patients. Payment is required in cash or check at each therapy session. There is no monthly billing. Fee arrangements should be discussed with your therapist in the initial telephone consultation or no later than the end of the first therapy session.
Answer:
I have a full-time job; does that mean I can't have therapy?
Many people who work full-time during the week find a way to fit in their psychotherapy session if it's important to them. Some people schedule an appointment during their lunch hour; others decide with their employer to leave early one day a week. Others find a therapist who offers after-hours sessions. At Encino Psychotherapy, there is a waiting list for those who want to schedule an evening session.
Answer:
Do you accept insurance?
Medicare (and supplemental plans) is accepted for aging adults. Insurance companies will not be billed directly. If a patient has insurance, he or she may request a monthly bill to submit to their insurance company for reimbursement. Many insurance companies will reimburse a percentage of the fee for an out-of-network provider; many PPO plans reimburse from 40% to 60% of psychotherapy fees. It is recommended that patients with insurance contact their carrier before starting therapy to learn the details of their company's reimbursement.