1(319)382-8665 sara@turningPttherapy.com

Frequently Asked Questions

I’ve never talked to anyone. I’m used to handling things on my own. Aren’t people who go to psychotherapy weak?

Absolutely not. I think it takes incredible strength to seek out resources when dealing with something that’s new or different from the last time it happened. It’s scary to be vulnerable and to start working on a difficult situation but it can be done and I want to help.

What’s the difference between talking to you or my best friend or family?

The difference is between someone who can do something, and someone who has the training and experience to do that same thing professionally. A mental health professional can help you approach your situation in a new way– teach you new skills, gain different perspectives, listen to you without judgment or expectations, and help you listen to yourself. Furthermore, therapy is completely confidential. You won’t have to worry about others “knowing my business.” Lastly, if your situation provokes a great deal of negative emotion, if you’ve been confiding in a friend or family member, there is the risk that once you are feeling better you could start avoiding that person so you aren’t reminded of this difficult time in your life.

Why shouldn’t I just take medication?

Medication alone cannot solve all issues. What medication does is treat the symptoms. Our work together is designed to explore the root of the issue, dig deep into your behavior and teach strategies that can help you accomplish your personal and/or relational goals.

Medication can be effective and is sometimes needed in conjunction with therapy.

How does it work? What do I have to do in sessions?

Because each person has different issues and goals for therapy, therapy will be different depending on the individual. I tailor my therapeutic approach to your specific needs. In our first session I will complete an intake assessment and begin formulating a plan for treatment. I also want to make sure that we are clear on the benefits and limitations of therapy so we will spend some time going over various paperwork that I’ve got. I want to get to know you and I also want you to feel comfortable speaking with me. The initial session is designed to make sure we are a good fit for working together. The first session can feel a bit frustrating since it’s focused on collecting information instead of actively working to fix the concern. Subsequent sessions are much more focused on working through the concerns that bring you into therapy.

How long will it take?

Unfortunately, this is not possible to say in a general FAQs page. Everyone’s circumstances are unique to them and the length of time therapy can take to allow you to accomplish your goals depends on your desire for personal development, your commitment, and the factors that are driving you to seek therapy in the first place.

I want to get the most out of therapy. What can I do to help?

I am so glad you are dedicated to getting the most out of your sessions. Your active participation and dedication are crucial to your success. After all, typically we only see each other for a session a week. It’s the work you do outside of our sessions that will really help you see your personal growth and development. I will generally assign some type of “homework” to continue our work outside of sessions.

My partner and I are having problems. Should we be in individual counseling or come together?

If you are concerned about your relationship, and you would both like to work with me, I would initially work with both of you together. After this work, if one of you would like to continue in individual sessions, I could work with only one of you. It is not helpful to move from individual into couple’s work with the same therapist because of potential trust issues.

How long do sessions last?

Sessions are typically 45-50 minutes in length due to insurance specifications. Sometimes sessions may go a bit longer but I try hard to make sure we stick to 50 minute sessions.

Do you accept insurance?

Yes, I am on a number of insurance and EAP panels. I encourage every client to contact their insurance provider and verify benefits and costs as well as make sure I am a covered provider. If you’d prefer to work out a payment without utilizing insurance I’m happy to discuss this on an individual basis.