Frequently Asked Question

Therapy can be beneficial for anyone facing emotional or mental health struggles, whether the are experiencing specific issues like anxiety or depression, or just need help navigating lif transitions or stress. If you find it hard to manage your emotions, feel overwhelmed, or notic patterns of behavior that negatively affect your life, therapy might be helpful. A consultation with a therapist can also help you decide if therapy is the right step.

There are several types of therapy, each designed to address different issues and needs. Common approaches include:

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Focuses on changing negative thought patterns and behaviors.

• Psychodynamic Therapy: Explores unconscious patterns and past experiences to understand current behavior.

• Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT): Helps with emotional regulation and managing intense emotions, often used for borderline personality disorder.

• Exposure Therapy: Gradually exposes individuals to feared situations to reduce anxiety, particularly useful for OCD and phobias.

• Interpersonal Therapy (IPT): Focuses on improving communication and relationships.

• Family or Couples Therapy: Involves the family/couple to address dynamics and communication issues.

The length of therapy depends on the individual’s needs and the issues being addressed. Some people may find improvement in just a few sessions, while others may need longer-term therapy Typically, therapy may last anywhere from a few weeks to several months, and some individuals may continue therapy on an as-needed basis for years.

In your first therapy session, the therapist will typically gather information about you background, current struggles, and goals for therapy. You may discuss your mental health history, any relevant life experiences, and what you hope to achieve from therapy. It’s a time to build rapport and establish trust. The therapist will also explain their approach and work with you to develop a treatment plan.

Yes, therapy is confidential. Therapists are legally and ethically bound to protect your privacy However, there are exceptions to confidentiality, such as if there is a risk of harm to yourself o others, or if required by law (e.g., in cases of child abuse). These exceptions should be explained to you at the beginning of therapy.

It’s important to feel comfortable and safe with your therapist, as a good therapeutic relationship is key to progress. If you don’t feel comfortable or if the approach isn’t working for you, it’s okay to discuss your concerns with your therapist. You may also decide to seek a different therapist who might be a better fit for you.

Finding the right therapist can take time, and it’s important to choose someone you feel comfortable with. Consider factors such as the therapist’s specialty (e.g., anxiety, trauma, couples therapy), therapeutic approach, and whether their style aligns with your needs. You can ask for recommendations from friends or doctors, use online directories, or contact therapists directly to ask about their approach and experience.

Many insurance plans cover mental health services, but the extent of coverage can vary. You should check with your insurance provider to understand what is covered and if you need a referral. Some therapists also offer a sliding scale based on income if insurance isn’t an option. There are also online therapy services that may offer more affordable rates.

Therapy can be incredibly helpful for managing mental health challenges. It provides a safe space to explore your thoughts and feelings, develop coping skills, and gain new perspectives. While therapy isn’t a quick fix, it can lead to significant improvements in emotional well-bei relationships, and overall quality of life. The progress you make depends on your active participation and commitment to the process.

While weekly sessions are common, the frequency of therapy can vary depending on your needs and the type of therapy you’re receiving. Some individuals may benefit from more frequen sessions at the start, while others may gradually move to biweekly or monthly sessions. Your therapist will work with you to determine the best schedule for your goals and progress.

Yes! Therapy isn’t only for people dealing with specific mental health disorders. Many peopl seek therapy for general emotional support, personal growth, improving relationships, or gaining better self-awareness. Therapy can help anyone who wants to improve their mental and emotional well-being or cope with life’s challenges more effectively.

Yes, therapy can help you understand the root causes of certain behaviors or habits, allowing you to work on changing them. For example, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) focuses on identifying and altering negative thought patterns that contribute to unhealthy behaviors. Your therapist will help you develop healthier coping strategies, tools for behavior change, and ways to track progress.

It’s normal to feel uncertain about progress in the early stages of therapy. Change takes time, and therapy often involves confronting uncomfortable feelings and issues. However, if after several sessions you still don’t feel that therapy is helping, it’s important to discuss these concerns with your therapist. They may adjust their approach or suggest different strategies, or it may be a sign that you need a different type of therapy or a different therapist.

If you are experiencing a mental health crisis (e.g., thoughts of self-harm, overwhelming anxiety, or an emotional breakdown), it’s important to seek immediate help. You can contact a crisis hotline, go to a hospital, or reach out to a close friend or family member. If you have a therapist, you should also let them know what’s happening—they can guide you on how to manage the situation and may provide additional resources.

If cost is a barrier, there are options available. Many therapists offer a sliding scale based on income, making therapy more affordable. CMHC strives to work with clients whether or not they can afford therapy, we prioritize the mental health of our clients first. If you have insurance, it’ also worth checking what mental health services are covered.

Yes, therapy can be incredibly helpful for relationship and family issues. Couples therapy can help improve communication, resolve conflicts, and deepen emotional connection betwee partners. Family therapy can help families address and resolve ongoing issues, such as communication problems, behavior issues with children, or support for family members dealing with mental health challenges. Therapy provides a structured, neutral space to work through sensitive topics.