Frequently Asked Questions
WHY DO PEOPLE SEEK THERAPY?
People seek therapy for a variety of reasons. Some people just want a safe and neutral place to be heard and understood. Some people need help responding to unexpected changes in their lives, while others seek self-exploration and personal growth. Therapy can provide support, problem-solving skills, and enhanced coping for issues such as depression, anxiety, lack of confidence, relationship challenges, unresolved childhood issues, bereavement, spiritual conflicts, stress management, body image issues, creative blocks, and other challenges of daily living.
DO YOU PROVIDE TELEHEALTH THERAPY (VIDEO/ONLINE SESSIONS)?
Yes, we offer telehealth counseling sessions.
ARE TELEHEALTH SESSIONS EFFECTIVE?
Yes, telehealth counseling sessions can be very effective. Many studies have found that there is no difference in the effectiveness of online versus traditional counseling methods. We have found that most clients really like telehealth therapy because it allows them even greater schedule flexibility and the ability to do more vulnerable work from the comfort of their own familiar surroundings. Often, you can even continue your therapy while you are away on business or vacation.
IS TELEHEALTH TEHNOLOGY DIFFICULT TO USE?
If you are familiar with how to use a computer, phone, or tablet, then it should not be difficult to participate in a telehealth session. We have performed hundreds of telehealth sessions and our clients have been able to log-in to their sessions with ease.
WHAT IF I DON’T KNOW WHAT MY GOALS FOR THERAPY ARE RIGHT NOW?
If you are not sure what your goals are for therapy, your therapist can assist you in gaining clarity. During therapy your goals may change, which is quite common. However, establishing a direction for therapy will help you get the most out of the experience.
WHAT BENEFITS CAN I EXPECT FROM WORKING WITH A THERAPIST?
A variety of benefits are available from participating in psychotherapy. Often it is helpful just to know that someone understands. Therapy can provide a fresh perspective on a difficult problem or point you in the direction of a solution. Many people find therapy to be a tremendous asset to managing personal growth, interpersonal relationships, family concerns, and the hassles of daily life. The benefits you obtain from therapy depend on how well you use the process and put into practice what you learn. Some of the benefits available from therapy include:
- Attaining a better understanding of yourself and your personal goals and values
- Developing skills for improving your relationships
- Finding resolution to the issues or concerns that led you to seek therapy
- Finding new ways to cope with depression, stress, and anxiety that are based in evidence-based practices
- Managing anger, depression, and other emotional pressures
- Improving communications skills – learn how to listen to others, and have others listen to you
- Getting “unstuck” from unhealthy patterns – breaking old behaviors and develop new ones
- Discovering new ways to solve problems
- Improving your self-confidence
HOW DO I SCHEDULE A SESSION?
Go to the "Schedule Appointment" page, click on your therapist’s link, and select “Register as a New Client”. Once you are registered you will be contacted to schedule your initial session. You can also locate your therapist on the psychselect.com website.
-OR-
Add our "New Vision Counseling App" to your mobile phone to make scheduling an appointment quick and easy! Here's how to download the app:
- Go to our website (www.newvisioncounseling.us) using your mobile phone.
- Downloading instructions differ for Android and iPhone users:
Android users: Click on the 3 black dots in the top right corner of your screen and select
"Install app."
iPhone users: Click on the "share" icon and select "Add to Home Screen."
- Now go to the "Schedule Appointment" page, click on your therapist’s link, and select
“Register as a New Client”. Once you are registered you will be contacted to schedule your
initial session. You can also locate your therapist on the psychselect.com website.
HOW LONG DOES EACH SESSION LAST?
For Individual Sessions, the initial sessions are 45-60 minutes and follow-up sessions are 45 minutes. For information on couples, marriage, and family initial and follow-up sessions please speak with your therapist.
WHAT SHOULD I EXPECT DURING THE INITIAL SESSION?
Your very first session will be an ‘Initial Evaluation” also commonly referred to as an information gathering session. The more information you share with your therapist, the better prepared your therapist will be to offer you helpful evidence-based guidance.
WHAT CAN I EXPECT DURING SUBSEQUENT THERAPY SESSIONS?
During sessions you are expected to talk about the primary concerns and issues in your life. The therapist may suggest weekly or bimonthly sessions. Some people who are in crisis or extreme distress need more than one session per week- at least until the crisis passes. During the time between sessions it is beneficial to think about and process the things you discussed in session. At times, you may be asked to take certain actions outside of the therapy sessions, such as reading a relevant book or keeping records. For therapy to “work,” you must be an active participant, both in and outside of your therapy sessions.
IS THERAPY CONFIDENTIAL?
In general, the law protects the confidentiality of all communications between a client and a psychotherapist. Information is not disclosed without written permission. However, there are a few exceptions to this rule. Exceptions include:
• Suspected child abuse or dependent adult or elder abuse- The therapist is required by law to report this to the appropriate authorities immediately.
• If a client is suicidal (intends to harm himself or herself)- The therapist will make every effort to enlist the client’s cooperation in ensuring their safety. If they do not cooperate, further measures may be taken without the client’s permission to ensure the client’s safety.
• If the client is homicidal (likely to kill someone else)- The therapist is required by law to report this to the appropriate authorities immediately.
DO YOU WRITE EMOTIONAL SUPPORT ANIMAL LETTERS FOR CLIENTS?
We do not write emotional support animal letters at this time. The liability is just too great, and we believe the laws around such letters are going to change, as TSA is already moving in this direction due to dog bites in airports.
HOW MANY SESSIONS WILL I NEED?
The number of sessions needed will vary by the individual(s) and their specific issues and goals. However, being committed to attending your scheduled sessions, working on utilizing your tools and skills outside of your sessions, and remaining focused on your goals will play a large part in the number of sessions you need. If you are still feeling unsure about whether you are ready to commit to counseling, you should consider trying counseling one session at a time.
CAN YOU PRESCRIBE MEDICATION?
No, we cannot prescribe medication. However, we have a professional network of referral partners that we can refer clients to when necessary.
