FAQ

We currently serve Connecticut residents with the following insurance: Aetna BlueCross and BlueShield Cigna and Evernorth Optum Oxford UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH Member of Headway & Alma The following are rates for our out-of network clients: 15 minute Free Consultation: $0 Individual Intake Sessions: $160 Couples Intake Sessions: $220 Individual Sessions: $150 Couple Sessions: $200 Sliding scale: Applies if you may be eligible Pay by Paypal, Venmo @PeakworksCounselingCT

The distinction lies between someone who can perform a task and someone who possesses the training and expertise to handle it professionally. A mental health professional can offer a fresh approach to your situation—teaching you new skills, providing different perspectives, listening without judgment, and assisting you in listening to yourself. Additionally, counseling is entirely confidential, alleviating concerns about others knowing your personal matters. Lastly, confiding in a friend or family member during a challenging period may result in avoiding them once you feel better to avoid reminders of that difficult time in your life.

Given that each individual has unique issues and counseling goals, the approach will vary accordingly. I customize my therapeutic approach to address your specific needs.

Unfortunately, this is not possible to say in a general FAQs page. Everyone’s circumstances are unique to them and the length of time counseling 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 counseling in the first place.

It's widely recognized that solely relying on medication doesn't provide a long-term solution to mental and emotional issues and their associated pain. Therapy goes beyond symptom management to explore the root causes of distress and the behavior patterns hindering progress. Sustainable growth and improved well-being are best achieved through an integrative wellness approach. Collaborating with your medical doctor allows for personalized treatment decisions.

Confidentiality and privacy are fundamental to the therapeutic relationship. They are upheld as integral components of psychology's code of ethics. Laws are in place to safeguard your privacy. The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) includes a privacy rule that establishes national standards for safeguarding individuals' medical records and personal health information, encompassing details related to psychotherapy and mental health. We only disclose information in specific situations, such as when a client discusses plans to attempt suicide or harm another person. We are required to report ongoing domestic violence, abuse, or neglect of children, the elderly, or people with disabilities. However, if an adult discloses past abuse as a child, psychologists typically aren't obligated to report it, unless there are concerns about ongoing abuse of other children. Information may also be released if a court order is received, which could occur if a person's mental health becomes relevant during legal proceedings.

In most cases, a parent is involved when a minor receives psychotherapy services. As a therapist, I prioritize creating a comfortable environment for young people to share their feelings while respecting their privacy. During the initial psychotherapy visit, it is typical for you, your guardian, and me to convene and establish ground rules for privacy. For instance, parents often agree to be notified only if their minor child is involved in risky activities.

For optimal results in relationship counseling, it's beneficial for each person in the relationship to have undergone at least four sessions of individual counseling beforehand. This approach enhances the effectiveness of relationship counseling as it fosters a deeper understanding of one's individual self before delving into the dynamics of the relationship. I integrate techniques from the Gottman Method along with other evidence-based and Eastern therapeutic approaches. Following the intake process, we will collaboratively determine the most suitable therapeutic plan.