What is counseling?
Counseling is when someone helps another who is in need. This can include dealing with emotional, spiritual, or relational issues, or guidance in making important life decisions.
Who needs counseling?
We all need counseling on some level, at some stages in our life. We all need help in handling our emotions, on occasions. Being aware of that need is actually a strength, not a weakness! Counseling is not a sign of being "really messed up"; it's a sign of being human.
Does this mean that everyone needs professional counseling? Not necessarily. Of course, who couldn't benefit from having a little bit of time set aside every week to be listened to and cared for? Ideally, we would all have people like that in our lives.
However, some of us are not fortunate enough to have that kind of network of family, friends, or other trusted caregivers who can meet our needs for support and guidance. Some have even been betrayed by those who should have cared for them.
Even with a support system, there are times when we get "stuck" in life. We come across issues that we simply don't know how to handle. Or you may be dealing with personal issues you don't feel comfortable sharing with someone close. Talking with a professional counselor ensures that you don't have to worry about who will find out about your struggles.
Finally, some of us have special needs that require the help of someone with experience working through those issues: deep past wounds, addiction, depression, marital struggles, grief and loss, sexual struggles, and other issues.
In the end, only you can decide if professional counseling is what you need. No one else can make this decision for you, but I would welcome the opportunity to talk it through with you.
Is counseling confidential?
Yes. All professional counselors are bound by strict legal and ethical confidentiality guidelines. There are a limited number of situations in which counselors are required by law to report certain pieces of information--such as child abuse, or intention to harm oneself or someone else. In the vast majority of cases, however, confidentiality guidelines ensure that your counseling session is a safe place for you to share absolutely anything that you need to share to get the care you need.
What happens in a counseling session?
During our time together you will be able to express ideas, feelings, thoughts, and concerns. You can ask questions, complain, and think out loud. I am there to offer the care, empathy, respect, and dignity you deserve as a human being, a child of God. My aim is to seek to get to know you on a heart level, and provide you with a safe environment to work through your struggles at your own pace.
The deep problems that we struggle with rarely have simple solutions. A counselor isn't be like a medical doctor who searches for a simple diagnosis and prescribes a simple solution. As a counselor, I am much more like a guide who walks with you through a difficult journey.
How long does counseling take?
The number of sessions depends on the issues, how long you have been dealing with them, and the level of support you have. Although some people will see noticeable changes after just a few sessions, three to four months is usually considered brief therapy.
Therapy usually progresses quicker when a person has a strong support system outside of counseling. Those who are more willing to do whatever work is required to get better (including possible "homework" assignments) are also more likely to see results.
How often does counseling occur?
For the majority of clients, therapy occurs once a week. However, in some cases, more frequent sessions might be advisable. This would be something for us to discuss as we begin to work together.
What should I expect in the first session?
In the first session or two, I will likely spend more time asking you for background information to get an idea about who you are. This will help me better care for you in later sessions. If you have pressing issues that require immediate attention, feel free to bring them up right away.
How much will it cost?
$160 per 50 minute session.
Reduced fee sessions are available to those who qualify. Please do not let cost deter you from beginning therapy.
What about insurance?
I will gladly give you a receipt with all the proper coding that you can submit to your insurance provider if they cover Mental Health Services. To determine this, you may contact your insurance company directly. Ask them if they cover an out-of-network counselor who is Masters level trained (MA) and Licensed in the State of Florida. I do not take any insurance directly. This means all sessions are paid for at the time of service.
I do accept most HSA credit cards, however.
What role does spirituality play in counseling?
As a Christian, my belief in God motivates me to love people and care for them, and this belief naturally influences everything that I do.
At the same time, I firmly believe in "client-directed" therapy. What this means is that, as a good counselor I won't force ideas on you, tell you what to do or believe, or tell you how to live your life. My role is to help you walk along your own path, to make your own decisions, and become a more responsible, emotionally healthy person.
I believe that all personal growth is the result of God working in our lives--whether we realize it or not. So, in one sense, I believe that spirituality plays an essential role in all counseling, even if God is never talked about. However, it is absolutely up to you how much you want to talk about spirituality in your counseling.
If you have any questions or concerns about how your personal beliefs might affect your counseling, don't hesitate to ask.
Schedule a Session Today
Don't wait another moment to be on your way to your life, better. Let me bring my knowledge and years of expertise to work for you. Call today at (850) 842-8777 (or fill out the form below)