[ Frequently Asked Questions ]

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Do I really need therapy? I can usually handle everything myself.

There are times when everyone, faced with difficulties, could use some extra support and  time to focus on solutions, healing past injustices and increasing self awareness. A therapist can listen and offer feedback and specific assignments to help you reach your goals. Reaching out for help is not a sign of weakness, rather it is proof that you are self aware enough to want some changes in your life and would like support in doing so. You are making a commitment to change by seeking therapy, and that is something to be proud of!

What is therapy with Trisha Falvey, MA, LMFT like?

Each therapy session is unique and caters to each individual and their specific goals.  You will decide your primary concerns and goals and I will help you stay on course as you seek resolution and solutions. Many clients come every other week, however there are times when a weekly appointment may be most beneficial to you. While I may offer some guidance in this, it will always be your decision. In between sessions I may suggest you take certain actions that encourage growth and healing. These actions may be reading a relevant book, journaling, practicing new, agreed upon, behaviors, or any number of other options for self care. Some people come into therapy for a short time to target a specific issue or behavior. Others come to do a deeper inner work that may take more time. While there is no specified time frame, I will guide you, with your goals in mind, when it may be time to conclude therapy. At any time you may bring up changes in goals, treatment preferences or time frame. Therapy is your time to take care of yourself, learn new ways of being in your relationships and the world around you. I will be there to listen and guide this process based on your visions and goals.

What makes therapy successful?

In short, you make therapy successful. You do this firstly by finding a therapist with whom you feel comfortable. You need to feel safe bringing up any or all concerns or feelings you may be experiencing without worrying if you are being judged or dismissed. In addition, during your time in therapy here are a few tips for getting the most out of the experience:

• Find a therapist with whom you feel comfortable being your whole self.
• Much of the learning and growth will take place in the time between sessions. Give yourself time to think about the sessions in between meetings. This is an excellent time to journal, reflect, etc.
• If the therapist has suggested homework or an activity outside of the therapeutic hour make sure to try it.
• Let supportive friends or family  know you are starting therapy and ask them if they are willing to hear about your journey and for any support you think you may need.
• Have patience and be gentle with yourself – sometimes the best work comes out of a time of frustration or depression.
• Be the kind friend you are to others – to yourself!  While you are in therapy put yourself and your mental health first.

How is individual therapy different than couple or family therapy?

When an individual comes to therapy the person is my client and the focus is on the individual and personal growth.

When a family or a couple comes to therapy the RELATIONSHIP is the client. There may be times when an individual’s mental health must be identified and addressed in order for the relationship work to be able to occur. However, the focus of the sessions are the relationships between people and giving voice to each person’s concerns and willingness to take a risk and try something new.

May I use insurance?

Once again, this will be decided upon by you. Some prefer to use insurance, some prefer to pay out of pocket and others utilize their Health Savings Accounts. Here are a few factors you might want to consider as you decide.

All insurance companies, whether in network or out of network, require me to give you a mental health diagnosis. Their coverage is dependant upon this and they decide how many sessions or if services are covered based on this.

I am an In network provider for: Preferred One, BCBS, Health Partners, Medical Assistance and UCare. I will file the claims for you. You will be responsible for any co pays at the beginning of each appointment.

I am an Out of network provider for: All other insurance companies. I will provide you with the necessary documentation to file your claims with them. It is up to you to be aware of their reimbursement policies for out of network providers. Payment is due at the beginning of each appointment.

Some questions you may want to ask of your insurance company before coming to therapy:

• What are my mental health benefits?
• Do I have a deductable?
• How many sessions does my plan cover?
• Does my plan cover out of network providers? If so, how much will I be reimbursed for each session?
• Do I need pre-approval from my primary care physician or a psychiatrist?

Is Counseling Confidential?

In general the law protects the confindentiality of all communications between a client and psychotherapist. No information is disclosed without written permission from the client.

The exceptions to this law are as follows:

• Suspected child abuse, dependant adult or elder abuse. I am required by law to report this to the appropriate authorites immediately.
• If client threatens serious bodily harm to another person I must notify the police or the intended victim.
• If client threatens to harm themselves, I will make every effort to enlist their cooperation in ensuring their safety. If you are unable to cooperate I will take further measures to ensure client safety.