Taking the First Steps
Getting started on your journey can be intimidating. We understand everyone’s circumstances are different and we are here to walk you through each step of the process so you can focus on what matters.
FAQs
A normal session is 50 minutes in length and typically you will meet with your therapist once a week. In special circumstances, your therapist may suggest a longer session or meeting more than once a week. As therapy progresses, the time between sessions may lengthen.
Your therapist will take your privacy seriously, creating a safe place where you can talk without fear of anything leaving the room. In special circumstances your therapist may ask for your written consent to speak with someone about your treatment, for instance, another health care professional.
Therapists are bound by law to disclose personal information in the event that a person becomes a danger to himself or others, and in the instances of ongoing domestic violence, abuse or neglect of children, the elderly, or people with disabilities. Therapists may also release information if they receive a court order.
Your therapist will be able to discuss your questions and concerns about your confidentiality in more detail before or during your initial session.
Employers don’t receive information about the health services an employee receives. For more information talk to your human resources representative.
Your therapist may share certain information about your diagnosis and treatment with your insurance company so that your insurance company can determine what care is covered. Your insurance company is bound by HIPPA to keep that information confidential.
If you choose to pay out of pocket for therapy and choose not to be reimbursed by your insurance provider, your insurance company may not be aware you are seeing a therapist.
The length of time you spend in therapy will be determined both by the issues you are dealing with and the speed of your individual progress. After your therapist gains an understanding of your issues, they will be able to give you a general idea of how long you will spend in therapy.
If your therapist determines that your mental health would benefit from medication, they will refer you to a psychiatrist outside of the practice for a professional evaluation.
Each therapist sets their own rate and will discuss insurance information with you prior to or at the first session. You will need to contact your insurance company to understand if they cover therapy, what your deductible and co-pay will be, and if they limit the number of counseling sessions.
Typically “in network” means that an insurance company has contracted with a counseling practice or therapist to provide therapy at a deeply discounted cost. Wellspring Counseling Center is an out of network practice, which means they are not contracted with any particular insurance company.
Unless special arrangements are made with your therapist, payment for therapy will be collected at the end of each session by check, cash, debit or credit card. If you pay with cash you will need to bring the correct amount as your therapist will not be able to make change.
Our practice policy requires that you give 24-hour notice if you need to cancel an appointment. If you do not show for a scheduled appointment or cancel within 24 hours, you will be charged half the regular fee. If you use insurance, your insurance company will not reimburse you for the fee.
If you will be self-pay or have other special circumstances, discuss your questions and concerns with your therapist prior to or at the first session. They will be able to discuss options with you, and you both will work together with your particular circumstance.
Plan to arrive at lease a few minutes early and have a seat in the waiting room. Your therapist will come to the waiting room to meet you and walk you to their office. The first session will primarily be spent gathering information about your issues and circumstances. You will also be able to discuss questions and concerns about your insurance and payments. Your therapist will allow you to share at a pace that is comfortable for you.
You may choose to reach out by phone, email, or submitting the contact form – whatever way is most convenient and comfortable for you. Please note that you have the option of contacting a specific therapist or contacting a general number for more information.