Question 1

I’m used to handling things on my own. Aren’t people who go to therapy weak?

Accepted Answer

Not at all. People who ask for help know when they need it and have the ability to reach out. Everyone needs help now and then. You already have some strengths that you’ve used before, that for whatever reason isn’t working right now. Perhaps this problem feels overwhelming and is making it difficult to access your past strengths. In our work together, I’ll help you identify what those strengths are and how to implement them again in what is happening now.

Question 2

What’s the difference between talking to you vs my friends or family?

Accepted Answer

The difference is between someone who can do something, and someone who has the training and experience to do that same thing professionally. A mental health professional can help you approach your situation in a new way– teach you new skills, gain different perspectives, listen to you without judgment or expectations, and help you listen to yourself. Furthermore, therapy is completely confidential. You won’t have to worry about others “knowing my business.” Lastly, if your situation provokes a great deal of negative emotion, if you’ve been confiding in a friend or family member, there is the risk that once you are feeling better you could start avoiding that person so you aren’t reminded of this difficult time in your life.

Question 3

Can I just take medication to fix my issues?

Accepted Answer

Medication alone cannot solve all issues. What medication does is treat the symptoms. In working collaboratively with Dr. C, you will explore the root of the issue, dig deep into your behavior and gain strategies that can help you accomplish your personal and/or relational goals.

Medication can be effective and is sometimes needed in conjunction with therapy. Dr. C is available to provide additional support with you making this decision and becoming comfortable with managing your medication management regimen with your medical provider.

Question 4

Can Dr. C prescribe medications?

Accepted Answer

No. Dr. C is a psychotherapist and not a psychiatrist. 
	Psychiatrists = a type of medical doctor who can prescribe medication.
	Psychotherapists = trained therapists who provide talk-based treatments for emotional   
            healing and personal growth.

Question 5

How does therapy work? What do I have to do in sessions?

Accepted Answer

Because each person has different issues and goals for therapy, therapy will be different depending on the individual. Dr. C tailors her therapeutic approaches to meet your specific needs. All you are expected to do is be present, be truthful, and allow the process to happen.

Question 6

How long will I need to be in therapy?

Accepted Answer

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

Question 7

I want to get the most out of therapy. What can I do to help?

Accepted Answer

It is great that you want to get the most out of your sessions. Your active participation and dedication is crucial to your success. After all, your session will only be held once a week, bi-weekly, or in some cases once a month, depending on varying factors.

For clients who are new to therapy or beginning with a new provider, weekly sessions are
strongly recommended at the start of treatment to establish a strong therapeutic foundation.
At a minimum, bi-weekly sessions are advised to maintain continuity and momentum in the
therapeutic process.

Clients are strongly encouraged to communicate if they feel they would be better served
elsewhere or no longer wish to continue services. Failure to engage in services or respond to
communication for a period of 30 days—unless otherwise agreed upon—may result in being
discharged or archived from services.

Additionally, if a session is not scheduled within 14 days following the initial intake
appointment, this policy may also apply. Once an account is archived, clients will no longer
have access to the provider’s scheduling calendar.

If you are discharged or archived from services and would like to return, you are welcome to do
so pending availability on the provider’s caseload. To initiate this process, please contact the
provider vis email or this site to request that your account be unarchived. You may also be
asked to complete updated intake documentation to support your transition back into care.

Question 8

What can I expect after contacting Dr. C for support?

Accepted Answer

Once you submit your message, Dr. C will do her best to contact you within two business days. Keep in mind this practice is independently operated by Dr. C. Her intention is never to keep you waiting but she is a human helping other humans. If you are interested in a service she provides or unsure of which service to choose please feel free to leave her a message.

If you choose to work with Dr. C, she will respond connecting you with access to her virtual platform and intake paperwork to be completed prior to your first meeting. You can go to https://calendly.com/dr-imatterllc (https://calendly.com/dr-imatterllc)to schedule sessions.

If you encounter any issues with scheduling a session or if you notice any errors related to your scheduled session, please promptly notify Dr. C. Open communication is important to ensure that any scheduling concerns or errors can be addressed and resolved in a timely manner. By informing Dr. C of any issues, you can work together to find a suitable solution and ensure a smooth and successful session.
To ensure a smooth process, it is kindly requested that you complete the initial/intake paperwork electronically through our platform at least 24 hours prior to your scheduled session. This allows Dr. C to efficiently handle the necessary paperwork and ensures that she will have all the essential information needed before your first session.

Question 9

What can I expect for my first session?

Accepted Answer

During your first session, you can expect to review informed consent documentation and go over the information provided in your intake forms. Dr. C will explain her approach and role in the therapeutic process, while guiding a conversation to better understand your presenting concerns.

Together, you’ll explore whether this is the right fit and how support can be offered. By the end of the session, you’ll have the opportunity to share your thoughts about continuing and, if comfortable, schedule your next appointment.

Question 10

What do I do in the event of an emergency?

Accepted Answer

Should you feel in need of urgent help or that you are in crisis at any time:
 -Please call 988 The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline; or 911 for any medical emergency.

-Veterans Crisis Line- 24/7 confidential crisis support for veterans and there loved ones
	 dial 988 then press 1 or Text 838255
	You don't have to be enrolled in VA benefits or health care to connect.

-Call the Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline 24/7 (1-800) 4-A-Child  or (1-800) 422-4453