FAQ
How do I schedule an appointment?
You can schedule an appointment by calling 612.618.1579 or visiting the client portal here. You just need to register an account and complete the sign-up process. You will receive a welcome e-mail with instructions on what forms to complete. Once you have complete the registration process, you can log on and schedule appointments up to 60 days in advance. You can also cancel appointments up to 24 hours before.To view availability look for the day, week, month and locate an available time slot. Time slots are highlighted in blue and underlined. Click on the time and schedule. It’s that easy!
What does MA, LPCC, RPT, SEP stand for?
MA stands for Master of Arts. A Master of Arts (MA) in counseling is a humanities-based postgraduate degree. MA degrees are often interdisciplinary, incorporating skills and knowledge from subjects like history, philosophy, literature, ethics, and psychology. Many MA programs require students to complete a thesis or a research project to graduate. A thesis project or research papers are not always req uired, but both involve crafting an argument on a specific topic. Research projects, required or elective, are a great way to bolster your resume. MA in counseling programs offer a unique set of courses and seminars designed to prepare students to work as trained clinicians.
LPCCs are Licensed Professional Clinical Counselors and they are trained to work with everyone, including individuals, families or groups, on any issue that impacts mental health. LPCCs are employed by all kinds of groups, including hospitals, health centers and government agencies. Becoming an LPCC requires a master’s degree, completion of a minimum of 4,000 hours of post-degree supervised clinical experience and passage of the National Counselor Examination (NCE) and/or the National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination (NCMHCE).
RPT’s are Registered Play Therapists and they are trained to conduct play therapy sessions with children. Becoming an RPT requires two (2) years and 2,000 hours of supervised clinical experience (direct client contact); 150 hours of play therapy specific training, 500 direct client contact hours under supervision and 50 hours of simultaneous play therapy supervision. I became a Registered play therapist in 2010 and have continued to participate in specific play therapy trainings and receive ongoing supervision. I regularly consult with a Registered Play Therapy - Supervisor as well.
SEP’s are Somatic Experiencing Practitioners and have gone through a extensive three year, 216 hour, training program. Practitioners have also completed required personal sessions and consultations as a part of the training requirements.
What are the signs that my child may benefit from therapy?
Some signs may include persistent feelings of sadness or hopelessness, angry, persistent worry or obsessing over things, changes in grades, preoccupation with their appearance, a loss of interest in things that they normally would enjoy, an inability to focus or concentrate, experiencing difficulties with sleep, experiencing nightmares, or becoming aggressive.
What are the benefits of therapy?
Numerous studies cite the benefits of therapy and recent research indicates that therapy often can be more effective than medication for anxiety and depression and even PTSD. An article on Huffington Post, discusses the benefits of merely voicing worries and the effect of these on our moods.
A 1995 study conducted by Martin Seligman found that psychotherapy produced positive effects in 92% of individuals who participated in therapy and completed the survey. Seligman (1995) found that the length of therapy correlated with better outcomes. Individuals who were actively engaged in the therapeutic process by being open, asking questions, and following up obtained much improvement.
How does therapy work?
Therapy requires a commitment on behalf of the client to attend, participate in sessions, and commit to the treatment plan. Clients benefit from therapy when engaged and fully committed to the process which can include reading books, communication, written exercises, ets. Therapy requires a partnership between you and the therapist in order for the client to experience the full benefits it is necessary to establish open communication with your therapist. Not all therapists will be suited to the client’s personality and often a client may need to interview or visit several therapists to find a proper match.
How will I know if it is the right therapist for me?
Ask yourself the following questions when interviewing or attending a session: This is not an extensive list but may help you gain some clarity around whether this therapist is a good fit or not for you.
**Am I feeling comfortable speaking to the therapist?
** Do I feel I can be open and trust the therapist?
** Are they listening to me?
** What are their qualifications and experience?
** Is this is person willing to answer my questions
How do I prepare for my first session?
All clients are required to complete intake paperwork here. Clients will receive a reminder of their appointment one to two days prior to their appointment. Have a list of questions and topics ready you would like to discuss. Express your problem clearly and be as open and honest as you are able. The first session will often require a history including family, childhood, education, development and background of the problem. The therapist will want to learn about what is bringing you to therapy. Be ready to answer questions and share about your expectations and hope for therapy. Initially, it is recommended that therapy be attended weekly at least for the first four to six sessions. This can change as your goals change. Also, bring ID and insurance cards since they may need to be copied to your records. Relax and get to know the therapist while the therapist works to get to know you.
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