Common Questions for People Considering Counseling

  • Therapy, also known as counseling or psychotherapy, is a process where you work with a trained mental health professional to address emotional, psychological, and behavioral challenges. Therapists provide a safe and supportive environment to explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences. Therapy can help you gain insights, develop coping strategies, improve communication, and promote personal growth and healing.

  • Therapy can be beneficial for anyone facing emotional difficulties, relationship issues, life transitions, trauma, grief, stress, anxiety, or depression. If you find yourself struggling to cope with challenges on your own, therapy can provide valuable support and guidance.

  • A well-trained therapist should not judge you. Their role is to be empathetic, non-judgmental, and understanding. They are there to support you without passing any personal judgments.

  • Choosing the right therapist is essential for a successful therapeutic journey. Consider factors such as their specialization, credentials, experience, and therapeutic approach. Trust your instincts and look for someone you feel comfortable opening up to.

  • The first session, often called the intake session, is typically focused on gathering information about your concerns, history, and goals. The therapist may ask questions to better understand your situation and tailor their approach accordingly.

  • Yes, therapy is confidential within the bounds of the law and ethical guidelines. Your therapist will keep your discussions private unless there is a concern for your safety or the safety of others.

  • The duration of therapy varies depending on individual needs and the complexity of the issues. Some people may experience improvements in a few sessions, while others may need longer-term support. Discuss your expectations with your therapist to set realistic goals.

  • No, therapy is for anyone who wants support and guidance for their emotional well-being, regardless of the severity of their challenges. Therapy can be beneficial for personal growth, relationship issues, stress management, and improving overall well-being.

  • Yes, involving your partner or family members can be helpful in certain situations, such as couples therapy or family therapy. It can address relationship dynamics and improve communication between individuals. We request you to let your therapist know if you’d like to involve a partner or family member before bringing them with you.

  • Feeling uncomfortable discussing certain topics is normal. A skilled therapist will create a safe space and help you explore those difficult areas at a pace that feels right for you. Over time, as trust develops, it may become easier to address sensitive subjects.

  • Yes, therapy and medication can complement each other. If necessary, therapists can work collaboratively with psychiatrists or medical professionals to provide comprehensive treatment.

  • Progress in therapy can manifest in various ways, such as improved coping skills, increased self-awareness, better communication, and overall enhanced well-being.

  • The Wellife, LLC offers evidence-based practices for individual and couples designed to overcome several mental and emotional issues. Please review our evidence-based practices section to see what therapy is right for you.

  • There are several ways to schedule an appointment with your therapist at The Wellife, LLC. First, once you have scheduled your intake session, you can work with your therapist to schedule additional sessions based on the desired and recommended frequency based on your treatment plan. Second, you can go to The Wellife, LLC website and schedule through the online patient portal. Finally, you can schedule through the Simple Practice mobile app.

  • The duration of therapy sessions can vary depending on several factors, including the therapist's approach, the client's needs, and the type of therapy being provided. Typically, therapy sessions last around 45 to 60 minutes. However, some therapists may offer shorter sessions (e.g., 30 minutes) for specific treatment modalities or longer sessions (e.g., 75 minutes) for more in-depth work. The specific session length will be discussed and determined during your initial consultation with the therapist to ensure it aligns with your goals and preferences.

  • The frequency of therapy sessions depends on your individual needs and goals of your mutually agreed upon treatment plan. Typically, clients attend therapy once a week or biweekly. However, the frequency may vary based on the severity of the concern, progress made, and therapist's recommendation. Some individuals may benefit from more frequent sessions initially, while others may find monthly sessions sufficient for ongoing support. Your therapist will collaborate with you to determine the optimal frequency that meets your specific needs.

  • Standardized evidence-based therapy practices typically result in positive outcomes in less than 10 sessions with 18 sessions being the national average. However, the duration of therapy varies based on several factors, including the nature of the concern, individual progress, and personal goals. Short-term therapy may last a few sessions, while long-term therapy can extend for several years for more complex or ongoing challenges. The frequency of sessions and the client's commitment to the therapeutic process also impact the duration. Ultimately, the length of therapy is determined collaboratively between the client and therapist, with regular reassessment and adjustments made as needed.

  • All clinicians at The Wellife, LLC have advanced degrees (Master’s degree or Ph.D.) in counseling or a related field unless they are under the supervision of one of The Wellife, LLC clinical supervisors. If this is the case, you will be notified in writing before your first session. The Wellife, LLC also seeks advanced training in evidence-based practices meaning most therapists at The Wellife, LLC also have advanced certifications related to their areas of specialty. Please inquire when scheduling if you are seeking a specific model or therapy practice.

  • During your first therapy session, you can expect your therapist to create a safe and welcoming environment for you to share your concerns. They will likely ask you questions to gain a better understanding of your background, current challenges, and goals for therapy. You may be asked about your personal history, relationships, and any symptoms or emotions you're experiencing. The therapist will also explain their approach to therapy, discuss confidentiality, and answer any questions you may have. Overall, the first session is an opportunity to establish rapport, set expectations, and begin building a therapeutic relationship.

  • Rescheduling is simple. You can cancel through the Simple Practice mobile app or notify The Wellife, LLC that you need a different time. The Wellife, LLC asks that you notify your therapist at least 24 hours in advance. Due to the significant need for therapy services across the U.S. and Stark County, rescheduling under 24 hours will not allow others to have access to the cancelled timeslot. Therefore, you will be responsible for the entire fee if cancellation is less than 24 hours.

  • The Wellife, LLC charges $200.00 for an intake session and $150.00 for a standard therapy session. A sliding scale is available for those who meet certain income thresholds. The Wellife, LLC is paneled with several insurance companies. Please review our website to see if your insurance is accepted or contact The Wellife, LLC if you have specific questions.

  • The Wellife, LLC offers telehealth services along with in-person services for all Ohio residents. If requesting telehealth services, the intake session must either be in person or over tele-video. All future sessions can be over tele-video or phone. Ask your therapist about what specific format you would like to pursue before your scheduled session. The Wellife, LLC is unable to provide services to clients from other states that they are not licensed and are unable to provide therapy services for clients who are across state lines.

  • If you don't feel comfortable with your assigned therapist, it's important to address your concerns. Consider discussing your feelings openly and honestly with your therapist. They may be able to adjust their approach or address the issues that are causing discomfort. If the discomfort persists, you can request a change in therapists from The Wellife, LLC or seek therapy at another practice. It's important to prioritize your comfort and find a therapist with whom you feel safe and supported in your therapeutic journey. Remember that finding the right fit is crucial for effective therapy.

  • Waitlist Policy : Due to the high volume of mental health services in the state and county, Wellife, LLC has established a waitlist policy to ensure fairness and transparency in accessing our services. This policy prioritizes timely services for interested clients while acknowledging that placement on the waitlist does not guarantee immediate service initiation. Clients who join the waitlist agree to release Wellife, LLC from liability or harm arising from any delays in service initiation. The waitlist is reviewed monthly to assess availability, and service initiation is contingent upon therapist availability. We inform clients that being on the waitlist does not ensure immediate access to services, and we encourage clients to explore other resources or practitioners in the community for timely support. Clients have the right to seek alternative services that meet their needs while on our waitlist. In cases of a medical or behavioral health emergency requiring immediate attention, we urge clients to seek emergency services or contact local crisis hotlines, as our waitlist cannot accommodate urgent situations. This policy is designed to ensure equitable access to our services while maintaining clarity and respect for client autonomy and alternatives.

    Why do we have a waitlist?: A waitlist at a counseling practice can be necessary for several reasons. One of the primary reasons is to ensure that each client receives the highest quality of care. Counseling is a personalized and intensive process that requires adequate time and attention from the therapist. By maintaining a waitlist, the practice can manage client intake in a way that allows therapists to provide focused and effective treatment without overloading their schedules. This approach prevents burnout among therapists, ensuring they are at their best for each session, which ultimately benefits the clients. Additionally, a waitlist helps the practice maintain its commitment to offering specialized services, such as particular types of therapy or expertise, which might not be available immediately.

     

Common Questions for People Considering Professional Coaching

  • Professional coaching is a collaborative and results-oriented process in which a trained coach works with individuals or groups to help them identify and achieve their personal or professional goals. Coaches use various techniques and tools to support clients in gaining clarity, overcoming obstacles, and maximizing their potential.

  • Professional coaching can provide several benefits, including:

    • Clarifying goals and creating a focused action plan.

    • Improving self-awareness and identifying limiting beliefs.

    • Enhancing problem-solving and decision-making skills.

    • Building confidence and self-esteem.

    • Improving communication and interpersonal skills.

    • Managing stress and achieving work-life balance.

    • Enhancing leadership and management capabilities.

    • Boosting motivation and accountability.

  • Choosing the right coach is essential for a successful coaching experience. Consider the following factors:

    • Credentials and certifications: Ensure the coach has proper training and certifications.

    • Coaching approach: Check if their coaching style aligns with your needs and preferences.

    • Specialization: Look for coaches with expertise in areas relevant to your goals.

    • Testimonials and referrals: Read reviews or ask for recommendations from others who have worked with the coach.

    • Initial consultation: Many coaches offer a free session to see if there's a good fit.

  • You will work with your professional coach to define the parameters around when you can reasonably attain your goals. The Wellife, LLC typically requires a minimum three months to achieve most professional coaching goals. This amount of time will allow the coaching relationship to develop and be powerful even when the going gets tough. We will stay in collaboration and work through to the other side. During the three-month time frame, if there is any reason to change our agreement, I request that we look at the issue(s) and create a mutual resolution that honors client and coach as well as the coaching relationship. After the initial three-months, we will reassess the coaching relationship and continue however it seems best to both coach and client. When it is time to end the coaching relationship, I commit to giving you 30 days notice and request the same from you.

  • Yes, coaching is distinct from therapy or counseling. Coaching focuses on the present and future, emphasizing goal-setting and action plans. It is oriented towards personal or professional growth, whereas therapy often addresses past trauma, emotional healing, and mental health concerns.

  • Yes, professional coaching sessions are typically confidential, and coaches are ethically bound to maintain client privacy and not disclose any information without explicit permission, except in cases where they are legally obligated to do so.

  • Please see “professional coaching” tab for our fees.

  • To make the most of coaching, come prepared with a willingness to engage openly and honestly. Be ready to discuss your goals, challenges, and aspirations. Set specific objectives you want to achieve through coaching.

  • Not all coaches are equal in their training. Each Professional Coach is certified as a Larks Song Certified Coach, a 140 hour nationally approved professional coaching certificate from Lark’s Song in Marion, Indiana. This means that The Wellife, LLC coaches adhere to the International Coaching Foundation (ICF) Code of Ethics in addition to practice from evidence-based techniques.

  • The Wellife, LLC Professional Coaches provide the co-active model of coaching, a collaborative and dynamic approach that views the client as creative, resourceful, and whole. It recognizes that the client possesses the answers and solutions within themselves. Co-active coaches believe in the power of active listening, asking powerful questions, and providing support and accountability. They work in partnership with the client to explore possibilities, clarify values, set meaningful goals, and act towards their desired outcomes. The co-active model emphasizes balance and integration of the client's personal, professional, and relational aspects of life to foster holistic growth and fulfillment. Additionally, each professional coach provides their unique self to the alliance to develop a contract right for you.

  • You can measure progress in professional coaching by tracking tangible outcomes, such as achieving set goals or targets. Additionally, observing positive changes in behavior, attitudes, and skill development in your clients can indicate progress. Feedback from clients about their improved self-awareness and enhanced problem-solving abilities is a good sign of advancement. A growing sense of trust and rapport between you and your clients also suggests progress in the coaching relationship. Lastly, recognizing an increase in client satisfaction and referrals can affirm your effectiveness as a professional coach.

  • The Wellife, LLC professional coaches schedule a discovery session to learn more about your situation and goals. This is a longer session to support development of mutually co-constructed goals, timeframes, and agreements needed for you to be successful.

  • Since professional coaching does not constitute medical consultation or treatment, health insurance does not apply. These fees may be considered deductible business expenses. (Coaching fees are commonly tax deductible as either a consulting or education expense on your Schedule C.)