Common Questions for People Considering Counseling

1. What is therapy, and how can it help me? 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.

2. How do I know if I need therapy? 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.

3. Will my therapist judge me? 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.

4. How do I choose the right therapist for me? 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.

5. What should I expect in the first therapy session? 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.

6. Is therapy confidential? 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.

7. How long does therapy take to show results? 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.

8. Is therapy only for people with severe mental health issues? 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.

9. Can I involve my partner or family in therapy sessions? 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.

10. What if I feel uncomfortable discussing certain topics in therapy? 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.

11. Is it okay to take medication while in therapy? Yes, therapy and medication can complement each other. If necessary, therapists can work collaboratively with psychiatrists or medical professionals to provide comprehensive treatment.

12. How will I know if therapy is working for me? Progress in therapy can manifest in various ways, such as improved coping skills, increased self-awareness, better communication, and overall enhanced well-being.

13. How much does therapy cost, and will insurance cover it? Please see the “counseling” tab. We list our pricing and insurances we are paneled with.

14. What types of therapy services do you offer? 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.

15. How do I schedule an appointment with a therapist? 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.

16. How long are the therapy sessions? 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.

17. How frequently should I attend therapy sessions? 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.

18. How long does therapy typically last? 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.

19. What qualifications and experience do your therapists have? 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.

20. What can I expect during my first therapy session? 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.

21. What happens if I need to cancel or reschedule an appointment? 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.

22. How much does therapy cost, and do you accept insurance? 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.

23. Are therapy sessions available online or via phone? 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.

24. What if I don't feel comfortable with my assigned therapist? 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.