Q:  What do I need for virtual therapy (also known as 'online therapy' or 'telehealth')?

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A:  You’ll need a stable internet connection, a computer or smartphone, and a private space for your sessions.  Your sessions will be held through a secure, easy-to-use platform called "Simple Practice."  There is no need to download anything on your computer, though you will need to download an app if you prefer to use your phone for sessions.   Instructions will be emailed to you before your appointment.

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Q: Do you accept insurance?

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A: Yes!  Bright Mind Counseling is in-network with many insurance plans.  See Fees & Payment Options page​ for more information.

 

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Q:  What are your hours for availability?

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A:  Sessions are typically offered Mondays-Fridays between the hours of 9am-3pm.  Evening sessions are occasionally available.  

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Q:  How do I know if therapy is right for me?

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A: Therapy can be helpful for anyone who is looking to:

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• create a positive change in their life

• solve a problem they have been struggling with

• gain clarity on a complicated issue

• process a difficult experience or loss

• increase their ability to navigate difficult emotions, situations or relationships

• increase their coping skills for managing life's stressors and challenges

• improve their self-esteem, self-worth, and self-compassion

• learn how to identify, care for and advocate for their needs

• identify and break down barriers that have been holding them back from reaching their goals or living the life they want

• improve their mental health and wellbeing overall

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Q: How long will I be in therapy?

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A:  That depends.   Some people come to therapy to solve a specific issue and choose to stop services once that issue is solved.  Other people come to therapy and find that it is helpful in a much broader way than they expected and choose to incorporate therapy as part of their overall wellness practices, continuing services for a longer period of time.  You and your therapist will continue to explore what makes the most sense for you, and of course, you are free to end services at any time you choose.

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Q: How frequent are sessions and how do I schedule?

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A:  The frequency of your sessions depends on your goals and how often you would like to meet.  Typically, frequency starts with weekly or bi-weekly sessions, and then gradually decreases as therapy progresses.  However, how often you meet is completely up to you.  Scheduling of sessions will be done between you and your therapist, either by email, through the client portal, or at the end of your previous session.  While some people find it helpful to have a set therapy time on the calendar, other people choose to schedule one session at a time.  

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Q: How do I know if virtual therapy is a good fit for me?

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A:  Virtual therapy is a good fit for people who are looking for a convenient and accessible option.  Virtual therapy can easily fit into a busy schedule by cutting down on travel time.  People also enjoy the comfort and added privacy of participating from their home or another private space, as it allows them to avoid any awkward run-ins in a waiting room. 

 

Virtual therapy may not be a good fit for anyone who might need in-person support while in session.  For example, if it is expected that someone may require a safety plan or may need support with significant emotional, behavioral or physical needs while in session, in-person therapy should be considered over virtual therapy.  Younger children who would benefit most from therapeutic activities that include movement, hands-on activities, and other active participation should also be considered for in-person therapy over virtual therapy.

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Q:  Is virtual therapy secure? 

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Yes!  Virtual therapy is done through a secure and HIPPA compliant platform and your therapist will always be in a secure and private space.  Therapy sessions with Bright Mind Counseling are NEVER recorded.  

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Q:  Is therapy really confidential?

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Yes!  Therapists are required by law to keep your records and what you talk about in therapy confidential.  However, there are a few circumstances in which confidentiality may be broken, such as if/when you provide your therapist written consent to share your information with another person or agency, if your therapist believes that you or someone else is in danger, or if your therapist is ordered by a court of law to share your information.  If insurance is covering any portion of your therapy, they will also have access to some of your mental health information.

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Q:  Will I receive a diagnosis?

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A:  Not necessarily.  Many people receive therapy without meeting criteria for a formal diagnosis.  Services for clients without formal diagnoses are paid for out-of-pocket as insurance companies typically do not cover therapy without a diagnosis.

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Q:  How does someone meet criteria for a formal anxiety diagnosis?

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​A:  Mental health is fluid, and many diagnoses (including anxiety) can be thought of as being on a spectrum.  There is a common misperception that we either "have anxiety or we don't."  Every human being experiences anxiety from time to time.  It is a normal, natural and important function that is designed to keep us safe.  However, sometimes people get stuck living in a state of anxiety or experiencing anxiety in a way that prevents them from doing the things that are important and meaningful to them.  When someone experiences chronic anxiety for too long, or too intensely, it can also cause them to shut down, withdraw, or move into a depressive-like state.  Assessing for formal anxiety disorders is done in a specialized way that considers a person from a holistic perspective, to understand how they might be experiencing anxiety on a daily basis, over time, and in different areas of their lives.  In general terms, anxiety might be considered to fall into the category of a disorder when a person's anxiety is interfering with their daily life in significant ways.  However, it is important to know that an anxiety diagnosis does not represent who you are as a person.  A formal diagnosis is more about putting shared language to a common set of symptoms so that a client and provider can develop a shared understanding and vision for their work together.  An anxiety diagnosis is also fluid, which means that the diagnosis itself may change over time as a person's symptoms and experience with anxiety changes.  For many clients, anxiety diagnoses are often discontinued when symptoms have reduced and when clients feel they can manage, tolerate and face their stressors, challenges, and anxious moments with more skills, confidence and peace of mind.

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Q:  I have tried therapy before, and it didn't help.  Why will this be any different?

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A:  Therapy will be different for every person, with every therapist, and at different points in your life and healing journey.  The relationship you have with your therapist is one of the most important factors for a successful therapeutic outcome, as is your willingness and openness to the process.  It is also important to remember that sometimes the work you are doing in therapy is like planting seeds... you may not feel the impacts of therapy until the seeds can take root and grow in and through your life.  Remember, give yourself grace, as it takes time to create new habits, patterns, and ways of thinking, feeling and behaving.  ​​​​​

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