FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONSQ. I have some problems, but how can talking to someone else help? I should be able to fix my own problems.A. First of all, counseling isn't about "fixing" you. You're not broken. Life is challenging and sometimes things get complicated. Think of yourself inside a picture. When you're in the picture you can't see the picture. You have to rely on someone outside of it to tell you what it looks like. The same is true with counseling. A counselor is trained to help you see the situation more clearly and to help you discover your own inner wisdom and strength. The therapist will help you gain confidence and trust in yourself so that you can make better decisions and handle problems as they arise. Q What will happen when I come to see you for counseling?A. The first session is basically an information gathering session. You'll be asked to fill out some paperwork and the therapist will explain your rights as a client. Next, your therapist will ask about the reason(s) you've come to counseling, some background information, and what you'd like to gain from your therapy. You'll leave the session with a better understanding of your situation and some direction. In the second session you'll get deeper into the therapy. You and your therapist will develop a therapeutic relationship-one that's safe, accepting, and confidential. Your counselor will listen, view the issue from your perspective, give you feedback, help you develop your awareness of yourself and the problem and ways to grow beyond it. Q. How long do I have to go to therapy?A. This depends largely on the problem(s) that brings you to therapy and on your goals. Some symptom relief can usually be achieved in a matter of 6-8 weeks to 6 months. If you're looking to make real change in your life it may take longer. Often people get into therapy and decide to continue because they like the progress they're making and the personal growth.
In any case, the length of your therapy requires your consent and your therapist will discuss it with you periodically. Q. How often do I need to go to therapy?A. It's optimal to attend weekly sessions for the first 6-8 weeks if possible. This is a way for you to begin the therapeutic process and experience changes more quickly. At times, clients are seen more than once a week and/or for longer period of time by special arrangement. Some clients attend therapy every-other-week. The frequency is determined by the presenting problem, your desire to move forward, your resources, and your discussions and agreement with your therapist. Q. What about confidentiality?A. Counselors are bound by confidentiality including the fact that you're in therapy unless you give written permission to disclose that information. There are a few legal exceptions:
Q. Do you take insurance?A. Ahl Counseling Services, LLC is a "fee for service" provider and doesn't participate formally on any insurance networks. We believe that your therapy is personal and private. Insurance companies decide whether your situation is a "medical necessity" and how many sessions you're entitled to. At times, this can compromise the best treatment for you. Be advised that mental health treatment becomes part of your medical record and can affect how you are viewed by prospective employers and your ability to get disability, health or life insurance in the future. If you choose to use your insurance you can use the "Out of Network Provider" option. Your therapist will provide the necessary paperwork to submit for reimbursement. Please check your policy for coverage. Fees are collected at the time of service and all reimbursement will go to youQ. WHAT TYPES OF PAYMENT ARE ACCEPTED?:A. Ahl Counseling Services, LLC accepts cash, checks, money orders, and Visa, Master Card and American Express. Q. What should I do to set up an appointment?A. You can contact us by email, info@AhlCounseling.com, or call us at 614-529-8100 for an initial phone consultation, to ask questions and to schedule an appointment.
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Ahl Counseling Services, LLC, 136 Northwoods Blvd., Worthington, OH 43235 |
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