Question 1

Is therapy right for me?

Accepted Answer

Seeking out therapy is an individual choice. There are many reasons why people come to therapy. Sometimes it is to deal with long-standing psychological issues, or problems with anxiety or depression. Other times it is in response to unexpected changes in one's life such as a divorce or work transition. Many seek the advice of counsel as they pursue their own personal exploration and growth. Working with a therapist can help provide insight, support, and new strategies for all types of life challenges. Therapy can help address many types of issues including depression, anxiety, conflict, grief, stress management, body-image issues, and general life transitions. Therapy is right for anyone who is interested in getting the most out of their life by taking responsibility, creating greater self-awareness, and working towards change in their lives.

Question 2

Do I really need therapy?  I can usually handle my problems.

Accepted Answer

Everyone goes through challenging situations in life, and while you may have successfully navigated through other difficulties you've faced, there's nothing wrong with seeking out extra support when you need it. In fact, therapy is for people who have enough self-awareness to realize they need a helping hand, and that is something to be admired. You are taking responsibility by accepting where you're at in life and making a commitment to change the situation by seeking therapy. Therapy provides long-lasting benefits and support, giving you the tools you need to avoid triggers, re-direct damaging patterns, and overcome whatever challenges you face.

Question 3

How can therapy help me?

Accepted Answer

A number of benefits are available from participating in psychotherapy. Therapists can provide support, problem-solving skills, and enhanced coping strategies for issues such as depression, anxiety, relationship troubles, unresolved childhood issues, grief, stress management, body image issues and creative blocks. Many people also find that therapists can be a tremendous asset to managing personal growth, interpersonal relationships, family concerns, marriage issues, and the hassles of daily life. Therapists can provide a fresh perspective on a difficult problem or point you in the direction of a solution. The benefits you obtain from therapy depend on how well you use the process and put into practice what you learn. Some of the benefits available from therapy include:
Attaining a better understanding of yourself, your goals, and values
Developing skills for improving your relationships
Finding resolution to the issues or concerns that led you to seek therapy
Learning new ways to cope with stress and anxiety
Managing anger, grief, depression, and other emotional pressures
Improving communications and listening skills
Changing old behavior patterns and developing new ones
Discovering new ways to solve problems in your family or marriage
Improving your self-esteem and boosting self-confidence

Question 4

What is therapy like?

Accepted Answer

Every therapy session is unique and caters to each individual and their specific goals. It is standard for therapists to discuss the primary issues and concerns in your life during therapy sessions. It is common to schedule a series of weekly sessions, where each session lasts 45-50 minutes. Therapy can be short-term, focusing on a specific issue, or longer-term, addressing more complex issues or ongoing personal growth. There may be times when you are asked to take certain actions outside of the therapy sessions, such as reading a relevant book or keeping records to track certain behaviors. It is important to process what has been discussed and integrate it into your life between sessions. For therapy to be most effective, you must be an active participant, both during and between the sessions. People seeking psychotherapy are willing to take responsibility for their actions, work towards self-change, and create greater awareness in their lives. Here are some things you can expect out of therapy:
Compassion, respect, and understanding
Perspectives to illuminate persistent patterns and negative feelings
Real strategies for enacting positive change
Effective and proven techniques along with practical guidance

Question 5

What are the No Surprises Act and Good Faith Estimate?

Accepted Answer

In compliance with the No Surprises Act that went into effect January 1, 2022, I am required to notify all
clients of your federal rights and protections against “surprise billing”.
Under the law, health care providers can provide patients who do not have insurance or who are not
using insurance an estimate of the expected charges for medical services including psychotherapy
services.
You have the right upon request to receive a “Good Faith Estimate” for the total expected cost of any
non-emergency healthcare services including psychotherapy services. Because of the work I do, I
cannot provide an estimated length of service, the timeframe is a joint discussion between the you
and Christopher Kraemer, LISAC, CSAT. As such estimates are based on yearly time frames. You
have the right to terminate services when you choose. All fees are discussed prior to or at the
initial session and payment is due at the time of service at the beginning of the session. Sessions
cancelled without 24 hours’ notice will be charged the full fee. If you arrive late (over 15 minutes)
you will be charged the full fee and no additional time will be added to the session.
You can ask your health care provider, and any other provider you choose, for a Good Faith Estimate
before you schedule a service.
These rights are outlined at https://www.cms.gov/nosurprises/ and
https://www.cms.gov/nosurprises/consumers/new-protections-for-you

FAQ

Frequently asked questions

Is therapy right for me?

Do I really need therapy? I can usually handle my problems.

How can therapy help me?

What is therapy like?

What are the No Surprises Act and Good Faith Estimate?