I’ve never done couples/relational therapy. What should I expect?
The first few sessions of therapy are spent getting to know you and your partner. Rochelle prefers to have a joint session and then an individual session with each partner to get to know the history of the relationship in depth. This is standard practice with using the modality of Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy.
I’ve never done individual therapy. What should I expect?
Rochelle sees many who are new to the therapy process. During the first session, she wants to get to know you outside of the reason that brought you to therapy; she’ll ask about your daily habits, family and work life, and end with what goals you’d like to achieve through therapy. Based on that information Rochelle helps you formulate how best to achieve those goals through personal growth and insight. Rochelle asks a lot of questions, which helps slow down your thoughts to process through emotions and situations.
Can I use my insurance?
Rochelle am out of network for all insurance companies. This means that she does not and will not bill your insurance; however, she will provide you with a billable receipt for you to submit to your insurance for possible reimbursement under your out-of-network benefits. If you have an HSA/FSA with your insurance plan, we can most certainly use that account as long as there is a debit card issued that can be processed through Square. If not, you will have to file for reimbursement.
How often should I be coming to therapy?
Rochelle does not bill insurance; therefore, there is more freedom when it comes to determining the frequency and number of sessions. Rochelle recommends to most clients to commit to coming weekly for at least the first month to get some real momentum going. After a month, you’ll together evaluate progress and adjust frequency as needed. Rochelle’s goal as a therapist is that her clients feel supported in a way that best fits their needs.
Therapist v. Counselor. What’s the difference?
Rochelle follows her credentials as a marriage and family therapist: “I explain the difference this way…therapy with me is firstly an exploratory experience and secondly a transformative journey. I evaluate how the many systems (i.e. family, friends, career, religion, etc.) in your life affect you. I will not provide you with advice, tell you what to do next, or label you without consent. I will ask exploratory questions that provide insight into new perspectives and suggestions for positive coping skills.”
How does virtual therapy work?
Because Rochelle is licensed in the state of Georgia, she can only provided services to those who are physically in Georgia. You meet as you would in-person. Rochelle asks that you secure your space as she cannot provide confidentiality for your location. If you live in a home with others, Rochelle suggests finding a quiet space like your bedroom or bathroom or taking your appointment in your vehicle. A secure link will be emailed to you for your session.
What should I be doing between sessions?
Sometimes Rochelle gives homework assignments like engaging in self-care or something to reflect on. The goal is to keep the conversation going, internally, outside of the therapy room. This may look like eliminating things that do not align with the goals laid out or taking time to observe what truly makes you happy. It varies depending on the person or relationship.