Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT)?
- Marriage and Family Therapists (MFTs) are mental health professionals trained in psychotherapy and licensed to diagnose and treat mental and emotional disorders within the context of marriage, couples, and family systems.
- Research studies repeatedly demonstrate the effectiveness of marriage and family therapy in treating the full range of mental and emotional disorders and health problems. Adolescent drug abuse, depression, alcoholism, obesity and dementia in the elderly -- as well as marital distress and conflict -- are just some of the conditions Marriage and Family Therapists effectively treat.
How will I know if you are the right therapist for me?
- Read the About page on this site. If you feel like we are a good match, contact me for an appointment or to talk further. If you are still interested, we will set up an introductory session to talk further about your issues. I am committed to providing effective services by maintaining a smaller number of clients, increasing the amount of time I am able to devote to each couple, family, or individual I work with.
How do I know what kind of therapy I need?
- I explain to you in more detail what I do and what type of therapy may work for you during our introductory session. We discuss together what your needs are and decide on the length and goals for therapy together.
What is the length of a therapy session and what are your fees?
- Refer to my fees page for the answer to this question. Generally, regular sessions last 45-60 minutes.
Does what we talk about in therapy remain confidential?
- Confidentiality is one of the most important components between a client and psychotherapist. Successful therapy requires a high degree of trust with highly sensitive subject matter that is usually not discussed anywhere but the therapist's office. There are certain limitations with your confidentiality, including ethical and legal situations. I will provide and discuss my "Informed Consent" policy regarding confidentiality during our introductory session. You may elect to share information about your progress with your healthcare team, but by law I cannot release this information without obtaining your written permission.
Do you take insurance?
- Yes. Please see insurance page for information on filing insurance.
Do you use email for therapy?
- I only use email for scheduling and non-confidential communications. I do not exchange confidential information via email.
EJH&MEM