Daniel Blaess, Ph.D. and
Metro Psychological
Common Questions, Fee and Insurance Information
Is therapy right for me?
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 a therapist 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.
Do I really need therapy? I can usually handle my problems.
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.
How can therapy help me?
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 counselors 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.
Resolving the issues or concerns that prompted 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.
What is therapy like?
In some ways psychotherapy is difficult to describe, and likely varies among therapists. However, it is standard for therapists to discuss the primary issues and concerns in your life during therapy sessions.
Psychotherapy is commonly scheduled on a weekly basis, although sometimes more frequent sessions are indicated. Each session lasts around 45-50 minutes. Therapy can be short-term, focusing on a specific issue, or longer-term, addressing more complex issues or ongoing personal growth. 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.
Is therapy confidential?
In general, the law protects the confidentiality of everything discussed in therapy. No information is disclosed without prior written permission from the patient.
There are some exceptions required by law to this rule. Those exceptions include any time there is suspected child or elder abuse, any time serious harm is threatened toward another person, or any time a person might be actively wanting to harm him/her self. In those instances, steps may have to be taken to ensure the welfare of others or the patient. If at all possible, your therapist would discuss with you any instance when your privacy could not be preserved.
All of these considerations will be discussed you at length during your first appointment. Any questions you may have about any of the policies at Metro Psychological will be discussed prior to our beginning to discuss your concerns.
How much do your services cost?
Our standard fees range from $150 to $200. We can offer a sliding fee scale that is based on your financial need, and will discuss what is possible with you prior to arranging an initial meeting or at that time.
Do you accept insurance? How does insurance work?
The staff at Metro Psychological can accept many insurances, including TRICARE, MediCare, Medi-Medi, and most PPO's.
If you are using your insurance, it is often a good idea to speak with your insurance carrier to learn more about your mental health coverage. If you need assistance in finding out information about your coverage, feel free to call. We can often learn what is needed prior to your appointment.
We are happy to discuss with you a variety of options based on your needs and our recommendations.
