It is my first time coming to therapy. What do I do, and what will happen when I come in?

Coming to therapy for the first time can be anxiety provoking. The process of finding a therapist is usually the hardest part. We will walk you through the process each step of the way. Once we have scheduled the first session, you will complete your intake paperwork online. At the first session,  we will spend the first few minutes discussing confidentiality and how therapy works. The rest of the first session will be spent discussing what is occurring currently that brings you into therapy and any related history. You do not need to feel pressured to share every detail of your past in the first session. By the end of the initial session, we will give you clear feedback about what we think would be most helpful and together we will make a plan. Most clients report feeling significantly less nervous after they leave their first session. The frequency and duration of therapy varies and we will discuss this upfront and ongoing.

What will I pay for therapy?

This varies widely according to your insurance and services provided. We are very upfront and communicative with clients about costs. Currently, the entire practice is in-network with BCBS (excluding Blue Value and Blue Local). Holly Hauser and Betsy Karas are currently in-network with United Healthcare. Please call your insurance to find out about your specific benefits and what you will pay. Tips for asking about coverage: Call your insurance, ask about in-network mental health benefits for Carolina Psychology Center. The CPT code for individual therapy is 90837. Ask if you have a deductible or a copay. When we are not given clear insurance information and there is not clarity about what a client owes, we will collect the contracted rate upfront and adjust later once we have all the necessary information. All fees are due at the time services are completed which is at the end of each session, with a card of your choice on file.

For out of network or those choosing not to use insurance, individual, 60 minute sessions are $150 but may vary depending on the type of therapy you receive. Couple’s therapy out of network is $185. Rates are shared upfront. Upon request, superbills or receipts can be provided for clients to file on their own if out-of-network. Psychological testing is charged in packages and not filed through insurance. See our assessment page. There is an $130 “no show” or missed session fee for missed sessions or when 24 hours notice is not given.

Why shouldn’t I just take medication?

Medication can be effective to help treat a variety of mental health concerns (e.g., anxiety, depression, ADHD, etc.). Our work together is designed to explore the root of the issue, dig into your behavior and teach strategies that can help you accomplish your personal and/or relational goals.

Medication can be effective and is sometimes needed in conjunction with therapy. We are not medical providers. Pros and cons regarding medication, prescribing, and monitoring must be provided by a medical professional. We work with clients to help them decide if they need to be assessed for medication and refer them to qualified providers.

How does it work? What do I have to do in sessions?

Because each person has different issues and goals for therapy, therapy will be unique to each individual. We tailor the therapeutic approach to your specific needs. Some of the therapy modalities used by our practitioners include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy ,and others. The therapeutic relationship and alliance is one of the most impactful and beneficial aspects of therapy.

How long will it take?

Unfortunately, this is not possible to say in a general FAQs page. Everyone’s circumstances are unique to them and the length of time therapy can take to allow you to accomplish your goals depends on your desire for personal development, your commitment, and the factors that are driving you to seek therapy in the first place.

I want to get the most out of therapy. What can I do to help?

We are glad you are dedicated to getting the most out of your sessions. Your active participation is important to you making progress. In general, our patients who are most successful (whatever success means to them) are consistent with sessions and frequent in the beginning of treatment, spend time thinking about what they want to focus on in session, sometimes take notes during sessions when it is helpful, apply the content of their sessions to their lives outside of therapy, stay open, and trust the process of change. A key factor of success in therapy is communication with your therapist and providing feedback around the therapeutic process. This is important so that therapy can be adjusted or modified based on your needs or a referral to a different provider or higher level of care can be provided.