Here are answers to most common questions. Can't find an answer? Call us at (609) 237-7100!
What can psychotherapy do for me that a self-help book can’t?
Self-help books contain generalizations, based on someone else’s story, or on a combination of stories. While self-help books play an important role in our culture, they don’t offer the flexible, individualized approach that is often needed to bring about lasting life changes. In addition, books do not offer the therapeutic relationship that can encourage us and hold us to a greater level of accountability.
How do I choose the right therapist for me?
Read our therapist’s profiles to determine which person’s approach and specialties feel right for you. If you need additional help in choosing a therapist, feel free to call the clinic, and our Director will assist you.
Most people can tell after an initial session whether they feel comfortable with a therapist’s style. Please feel free to speak up if you do not feel comfortable with the therapist, it will not offend us whatsoever. We want you to feel that you can develop an alliance of trust with your therapist – that is when therapy works best. We want to help you get to the right therapist.
I’ve been dissatisfied with other therapists in the past. What is going to make this experience different with you?
We see many “seasoned” clients at our clinic and are pleased to state that our retention of clients is very high. Many clients comment that they’ve been searching for a clinic like this – a place where they receive competent care and feel deeply connected to their therapist and to the clinic. We strongly believe that we do therapy very well at CPA, and that our expertise is not only a product of our training but the result of spending years listening to what clients really want out of a therapist and a clinic.
What can I expect from my first appointment with a therapist?
Many people feel nervous before their first appointment, wondering what their therapist will ask, or what they should tell their therapist. Your therapist will primarily want to hear the reasons you made the appointment, what you have already done to try and solve the problem, and what you hope to accomplish in therapy. To better understand you, your therapist will likely want to know how things are going in the important parts of your life (relationships, work, school, etc.) as well as information about your background. If you and your therapist decide to continue working together, you will begin developing goals for therapy. If you do not feel comfortable with your therapist for any reason, please say so, and your therapist will be happy to provide you with a referral to another therapist.
Can I expect to feel better right away?
Some people begin to feel better as soon as they make their appointment or at the time of their first session. There can be a sense of relief when you make the commitment to address an issue that is problematic. More often, however, people do not feel better immediately. Therapy is sometimes emotionally painful because it involves an active effort to look at yourself and your life situations in a very deep and honest way and to make some difficult changes. If the problems that bring you to therapy were easy to solve, you would have solved them without the guidance of a professional. Though the short-term distress of addressing problems and making changes may feel challenging, keep in mind that the potential long-term gains can feel well worth it. When therapy is successful, the positive gains in self-esteem, improved relationships and coping skills will far outweigh the distress of making changes.
How long does each therapy session last?
A typical therapy session lasts about 45-60 minutes. The duration may vary depending on the type of service.
How often will I have appointments?
The frequency of appointments depends on your individual needs and treatment plan. This can be discussed with your therapist or psychiatrist. There are usually weekly meetings and they last about three months on average.
What are your fees if I don't have insurance?
Our fees vary based on the type of service provided. We offer a sliding scale fee structure for clients without insurance. Please contact us for more information about our rates.
What is your cancellation policy?
We require a minimum of 24 hours' notice to cancel or reschedule an appointment. Late cancellations or no-shows may be subject to a fee.
Can I switch therapists if I don't feel comfortable?
Yes, it's important that you feel comfortable with your therapist. If you wish to change therapists, please let us know, and we will accommodate your request.
Is there emergency support available?
We do not provide 24/7 emergency support. . If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis, please reach out for help. Call 911: If someone is in immediate danger, call 911. Call 988: Get connected to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline by dialing 988.
What kind of services does Mindwell Behavioral Health provide?
Mindwell provides a range of comprehensive services, including Psychotherapy, Medication Management, Children & Adolescent Services, Women’s Services, Testing & Evaluation, and Addiction Treatment among others.
What if my insurance coverage changes?
You are responsible for providing accurate information about your insurance benefits and confirming if Mindwell is preferred or in-network with your insurance carrier. Please be prepared to confirm your health insurance and credit card information when scheduling and arriving for each appointment.
How can I view my balance or make a payment?
You can visit the Mindwell patient portal to make a payment, review outstanding balances that may be charged to your credit card on file, or to ask any questions that you may have.