What to expect in Psychotherapy:
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*****Psychotherapy is a joint trusting and confidential venture entered into
by the client and the trained psychotherapist.
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**** The purpose of this venture is for the client to be assisted by the therapist to examine thoughts, feelings,
actions and relationships; and to evaluate where problems exist, or where changes are likely to improve life satisfaction,
facilitate behavior changes and improve overall psychological adjustment.
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*****The
goal of therapy is to improve personal understanding, relieve emotional distress, improve relationships, communication
and coping skills, strengthen self esteem and promote behavior change, wellness and optimal mental health.
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Question to Consider.....
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"Should I use my insurance coverage
or pay out-of-pocket?"
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*****When you choose to pay for your outpatient mental
health counseling on a self-pay fee-for-service basis, you have much more freedom and control over your therapy. You
have the privilege of complete confidentiality within the confines of the law. Also, the right to choose which therapist
you want to work with, what issues and concerns you feel appropriate for treatment, and how long you feel it necessary to
continue treatment.
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*****When you ask your insurance company to pay for
your outpatient mental health counseling, you give up some of your rights to confidentiality, and most of the control over
the treatment process. True privacy and confidentiality means sharing sensitive, personal information with a single,
trust professional chosen by the client.
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*****Managed care and insurance companies usually require
sharing private information with several people who are not chosen by the client. The case must be reviewed by the insurer
to verify coverage and approve treatment; determine continuation and termination. Health insurance companies use a medical
disease model, so reimbursement requires a "diagnosis" label and treatment is restricted to what is medically necessary.
This medical information becomes part of your permanent medical record and can follow you to all future insurance carriers.
Every benefit package is different and determined by the contract between the insurer, MCO, employer and/or employee.
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*****Most insurance plans require an annual deductible and a co-payment to cover the expenses of treatment.
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*****Always check with your insurance carrier to determine your benefit plan
for outpatient behavioral health services covered.
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