Frequently asked questions about psychotherapy

What’s the difference between therapy and coaching?

The difference between therapy and coaching is the focus of our work together.

In therapy we explore life questions and issues in a depth-oriented framework.  Therapy doesn’t last forever, but it takes longer to do this kind of work.  We may explore your history, your relationships, and all the ways that you became you!  This approach often creates a solid foundation for change and growth and leads to life-changing insights. Therapy may also incorporate dimensions of coaching, as appropriate.  Therapy is appropriate for you if you have an eating disorder or are in recovery from an eating disorder.

Coaching also provides the opportunity for life-changing insights, but the focus is more laser-like.  Coaching is an appropriate choice if  you’d like to explore your relationship with food from a more goal-oriented perspective.  Practical and creative solutions are discussed and implemented, with the focus being on motivation and inspiration.  Coaching is generally shorter-term, starting with a series of sessions and moving to check-ins as needed.

What is your fee policy?

My fee for a 60 minute Individual Psychotherapy Session is $150. Payment is due at the time of service, unless other arrangements are made. I accept cash, checks, debit or credit cards, and PayPal.

Coaching has a different fee structure.

Do you take insurance?

At this time, I am not a preferred provider on any insurance plan.  However, if you have out-of- network benefits, your therapy sessions may be covered in full or in part.  Please check with your insurance company for more information.  Insurance does not cover coaching sessions.

How long is a therapy session?

A session is 60 minutes long, and we generally will meet weekly for a while, with the possibility of meeting every other week at a later time.

What can I expect at my first therapy session?

We start with an initial phone consult for 20-30 minutes.  This is offered at no charge.  Pursuing therapy can be a very rewarding and fulfilling experience.  Choosing the right therapist is really important.  During our consult we can talk about what you’re looking for, and I’ll answer any questions you may have.  If it feels like we might be a good fit, we can schedule our first session.

The first session is usually a lot of information gathering, and getting to know each other.  You can get a sense of how I work, and I can learn more about you.  In the first session we usually get a sense of what we want to explore first.

How long is a coaching session?

Initial coaching sessions are 80 minutes, and follow-up sessions are generally 45 minutes.  We may set up sessions weekly, every other week, or monthly, depending on your needs.  You may want to purchase a coaching package to get started and then we can see what you may need for follow-up.

What can I expect at my first coaching session?

Even before we talk, you’ll have some homework!  I’ll be sending you some questions to answer so I can get a sense of who you are and what you’d like to focus on.  As I mentioned above, we’ll have more time (80minutes) for our first session, so we can really get going!  Then, follow-up sessions are generally 45 minutes.  In every coaching session, we’ll come up with some action steps to take after our talk.

Do you work on the phone or use skype?

I offer phone and skype sessions for coaching clients only.
I offer phone check-ins for therapy clients who have an urgent matter to discuss.

Can you talk to my doctors/medical professionals/teachers/family members?

This is relevant to therapy clients only.
HIPAA protects your privacy.  Feel free to download the HIPAA information from this website.  Our sessions are completely confidential, with few exceptions.  These are listed in the informational document that can be Sibel Golden counselor information .
If we feel that it would be helpful or important for me to speak with someone on your behalf, you can sign a release of information form.  If we are setting up a treatment team, then this will be part of the arrangement, for sure.  A treatment team may include your primary healthcare provider, your dietician, and family, for example.

If you would like to explore where you are, and find practical and creative approaches to living a full and authentic life, I’m here to help.

email me and we can discuss what approach would be best for you.