You’re Thinking About Starting Therapy- Now What? Common Questions about the Therapy Process Answered

Let’s just call it what it is- navigating any healthcare system can feel confusing, overwhelming, and make you want to crawl into bed and forget about finding help altogether.

But there is something that keeps bringing you back to searching for a therapist. You know it will be helpful- you just wish someone would explain how it all works. 

If you’ve been thinking about reaching out but can’t quite bring yourself to hit ‘send,’ you’re not alone. Here are some of the most common questions people ask before starting therapy.

What is Therapy?

Therapy is a mental health service provided by a licensed counseling professional. It’s a collaborative and personal process during which you and your therapist work together to understand what’s getting in the way of the life you want and develop tools to move forward. 

There are many different approaches to therapy- from traditional talk therapy to art therapy, mindfulness-based therapy, and nature-based approaches. Every therapist works a little differently, so it’s okay to ask questions about how they practice before getting started. 

Research shows that therapy can improve relationships, reduce stress and anxiety, and help people navigate life’s challenges more effectively.

How Do I Know If I Need Therapy?

Many people start therapy because they notice they aren’t feeling like themselves anymore. Maybe you’re overwhelmed, anxious, struggling in your relationships, finding it difficult to get out of bed or simply not enjoying life the way you used to.

If your mental health is getting in the way of the life you want to live, it may be time to talk with a therapist.

Will My Therapist Tell Anyone What We Talk About? 

No. 

Therapists are legally and ethically required to protect your privacy under the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA).  

There are safety-related exceptions, such as if someone is at risk of harming themselves or others. But otherwise, what you share in therapy stays confidential unless you give written permission for information to be released. 

Will My Therapist Give Me a Diagnosis? 

Sometimes.

A diagnosis helps therapists understand your symptoms and guide treatment. It can also bring up a whole bunch of emotions- from relief that there is a name for what you are going through to dread that you will be labeled. 

If you’re using insurance, whether your therapist is in-network or out-of-network, a mental health diagnosis is required for reimbursement. 

If you are paying privately and not using insurance in any way, a diagnosis may not always be necessary. Every therapist approaches this a little differently. You can always ask your therapist how they handle diagnosis and documentation. 

What’s the Difference Between In-Network and Out-Of-Network?

Insurance terminology can definitely feel confusing.

In-network (INN) means your therapist has a contract with your insurance company and submits claims directly. Even if a therapist lists your insurance, it's still a good idea to confirm your benefits with your insurance company before your first appointment.

Out-of-network (OON) means the therapist does not have a contract with your insurance company. Depending on your plan, you may still receive reimbursement using your out-of-network benefits. Many people also use Health Savings Accounts (HSA) or Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) to pay for therapy.

Checking your benefits before starting can help you understand what costs to expect.

A Gentle Reminder

If you’re considering therapy, you don’t have to have everything figured out before reaching out. A consultation is a chance to ask questions and decide whether a therapist feels like the right fit for you.

If you’re looking for mental health therapy in Connecticut or Massachusetts, Partners in Change Therapy and Consulting, LLC offers in-person therapy in Southington, CT and online therapy across Connecticut and Massachusetts. You can schedule a free 20 minute consultation, so we can talk about what’s going on and what kind of support might feel helpful- now or in the future.