What really happens in therapy (the mental health kind)

 “So….tell me about your mother?”  That’s what I used to think therapy (the mental health kind) was all about.  A person would just kick back on a couch with a Sigmund-Freud-like therapist while he, with his gray beard and glasses, scribbles on a notepad while you talk all about your dreams.   I’m sure this Freudian type of therapy had its place back in the day.  However, in the present time, that method doesn’t sound very helpful in dealing with real-life marital problems, stressors related to the economy, or kids that don’t listen very well.  

Because there is often such a mystery about therapy, I realized that -- just like me -- most of you don’t understand what therapy is all about.  You may think like I did, or have a movie or TV version of therapy in your mind.  So in the coming four part blog series, I’m going to take the mystery out of therapy. So sit back and be prepared to learn about what really happens in therapy (the mental health kind). 

PART ONE: 

• Details of the clinic environment
• The financial side therapy and insurance

PART TWO:

• The types of providers that conduct therapy

PART THREE:

• Typical reasons individual, couples, and families seek out therapy

PART FOUR:

• What happens behind the closed doors of a therapy session

PART ONE:

The Clinic Environment

“This doesn’t’ look like a doctor’s office”

I hear that statement a lot -- especially when kids come in the door.  Don’t look for doctor coats and stark-office chairs in most private mental health clinics.    The environment is purposefully meant to feel very different than a medical clinic.  At my clinic, the first things that will strike you are the high ceilings, comfortable modern furnishings with a retro flair, and big band era music playing the background while the computer generated fish swing around the “tank” above the fireplace (a kid favorite).   Many clinics have specialized rooms such as a large family room and a room just for children where they can express themselves in the only way they know how – through play.  

While your therapist may be a doctor, she or he will typically be dressed casually.  The therapist should not make you feel rushed or misunderstood.  If you feel uncomfortable, it is perfectly acceptable to find a different therapist whose style better suits your needs.  Be picky about your therapist as that relationship is one of the most important factors impacting your ability to accomplish your goals.

The Financial Side of Therapy

“I didn’t know my insurance or work paid for this”

Cost is always a major concern for people.  Many people don’t realize that they already have mental health benefits available through their insurance or place of employment.  Back in Freud’s day, insurance did not pay for therapy.  Today, all major insurance companies cover mental health visits with benefits usually equal to a standard trip to the medical doctor.  

Another resource most people don’t know about is something called an Employee Assistance Program (EAP).  Many mid to large businesses offer this as part of your employment benefit package.  Most EAP programs offer a specified number of confidential, mental-health related visits at no cost to you.   

Additional options most clinics offer are reduced fee scales or payment plan options.  This can be invaluable if you have a high deductible like many people in today’s economy.  Finally, don’t forget about your Health Savings Account (HSA).  Because mental health is a medical service, you can you use the pre-tax dollars in your HSA account to cover any co-pays or deductibles.

Next Time in Part Two

In Part Two, I’ll talk about the many different types of people who provide therapy.   Therapists can have a lot of letters, dots, and credentials after their names that that can be confusing to most people.  We’ll go through the differences and similarities of the various therapists’ training.  Also, I’ll help you understand what you should look for in a therapist depending on your needs.  Until then, if you are thinking about participating in therapy, start by investigating your employer and insurance options.  It may make a difference in your health care decisions.

Craig Rens is the Clinical Director of Solutions Counseling located in downtown St. Michael, MN.  He is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who provides therapy to individuals, couples, and families of all ages and ethnicities.  Learn more about Solutions Counseling at www.HelpWithSolutions.com or call 763-515-4563.