FAQS
Q: Do you prescribe medication?
No, I am not qualified to prescribe medications. I will also not pressure you into trying medications. If you are considering prescription medication as part of your therapeutic recovery, however, I will work with you to make the best personal decision. As appropriate, I will also collaborate with your doctor, or provide a referral for a qualified physician, to explore specific medication options.
Q: How often will we meet?
Typically, I meet with clients once per week for 50 to 90 minutes. Depending on need, we may discuss an alternate schedule.
Q: Do you treat substance abuse?
No, I am not licensed to treat substance abuse issues; however, substance abuse is a common sign of underlying mental health concerns. I will be glad to refer you to a chemical dependency professional for treatment as needed. If you are uncertain whether your use of drugs or alcohol qualifies as abuse, I will be glad to help you explore further.
Q: I've never tried therapy before. What should I expect?
At our first meeting, I will ask you to share your reason for seeking therapy, and some background information about your life. I will explain your right to confidentiality, and will answer any questions you have about our work together. I typically see clients once per week for about 50 minutes, during which time we will work toward your therapeutic goals and address any emotional concerns that arise.
Q: How long do I need to be in therapy?
That depends on your therapy goals and personal sense of mental and emotional wellness. Some people feel that they benefit from only a couple of sessions, whereas others are in therapy for months or years. There is no right or wrong amount of time to be in therapy, as long as it continues to be beneficial for you as a client.
Q: Will you share my personal details with anyone?
Typically, no. You have a right to confidentiality, which means that I have a legal and ethical responsibility to maintain your complete privacy. Depending on your circumstances, I may ask for your written permission to connect with your medical doctor, medication prescriber, school counselor, or other individual who is invested in your care. Contact would be for the sole purpose of coordinated care for your overall well-being. Another exception to your right to confidentiality is if I have sound reason to think that you may be in danger of harming yourself or someone else (or if I believe you are actively being harmed). In which case, I will do my best to help you get the additional help that you need.
Note: Individuals under the age of 13 are not protected by the same privacy laws. A parent or guardian is expected to play an active role in the youth's therapeutic services prior to the age of 13.
Q: How do I know if I need therapy?
This is a great question, and the answer is different for everyone. For example, some people seek counseling because they have thoughts, feelings, or behaviors that they dislike and/or find difficult to control. Some people have thoughts, feelings, or behaviors that they want to better understand. Every person experiences numerous changes and transitions throughout life. Sometimes, those changes are simply too stressful or confusing to manage on one's own; and that's when the support and guidance of a counselor can be very valuable. If you are still uncertain, please contact me for a no-pressure, no-cost consultation to explore your thoughts and questions.
Q: How do I know if you take my insurance?
I am an in-network provider for certain insurance companies (link), but your coverage depends on your individual plan details. It is recommended that you call your insurance company prior to our first session, and ask the following questions:
- Is Erin Wood Counseling an in-network provider with my plan?
- What is my co-pay amount?
- Do I have an unmet balance on my deductible?
- Is there a limit to the number of allowable mental health sessions per year?
- If applicable: are couples sessions covered by your plan?
If you are still uncertain, I will be able to check on your allowable benefits via my third-party billing company.
Q: I am your client, and I saw you in a store or requested to friend you on social media. You didn't say hello to me, or answer my online request - why?!
Believe me, it's not easy for me to NOT greet people who I know through therapy; but more than anything, I need to protect your privacy in public places (including sites online). I don't mean to be rude - just protective of your privacy!