“Our goal is to provide not only excellent therapeutic care but to take care of our clients outside of their therapy sessions. Often new clients have questions when they consider therapy and we have tried to answer some of the most frequently asked questions below. Please call us for any additional answers you may be looking for. We look forward to working with you.”

– Teri Cherberg, Practice Manager

WHAT IF I AM NOT SURE THAT MY THERAPIST IS A GOOD FIT FOR ME?

If after meeting with your therapist after one or two sessions, should you feel that you would be better suited to see someone else, we are here to assist you with any transfers as well.  Our goal is to have you feel comfortable and connected with your therapist at Emmaus.

WHAT WILL MY SESSIONS LOOK LIKE?

First Session: During your first session, you and the therapist will get to know each other. They will want to hear your story, including why you are seeking therapy and what goals you’d like to achieve. At the end of this session, you and the therapist will have a good idea of whether it is a good match and if you will work well together. It’s important that you feel comfortable and confident in your working relationship. If for any reason you feel it is not a good match, you are more than welcome to contact our scheduling office to request a transfer. Sessions typically last around 50 minutes, followed by a few minutes to wrap up, process payments and set follow-up appointments.

Continued Therapy: Once you begin working together, most therapists ask that you commit to at least eight sessions. Sessions are typically scheduled once per week. Because therapy will be individualized based on your needs, your therapist will be able to gauge the total length of therapy needed to meet your goals after a few sessions.

HOW OFTEN WILL I NEED TO SEE MY THERAPIST?

It is generally recommended to commit to weekly sessions for the first 2-3 months, as it may take the first few sessions just getting a detailed history and thorough assessment of what is going on. Every person and every therapist’s style is different. The bottom line is, we’re here to help in whatever way we can. We understand that the best way to do this is to establish a trusting relationship over time, and to mutually put in the effort and commitment to make lasting change in your life.

HOW LONG WILL I NEED THERAPY?

Another important issue for you and your therapist to discuss is when and how to end treatment. Although you may end treatment at any time, we strongly encourage you to discuss this decision with your therapist at least one session in advance. This will give you and your therapist an opportunity to discuss the reasons for your decision and bring treatment to an end. Even after treatment ends, “check-in” or follow-up sessions are available to address further concerns, if and when they develop. Your therapist, like your family physician, is an ongoing resource for you to use as necessary.

HOW DO YOU KEEP MY PERSONAL INFORMATION SAFE?

We take your privacy seriously and are committed to keeping your Protected Health Information (PHI) safe, in accordance with the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA).  

WHAT ARE THE INITIALS BEHIND THE THERAPIST’S NAMES?

These initials indicate licensing information for each therapist. Our schedulers will be glad to offer more specifics when you call.

  • ACSW (Academy of Certified Social Workers)
  • LMHC (Licensed Mental Health Counselor)
  • LMFT (Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist)
  • LSW (Licensed Social Worker)
  • C-SAT (Certified Sex Addiction Therapist)
  • CMHS (Child Mental Health Specialist)
  • CIMHP (Certified Integrative Mental Health Professional)
  • CYMHS (Certified Youth Mental Health Specialist)
  • GMHS (Geriatric Mental Health Specialist)
  • SUDP (Substance Use Dependency Professional)

WHAT IF MY THERAPIST IS ON VACATION, ILL OR I NEED HELP?

As soon as we know your provider is unable to see you for your scheduled appointment for any reason, we will call you and let you know. Your provider will alert you to any days off or vacations with notice when possible and will appoint a backup provider to handle urgent needs during their time off. You can also call our scheduling coordinators with any urgent needs, and we will deliver your message appropriately.

If you are in crisis and unable to reach your provider, we recommend calling the crisis clinic at 1-866-4-CRISIS (866-427-4747) or reporting to the nearest Emergency Room.

WHAT IF I HAVE QUESTIONS ON MY ACCOUNT OR BILLING?

If at any time you have any questions, from scheduling to navigating your billing inquiries, our dedicated care team members are here to provide you with support and take care of you outside of your therapy sessions. Our Billing Specialist can be reached directly at 425.869.2644, ext. 18 during administrative office hours.