General Questions Regarding Therapy:
Why do people decide to begin therapy?
There are many reasons why someone reaches out to a therapist for help. Some people have the mistaken idea that therapy is only for people who have a mental illness. This simply isn’t true! Therapy is for anyone who is struggling, and who wants to feel better.
All of us go through experiences which are difficult. It could be a major crisis that has happened, or even a temporary upheaval that’s upsetting. Or it could be something chronic, which has exhausted us and our familiar coping skills. Many times there are old traumas, which need to be worked through and healed. Another source of distress are relationships that create more pain than joy. In addition, there could be low self-esteem, depression, grief and loss issues, anxiety, or too much stress.
People begin therapy because they’re unhappy. Each of us has the right to seek help and guidance, no matter what’s causing our unhappiness. We all deserve an easier, healthier, happier life.
Why not just talk to a friend or family member?
Even though family and friends often have the best of intentions, they aren’t educated and trained in how to help. In many situations there will be biases which can get in the way of having a completely non-judgmental view of what’s going on. There can also be the temptation to hold information back and not fully disclose. This can be because we don’t want to worry the people who love us, or even because we fear they’ll think less of us. Having someone who is fully trained, educated, and experienced in how to help, and someone who is not a part of our day-to-day life gives us the best chance of moving forward.
How long do people stay in therapy?
This is a very individual issue. The length of therapy is based on many things: the intensity of the situation, how much support the client has outside of therapy, the amount of past trauma and healing that’s taken place, the goals that the client has, and how motivated the client might be.
What if the client isn’t comfortable with a therapist?
If at any time, the client has concerns about the client/therapist relationship, or the individual therapist, the therapist is ethically required to assist the client with referrals to other therapists. Sometimes the fit just isn’t right. Don’t ever stay in therapy with someone who makes you uncomfortable in any way!
Questions Specific to Linda’s Counseling Practice:
What about insurance?
Yes, insurance is accepted. Linda is a provider for some, but not all insurances. Please let her know that you wish to use insurance, and she can tell you if she’s a provider for your insurance company. Even if she’s not a provider, it is possible that your plan will allow you to see her as an out-of-network provider. Your insurance company can tell you about the particulars of your plan.
Can credit and debit cards be used for payment?
Yes. For your convenience, Linda uses a Square Card Reader, which allows acceptance of these types of payment. You can also pay for your session with cash or a check.
What does MSW and LCSW mean?
The MSW represents the educational degree. Linda has a Master’s degree in Social Work, from California State University, Sacramento. The LCSW represents her California state license. She is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. To be licensed, in addition to her master’s degree, she had to have 3200 hours of supervised clinical experience, and successfully pass two different licensure tests. Her California license number is LCS21018.
*If you have any further questions, please call 805-569-0264, or email linda@lindamenesez.com.