How do I know which therapist to choose?

Choosing the right therapist can be difficult.  We will do our best to match you with the therapist we believe would be best given your presenting issues, preferences, schedule and insurance plan.  The rest is up to you and your therapist.  If you feel that you would be better suited with someone else after a session or two, that is okay!  We understand that building a relationship and confiding in a person must feel right and comfortable for you.  Please share that feedback and we will do everything we can to get you with the right provider.

How early should I come to my first appointment?

We recommend you come at least 15 to 20 minutes prior to your first appointment.  This will give you time to fill our intake forms and take a look at our client agreement and policies.  Please feel free to download and print off our Client Agreement ahead of time, so that you know what to expect and to save yourself time in the office.  You also have the choice of printing off the intake paperwork (located on our website) prior to your appointment and completing it before you present for your first appointment.

How often will I need to see my therapist?

Often,  a commitment to weekly sessions for the first 2-3 months is recommended, as it can take the first few sessions just to get a detailed history, thorough assessment and for the client to become comfortable with the process. Each person is unique and each therapist’s style is different. Therefore, the joining process and establishing trust may take some time.  Keep in mind that therapy is an investment in your mental health and well being, and we are here to help you on that journey.

How long will I need therapy for?

Each person’s process, needs and journey is unique and different.  In general, when the client and therapist decide together that the issues have resolved or the symptoms have lessened and become more manageable, a healthy termination can be agreed upon. 

What if I can’t make it to my scheduled appointment?

We ask for a full 48 hours notice in the case of a missed or cancelled appointment, or you will be billed a $100.00 late cancellation/missed appointment fee.  While it can be hard to predict certain life events, we ask that you give us as much notice as possible. Many of our therapists have tight schedules and we ask that our time is valued and respected.  We make every effort to give the best care for all of our clients. 

Can I email or call my therapist when I need to talk?

It is important to note that email is not a secure way of transmitting personal information unless you are using a password protected and encrypted email.

Our therapists are here for you during your scheduled appointment.  Any additional time in excess of 5 minutes per week, will be billed at our case management rate of $140.00/hour.  There are exceptions to this in the case of emergency or crisis.

What if my therapist is sick or on vacation and I need help?

Your therapist will inform you if they are planning any days off or vacations with appropriate notice and time to appoint a back up therapist to handle any emergent needs during their time off.  You can also contact our administrative staff with any urgent needs and it will be appropriately directed to the Executive Director or Managing Clinician of the day.

What does it mean that each of the therapists are “Independent Contracted Providers”?

Each mental health practitioner carries their own business licenses, professional liability insurance, and work within our group practice as their own business with in a business.  Each provider is individually licensed in the State of Washington to provide independent services.  Counseling Services For Wellbeing is the collaborative space that enables continuity of care and at the same time provides space for independent and individual mental health services and practice by the contracted clinicians.  The work that is done in a session is reflective of that practitioners approach and philosophy, and while CSFW hopes to surround itself with like minded professionals who have shared goals and a collegial attitude, the clinician’s practice is in no way a representation of CSFW.  If you have any questions regarding services, policies, fees or scheduling please check with the administrative team.  It is also possible that we may refer you back to the provider for any further discussion or negotiation.

In this high tech era, how do you keep my 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 (HIPPA).  Please take a look at our Notice of Privacy Practices.