Pamela Chapman, LCSW, Therapist
FAQs About Therapy
Taking the first step- What do I need to do first?
If you're new to therapy, you may be wondering how does this work? Worry no more, I'll explain. When you call, we will have free a 30-minute conversation to talk about what you're going though at that time, what you would like to focus on and if you would like to work with me. There is no pressure to do so but if you do end up wanting to schedule, we work to find a date and time for a virtual appointment. I will send you a link to read and fill out my disclosures and some background information on yourself. You will receive reminders via email for the appointment and on the date click on it and we talk!
What happens at the first appointment?
At the time of the appointment, I will go over my disclosures, talk about the length of sessions and fees as we start talking. Don’t worry, we start slow, you can share as much or as little as you'd like. We talk about what brought you to therapy, what’s been happening in your personal and professional life. What is going on and what you’ve tried to remedy the situation. We will begin to develop a small game plan of homework for the time in-between sessions.
How do I know if the therapist is a good fit?
Working with a therapist that is a good fit is very important. It’s always a good idea to visit websites and read bios to see if a particular therapist works with your type of demographic, adults, children etc. It is also important to see if they work with the issues that are coming up, such as anger, depression, anxiety PTSD, etc. Most therapists offer a free consultation, this is a good time to ask questions, get a sense of their style and personality. If you feel comfortable, make an appointment!
Does therapy help right away?
Many people feel better once they’ve made the first step in reaching out to a therapist and setting up an appointment. People also report feeling better one they’ve had the first session and faced what they have been holding on to and been heard by the therapist. It is common for people to feel they are experiencing a roller coaster of emotions when they begin therapy and face what is coming up. This will pass if therapy is consistent, and you are open and begin to integrate what we discuss in session.
Homework
If you’re not excited about the thought of homework? Don’t worry, I hear the same from my clients. The homework I assign is generally small, for example, to notice over the week how often you may feel stressed, defensive or the urge to avoid something. In the beginning, I'll just ask you to begin to observe yourself in real time. This way we train your brain to be more observant and mindful of what's happening so we can create a road map and develop a plan on how to begin the process of change.
How will I know if therapy is working?
Therapy is not a once size fits all and it’s difficult to answer this question the same for everyone but, there are 6 questions to ask yourself which may shed some light if its working for you. The article below can help answer that question.
What types of clients do you see?
I work with adults, not children or couples. I also work with groups though I do not currently have a group running.
How does confidentiality work?
Everything that is said in session stays in session. Notes from sessions are kept in an electronic health record called Simple Practice. You are able to access your own records with a signed release. If you are interested in reviewing your records, please let me know.
Are you accepting new clients?
Yes I am currently seeing new clients,
What types of issues can you help with?
I am trained in and can help with the following issues:
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Depression or other mood disorders, such as bipolar disorder, anxiety disorder, phobias, social anxiety or panic attacks
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Greif and loss
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Anger management
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Abuse or trauma
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Work problems
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Divorce and separation
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Stress management
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Obsessive Thinking or compulsive behavior
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Combat related or other Post Traumatic Stress Disorder
Do you provide in person or online counseling?
I provide phone and video sessions.
How long do appointments last?
Appointments are 50 minutes. This is the standard length of a counseling session. If you are interested in a longer session (75 minutes) please contact me regarding availability and pricing.
How often will we meet?
To begin, we will meet once a week. I find it’s important to gain some momentum in the beginning by meeting weekly or progress can stall out. Once some or all of your goals are met, meeting less often will make sense.
How much do you charge?
I charge $125 per 50-minute session. Payment will be collected at the time of service.
Do you accept insurance?
I currently private pay through credit card, venmo, HSA, and Zelle. I will collect payment in full from you at the time of service. If you have a PPO type plan and want to submit a claim for out-of-network reimbursement, I can give you an invoice and superbill. Please note that submitting an insurance claim means I will need to give you a mental health diagnosis.
What is your cancellation policy?
I require 24 hours’ notice of cancellation by email, or you will need to pay for the appointment. An occasional exception may be made in the case of an emergency. It’s important that we meet consistently in order to make progress.
What theoretical approach do you use?
I use a variety of theories and techniques. I find Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy, Cognitive Processing Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Motivational Interviewing and Mindfulness techniques are often helpful for my clients.
Do you prescribe medication?
No I am not a prescriber. Although medication is not always necessary, many clients do benefit from using medications, if in session we determine you may benefit from medications, we can talk about working with your primary care provider about medication management.
Are there any issues or types of clients that you DON’T work with?
I only work with adults aged 18+ (not children or couples). I do not conduct child custody evaluations, nor do I provide custody recommendations. I also don’t provide treatment for eating disorders, Substance Abuse disorders, psychotic disorders (schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, etc. Due to state licensing laws, I can only provide therapy and counseling to individuals residing in Colorado.
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