How do I know if therapy is right for me?
It is understandable that many people have their reservations about coming to therapy. It can be difficult to talk openly about the intimate details of your life with a therapist whom you have never met before.
Some reasons you might seek out therapy include:
• You feel like you need someone to talk to about life’s challenges and your concerns.
• You feel “stuck” or “trapped” and do not know a way to get out.
• Your distress is interfering with your ability to function in a way that you normally do such as at work, at school, or in relationships.
• You feel like your life is out of control.
• You feel depressed or anxious.
• You feel hopeless and/or helpless.
What can I expect from therapy?
You may have some misconceptions about therapy from television or movies, and you may not know what to expect. Typically you meet with the therapist one on one (except in couples or family therapy) and discuss your concerns. Therapy can help you in many ways including:
• Assisting you in developing effective ways of coping with stressors.
• Increasing your support system.
• Improving your communication and relationships.
• And decreasing negative emotions such as depression or anxiety.
Therapy is meant to provide you with a safe, supportive environment where you can talk about your deepest concerns without being judged or criticized.
How do I know which Therapist is right for me?
Research has shown that the quality of the therapeutic relationship is one of the most essential components related to how effective the therapy is. It is important that you feel as though your therapist is someone who you can open up to, be honest with, trust and can communicate with. Sometimes it can take 3-4 sessions before a person can decide if they feel comfortable with the therapist and would like to continue working with them in the long term.
How long is a therapy session and how often should I go?
A therapy session lasts approximately 45-50 minutes. Typically a person participates in therapy once a week unless you and the therapist decide that it would be beneficial for you to attend more or less frequently.
How long will I need to be in therapy?
The number of therapy sessions varies depending on the individual, the reason why you are seeking therapy, and the severity of your concerns. During the first session, the anticipated course of therapy and the length of time that may be needed to help you will be discussed. It is important to recognize that the process of therapy can be challenging at times and requires you to make difficult life decisions. However, if you continue, most find the process very helpful and rewarding.
What is the difference between a Psychologist and a Psychiatrist?
A Psychologist is someone who possesses a Doctorate Degree in Psychology (Psy.D. or Ph.D) and is licensed in the state of California.
A Psychiatrist is someone who is a Medical Doctor (M.D.) and can prescribe medication.
It is common for a Psychologist and a Psychiatrist to collaborate with one another to provide the most effective treatment for you in regard to therapy and medications.
What is your fee?
Dr. Wagner’s rate for therapy is $195 per session. If you cannot afford the full fee, a sliding scale fee is available. The rate of the sliding scale fee will be agreed upon by you and Dr. Wagner.
In addition to the fee for therapy sessions, she also charges the above fee for other professional services that she may provide based on 15 minute increments. These include writing reports or letters, telephone conversations that last more than 15 minutes, preparation of records and treatment summaries, as well as performing any other professional services that you may request of her.
Do you accept insurance?
Yes, some insurances accepted.
When calling your insurance company, please make sure to obtain the following information:
• Does my plan include mental health benefits?
• What is my co-payment?
• How many sessions a year does my insurance company cover?
• Do I need pre-approval before I begin therapy?
• Do I have a deductible? If so, how much of my deductible has been met?
• Do I have “out-of-network” benefits?
If Dr. Wagner is not on panel with your insurance company, there are other available options on how to pay for the therapy sessions such inquiring with your insurance company about “out-of-network” benefits, using a “superbill” as well as negotiating a fee.
What if I have more questions?
Please feel free to contact Dr. Wagner if you have any more questions. She would be happy to answer them. You can contact her at (858)-997-3457 or e-mail her at: drkewagner@gmail.com.