What is psychotherapy and what can I expect?

Here is a wonderful resource from the American Psychological Association for more information on therapy and what to expect!

“Understanding psychotherapy and how it works”

Therapy Process, Benefits, and Risks: Psychotherapy depends on cooperation and honest dialog between you and your therapist. Although it can help with self-awareness, better communication, reducing conflict, and altering distressing moods, there may also be periods of unpleasantness. There are no guarantees of outcome, and you have the right to stop at any time; however, it is recommend to have a closure session before termination or therapist change, and you will be responsible for payment of services already received.

Confidentiality

Feelings of trust and safety are critical for personal growth and relationship building, and this includes, the therapeutic relationship we will have. Therefore, confidentiality is taken very seriously. All conversations and correspondence between us will remain confidential. Laws are also in place to protect your privacy. The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA), for example, is a federal law that sets national standards for the protection of individuals' medical records and personal health information, including information about psychotherapy and mental health.

When can a therapist share my private information without my permission?

In some specific situations, psychologists can share information without your permission. Common exceptions to confidentiality are:

Can a therapist talk to others about me?

Sometimes, therapists find it helpful to discuss your concerns or behaviors with other people in your life. A therapist may want to interview your spouse to better understand what's going on in your home, for example. And if a child is having trouble at school, the therapist may want to interview the child's teachers. 

Similarly, your therapist may ask for your consent to share information, or discuss your care, with your other health care professionals to coordinate your care. 

But whether you allow others to be involved in your care is completely up to you. Therapists generally cannot contact anyone else without your permission.

If you have specific concerns about confidentiality or what information a therapist is legally permitted or required to disclose, discuss it with your therapist. They will be happy to help you understand your rights.

I'm older than 18, but still use my parents' insurance. What do I need to know about privacy?

When a person receives services using health insurance, the insurance company sends a statement called an Explanation of Benefits (EOB) that explains which services were used and paid for. If you use your parents' insurance for psychotherapy services, your parents may receive an EOB that outlines the services you used. 

However, they will not be able to access your records or find out what you discussed during your sessions with a therapist.

I'm under 18. Will the psychologist tell my parents what we talk about?

Therapists want you to feel comfortable sharing your feelings and are careful to respect your privacy. Often, at the first therapy visit, the therapist will sit down with you and your parent/guardian(s) to discuss ground rules for privacy. That way both you and your parent/guardian(s) know exactly what types of information the psychologist might share, and what he or she will keep private. For example, it is common for parents to agree to be informed only if their minor child is engaged in risky activities. Remember, the goal is to keep you safe and healthy. 

Ohio’s law on outpatient services for minors without guardian consent.

Please call and I will do my best to answer any of your questions.