Welcome to Insights Counseling
Counseling is conducted in a number of different ways, depending on client needs and the preferred methods of the counselor. While I primarily favor a Cognitive Behavioral approach, I do often use what is known as an Eclectic Technique, drawing on a range of counseling and therapy protocols and methods depending on the client's specific issues or problems. As for Cognitive Behavioral therapy, it basically seeks to answer the two most basic questions: “Why do I do what I don't want to do?” And “What drives me to do what I am doing?”
So we will be examining both “Thoughts” and “Behaviors”.
The Process of Counseling
When people come to counseling, it is because they want something to change in their lives. They may want to change their life situations, solve a particular problem, make a decision, or understand what is happening within the inner self mentally and emotionally. As a first step in counseling, you and I will explore your concerns and what changes you want. When we both understand your situation more clearly, I will help you devise various ways to get what you want so long as it is reasonable and feasible. Part of our counseling will address and define what is reasonable and feasible. For counseling to be most effective, you must make a commitment of time and energy and take an active part in the process; this may well require you undertake homework and assigned tasks between sessions, such as reading articles, doing self-monitoring, journaling thoughts, or practicing new skills.
My Responsibilities as a Counselor
I will keep anything that you tell me in strictest confidence unless I have your permission to tell someone. The only exceptions are: (1) I may consult with other professional therapists about your concerns and how I might proceed in order to help you, but I will do so without using your name. You have the right to tell me not to consult with anyone. (2) If you tell me you are going to harm yourself or someone else, I am required by law to do anything I reasonably can to prevent that. (3) If you disclose sexual or other abuse involving a minor I am required by law to inform the authorities. (4) Most insurance companies require a diagnosis, a treatment strategy, anda summary progress report. If you intend to bill your insurance company for our sessions, you might want to check on their requirements first.
Your Rights as a Client
You have the right to understand my reasons for suggesting particular procedures. I will try to explain clearly, but if you have any reservations, please ask them. You also have the right not to do anything I suggest. And you have the right at any time to decide you do not wish to continue counseling