Finding the right help isn’t easy.  If you’re not sure we are right for you, just contact us and we’ll answer any question you may have. 

Because we know that the choice of a therapist or mediator is a very sensitive and important one, we want you to be confident and well informed. To help, here are answers to some of our most frequently asked questions. 

If you don’t see your question or concern listed here, we’d love to your input and we’re eager to provide an answer that puts you at ease. Just call our office: 618-233-9355, or email: sierracounseling@viviansierra.com

Is therapy right for me? 

Our short answer is: therapy is right for anyone trying to get the most out of life. There are many reasons why people come to therapy. Sometimes, it’s to deal with difficult feelings, behaviors that you can’t seem to change, or perhaps frustration due to unmet goals.  Other times, it’s in response to sudden life changes, like divorce or job loss. Many people talk to counselors to get insight, support, create a plan, and learn the skills to manage life’s challenges. So if you’re ready to make positive changes in your life – but aren’t quite sure how to get there – counseling may be your answer.

Do I need counseling? 

It’s no secret that life can be difficult. Although most of the time you can handle it, there may be times when problems become overwhelming and you feel like you’re spinning your wheels. What you’re facing may be unfamiliar, complicated, and have real and serious consequences. If you’re dealing with problems on your own and nothing you’ve tried seems to be working, the time is right to consider counseling. You don’t have to be alone in this: We’re here to help.

How long does counseling take? 

How long someone goes for counseling depends on the problem(s) they’re dealing with, and what they want out of it. The average number of sessions is six. However, this is something you and your counselor can and should discuss. Some problems can be more difficult or chronic.

What is therapy like? 

Talk therapy feels like a conversation with a good friend. The difference is the focus is solely on you, your concerns and how to move forward in your life and achieve the goals you set.  Good therapy provides a safe and comfortable place for you to talk, sort out your feelings, to figure out what it is you want, build awareness and teach skills.  Each session lasts approximately 50 minutes, and the best results come from attending regular sessions – typically weekly or every other week. Sometimes the problems require more sessions or fewer, depending on their nature. Your counselor will let you know how often they would like you to come to get the best results.
 

How much does counseling cost?

Most insurance companies cover a large portion of the costs of counseling and therapy.  EAPs will cover all the cost for a limited number of visits, and the benefits offered by your insurance company and EAP will vary. Typically, most insurance companies will cover individual, family/marital, group, and behavioral therapy. Other services, such as workshops and presentations, will vary depending on the time and content. Please contact our office staff to verify any and all fees not covered by insurance, or should you wish to pay without insurance. 

Is counseling confidential? 

Yes it is, with some exceptions. As professionals, we are required by law and ethics to guard your privacy. However, when we conclude that what you have told us presents a high risk of harm to yourself or someone else, the law mandates that we report this danger and take appropriate steps to guard your safety and/or the safety of others.