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Frequently Asked Questions
How do I find a therapist that will work for me?
There are many kinds of therapists with different training (see list below). You may want to call
several to see if you have a "good fit" with the therapist. A "good fit" generally
involves an ease of communication, and having the sense that your style of communication matches that of the
therapist. The most important thing in therapy is the therapeutic relationship - or the connection you
feel with your therapist. While studies have shown that all empirically validated therapies help
alleviate symptoms, the relationship has been found to be the most important clinical factor.
Therapists may practice under several titles, such as Psychologists, Psychiatrists, Social Workers,
Psychotherapists, Counselors, and Coaches.
A psychologist holds a doctorate in psychology (Psy.D. or Ph.D.) and is licensed by the state to practice
therapy. Psychologists may also perform psychological assessments.
A psychiatrist is a medical doctor (M.D.) who specializes in mental health, and is licensed to prescribe
medications. Due to their demand, most psychiatrists in
Denver provide medication management and not therapy.
Social Workers (M.S.W. & L.C.S.W.) have master’s level training that usually includes training in
counseling and therapy. The job titles of counselor or psychotherapist can be used by anyone in the state of
Colorado, regardless of training or background, and no licensure is
required. Such individuals should be registered with the State Department of Regulatory Agencies as
“Unlicensed Psychotherapists.” Unlicensed practitioners are required by the state to be
supervised by a licensed clinician.
Coaches may assist individuals in their personal or professional lives, including career changes, time
management and strategic planning. As of 2007, the state of
Colorado determined that “coaching is an approach that may or may not
fall within the legal meaning of psychotherapy or licensed activity.” Coaches are not required to obtain
licensure or supervision, however if the client relationships appears to include psychotherapy, coaches are
held to the same regulations as other psychotherapists. Unfortunately, the regulatory boards only learn
of coaches “when a client is harmed or otherwise not satisfied with the services of the
coach.” How long will I need to participate in therapy?
This is a difficult question to answer because each person is unique. Each person faces
different issues with a unique perspective that produce individualized responses to treatment. Once you
discuss the type of problem you are facing, the therapist may be able to form an opinion about how long you may
need to attend therapy. Often clients report a decrease in their symptoms of anxiety and/or depression
after 6 to 8 sessions. Other clients prefer to take more time since once they feel comfortable and begin
talking about their initial concerns, additional questions arise that they would like to explore with the help
of their therapist. Studies have shown that the best clinical results are achieved after 26 sessions.
Results often depend on the presenting issue, your willingness to work in therapy, and the therapeutic
relationship. Some people choose to come back in to see the therapist after a period of time for a
maintenance session in order to maintain their achievements.
How much should therapy cost?
This is a big question. Prices for doctoral level therapists in the
Denver area average $100-$150 per session. Some therapists offer to adjust their
fees based upon your income. Your mental health is important and should not be discounted. Just
like your physical health is an investment, your mental health is an investment, and therapy can help you
achieve life-long results.
Will my medical insurance cover therapy?
Many medical insurance programs cover a limited number of psychotherapy sessions. The insurance
company may dictate not only the number of sessions, but also who you are able to see. If you use your
insurance, the insurance company will require the treating therapist to share information about your diagnosis
and treatment with the insurance company, which affects your privacy. While money is always an issue,
maintaining confidentiality about your issues may take precedent over obtaining reimbursement. Further,
some life insurance carriers deny insurance to individuals who have had a diagnosis of depression or bipolar
disorder. As consumers, we cannot always control who has access to our information unless we do not
disclose that information. If you choose to use insurance, I will provide you with the appropriate
documentation to file with your insurance company for reimbursement. You may also file for reimbursement
through your health savings account (HSA), if this is a benefit provided by your employer.
What can I do if I am not progressing in therapy?
The best thing to do is to talk with me so that we can evaluate together what may be preventing
progress. Is the therapeutic relationship comfortable? Are we addressing the appropriate issues? Am I serving to help you
avoid talking about difficult issues? If you believe that you cannot make progress, I will provide
referrals to other therapists or for other treatment options. It is also important to know whether you
are ready for therapy.
What if I need to cancel/change an appointment?
All appointment cancellations should be made at least 24 hours before the scheduled appointment time.
Clients who cancel within 24 hours of their appointment, or those who miss their appointment, will be
charged the full fee for a session. Please call 303-810-5275 to cancel or reschedule an appointment and leave a
message. Cancellations made through email are not accepted. | 
