How often will I be coming and how long does counseling last?
The first session/initial session is a time for you to share the challenges that bring you into see me. Ideally, the first 6 meetings will be weekly so that we can build a strong working relationship. After that, we can discuss your continued needs (i.e. bi-weekly or monthly sessions, 30 minute appts, online check-in sessions, etc). The average number of meetings is 10-15, at which point many people feel like they’ve gotten what they needed from counseling for that season in their life. However, once the counseling relationship is established, the door is always open for future “check-ins” and consults. Counseling is not typically a “one and done” kind of thing. Life continues and so do challenges. Knowing and learning skills to help you get through it is important and a refresh is sometimes needed.
NOTE: Some issues that bring people in to counseling require more than the above stated 10-15 sessions. The more intense and/or long term the issues are when you start counseling, the longer counseling may tend to last (i.e. childhood abuse tends to require more long-term support, with the need for “time-off” from the healing process).
Since everyone and every situation is different, the duration of counseling will vary for everyone. Ultimately, how long counseling lasts is up to you. You are in charge of your life and I am here to help you. We will work together on your plan and you get to say when you’ve reached your goals. We will keep the discussion open on this topic throughout our time together.
What is therapy like?
This will vary for everyone. We will utilize different interventions and “tools” to help with your unique situation. You may be asked to do homework, assessments, and other things to help you through this process. The process isn’t always easy as you work through the changes and challenges but I will be here with you. We may not always use the office space. Sometimes we will work in the office, sometimes take a walk outside, alternative locations, and sometimes it is at your home. We will discuss the changing needs as they arise.
What type of therapy do you use?
Short answer, we utilize the technique that is best for your situation. Sometimes this means employing evidenced based practices like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), Mindfulness, Behavioral therapy, or any number of therapy or counseling approaches. We use evidenced- based practices because they are just that, evidenced-based. We want to make sure you are equipped to move into the next adventure with a solid ground of skills and understanding of yourself.
What is “telemental health” counseling?
Good question. Telemental health is called many names but basically it is online counseling. We will meet in the comfort of your home, work or even car. Telemental counseling has been utilized for many years via phone and online and has shown the same outcomes as meeting in an office. I will discuss the process with you which includes a HIPAA compliant website for us to see each other face-to-face. This is a great option if you are located in Kentucky or Georgia (outside of Savannah) or just need a convenient way to seek counseling.
Do you take insurance?
Yes and no. December Goad is approved to take several insurance and EAP’s so you can contact her regarding your insurance provider. However, all our therapists provide sliding scale and Out of Network benefits as options which can sometimes be less to use than your insurance. We will help navigate you through the process to find the best fit for your needs.