Elvira M. Medus, LCSW

What is psychotherapy?

Psychotherapy, also called talk therapy, therapy or counseling, is a process focused on helping you heal and learn more constructive ways to deal with the problems or issues within your life. 

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Do you provide online psychotherapy?

Yes, I provide in-person and on-line psychotherapy. I have noticed that in-person psychotherapy could sometimes feel inconvenient and inaccessible. Online psychotherapy offers a sustainable alternative to these problems. The client can get help from wherever he/she is in the world and does not have to travel to the therapist's office. My confidence in this modality comes primarily from the positive feedback I receive from my online clients. Since each person's circumstances and needs are different, I offer a first online session at no cost. This is a way to experience the online modality first-hand and decide later whether it feels right for you or not. 

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When should I consider psychotherapy?

Sometimes people don’t seek professional help because of stigma and stereotypes, like the belief that it is only for seriously ill people. But, psychotherapy could be helpful simply when life gets hard. People have many different motivations to come to psychotherapy. Some may be going through a major life transition (unemployment, divorce, new job) or are not handling stressful circumstances well.  Some people need assistance managing a range of other issues such as low self-esteem, depression, anxiety, relationship problems or spiritual conflicts. Therapy can help provide encouragement and help with skills to get them through these periods. Others may be at a point where they are ready to learn more about themselves or want to be more effective with their goals in life. Overall, people seeking psychotherapy are ready to make chances to meet the challenges in their lives. If you are one of them, the earlier you get help, the easier it is to get through the problems.

 

Do I really need therapy?  

Everyone goes through challenging situations in life, and while you may have successfully navigated through other difficulties you've faced, there's nothing wrong with seeking out extra support when you need it. In fact, therapy is for people who have enough self-awareness to realize they need a helping hand and that is something to be admired. You are taking responsibility by accepting where you are at in life and making a commitment to change the situation by seeking therapy. Therapy provides long-lasting benefits and support giving you the tools you need to avoid triggers, re-direct damaging patterns, and overcome whatever challenges you face. 

 

When not to seek psychotherapy?

I find therapy does not go well when people start it to satisfy someone else’s needs or simple because they have been ‘told’ to attend. If you have reluctantly engaged in therapy or you are doing it out of duty or obligation, you may not get the best from the process. Generally, it is better to come into therapy through the understanding that even though others may benefit from you having treatment, therapy is a personal choice because it is right for you and you alone.

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What should I expect?

Get used to the idea that some sessions might feel satisfying with ‘breakthroughs’ or ‘eureka’ moments, while others might feel mundane and frustrating. As with all things, there is rhythm and a flow to therapy. In addition, talking about and learning that one’s own life might be unappealing, frustrating, painful or boring can be a difficult process and often demoralizing at first. More often than not, I see people become more depressed or more anxious before they move forward and become healthier. Sticking with the process is important. Once light is brought into those dark areas, you can then start to face the world more realistically and with grace.

 

Am I going to gain self-esteem?

Self-esteem builds up of one’s own view of self through gaining confidence in one’s own abilities. However, the more satisfying goal in psychotherapy is to work on gaining self-worth. Self-worth is accepting that one has worth and value no matter how good or bad we are at some task or other. Through a healthier understanding of yourself you will gain the ultimate goal of therapy of unconditional self-acceptance; this is when you can fully realize and accept yourself for who you truly are. 

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What if you want to talk about something but feel scared of sharing?

The more honest and open you can be, the more helpful the process will be. Facing your difficulties and negative views authentically will help make your therapy successful. However, don't worry if you can't be open initially. The more you get to know your therapist and feel comfortable in the process the more transparent you will become. 

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How long will I be in therapy?skyland

Because each person has different issues and goals for therapy, therapy will be different depending on the specific individual needs. Therapy could be as short as 4 to 5 sessions for a specific issue or as long as one year or more to deal with more difficult patterns or for more personal development.

 

How often do I meet with my therapist?

I typically work with clients on a weekly basis. However, frequency is a decision that we will make together.

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Does what we talk about in therapy remain confidential?

Confidentiality is one of the most important components between a client and psychotherapist. Successful therapy requires a high degree of trust with highly sensitive subject matter that is usually not discussed anywhere but the therapist's office. You can expect that what you discuss in session will not be shared with anyone. Sometimes, however, you may want your therapist to share information or give an update to someone on your healthcare team (your Physician, Attorney). But, by law, I cannot release any information without obtaining your written permission.

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State law and professional ethics require therapists to maintain confidentiality except for the following situations:

* Suspected past or present abuse or neglect of children, adults, and elders.

* If the therapist has reason to suspect the client is seriously in danger of harming him/herself or has threaten to harm another person.

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​Do I need to fill out any form?

There is no need to fill out any form in advance. I will let you know which forms I need you to fill out in our first session. 

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How much is the session?

The fee for individual psychotherapy is $150 per 45-minute session. However, if you cannot manage to pay the fee I trust we can work together towards a payment plan that suits your requirements.

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Do you accept insurance?

Insurances are not accepted. However, if you have out-of-network coverage for outpatient mental health services, your fee for individual therapy may be covered in full or in part by your health insurance or employee benefit plan once the annual deductible is met.  

Please check your coverage carefully by asking the following questions:

• Do I have out-of-network benefits for outpatient mental health services?

• What is the size of my annual deductible?

• How much of my annual deductible has been met to date?

• How many sessions per year does my health insurance cover?

• Is approval required from my primary care physician?​

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Can I cancel a session?

Yes, you can cancel your session with 24 hours in advance. If you miss your scheduled appointment and you have not notified me at least 24 hours in advance, you will be required to pay the full cost of the session unless otherwise arranged.

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How can I pay for the sessions?

For individual psychotherapy, Venmo or checks are accepted. 

 

How can I schedule a first appointment?

If you would like to begin therapy you can request an appointment in the 'First Appointment' section.