FAQs
How do I know if I need therapy?
The reason each person begins therapy is different. Some people choose to seek therapy to receive support while making a life decision. Others seek therapy to learn tools for coping strategies for challenges they face. Others want to have an unbiased listening ear as they sort through their thoughts and feelings. We will start the therapy process by identifying your specific motivation and needs.
I’m anxious about starting therapy. What can I expect?
Don’t worry, most people are very anxious in the beginning. Wanting to know what to expect is understandable. During the first session, we will talk about your challenges and your goals for therapy. Between the first and second session you will complete a few screenings to identify a baseline for your level of anxiety, stress, depression, and overall wellbeing. You will also complete a New Client Questionnaire that will tell me more about you, and we will use this to create a treatment plan. This treatment plan will be a roadmap for your therapy journey and will let you know what to expect in future sessions.
How does online therapy work?
Online therapy follows a similar format of traditional face-to-face therapy but is delivered via a secure video platform. During an online therapy session, we will access a private therapy room and utilize video capabilities to communicate. Online therapy provides all of the benefits of traditional therapy, plus flexible scheduling and convenience of conducting sessions from home.
I don’t know if I’ll like online therapy. Can I be seen in person?
Moments of Clarity specializes in online therapy and does not offer in person sessions. Additionally, services are provided in states where the therapist is not located. In these instances, in person sessions are not possible.
Are therapy sessions private?
The therapy room is our private space to connect and engage in full transparency. Confidentiality on the part of the client and the therapist is strictly enforced, and is also why it is so important for the client to identify a quiet and private space for sessions. There are rare circumstances in which therapists are mandated to break confidentiality: detailed plans to harm self and/or others, future/past child/elder harm, and some legal mandates. Confidentiality will be thoroughly discussed during the intake session.
Do you take insurance?
For services that are covered by insurance, Amanda Spriggs is in-network with several insurance companies, which vary depending on state of residency. Please refer to the Rates & Insurance tab for more information pertaining to insurance coverage.
How often will sessions be?
For most clients, sessions will start off on a weekly basis. As progress is made and symptoms reduce, we will transition to bi-weekly. Then move to monthly to ensure maintenance of goals. Occasionally there are new and unforeseen circumstances that arise while someone is in therapy. In this case, it is always an option to increase sessions for additional support.
What’s the difference between talking to you or my best friend or family?
Friends and family are great when you need a listening ear, but they often don’t know what to say or how to help. Or perhaps you are concerned about telling them what you’re struggling with. A mental health professional can help you approach your situation in a new way– teach you new skills, gain different perspectives, listen to you without judgment or expectations, and help you listen to yourself. Furthermore, counseling is completely confidential. You won’t have to worry about your personal information being shared at the dinner table or in the heat of an argument.
Do I have to take medication?
The decision to take medication is a very personal one. Some individuals choose to take medication while participating in therapy in order to more thoroughly reduce or eliminate symptoms. Others are hesitant about medication and wish to focus on therapy in hopes they will not need medication. Whatever your perspective, we can walk through this together to determine the best course for you. I do not prescribe medication, but if you do choose to participate in medication management, I am happy to coordinate services with your prescriber.
I want to get the most out of therapy. What can I do to help?
I am so glad you are dedicated to getting the most out of your sessions! The greatest factor of success that I have seen in clients is based on their active participation in sessions, as well as their dedication to practice skills between sessions. Consider a basketball player that only practices once a week for 45 minutes. They would gain so much more skill if they also practiced at home or with friends. As with basketball, the more time, effort, and energy you put in to therapy, the greater your outcome will be.