Question 1

What should I do if I'm in crisis?

Accepted Answer

If you are currently experiencing a behavioral health emergency, DO NOT call or message me directly. I may be with another client and unable to respond. 
In the case of a crisis, do one of the following:
-Call 911 or 988
-Call Re:Solve Crisis Network: 1-888-7-YOU-CAN or call your local crisis hotline
-Go immediately to your nearest emergency room

I am unable to support those in need of after-hours/on-call or crisis services. If you believe that you need a higher level of care I can refer you to service providers who are able to meet that need.

Question 2

What should I expect the first time we meet?

Accepted Answer

Before your first scheduled appointment you should receive an email to access the Simple Practice Client Portal. There you will sign the necessary releases and fill out some initial paperwork about why you are seeking counseling treatment. At your first meeting, I will review this information with you and clarify any questions, taking an opportunity to fully understand your personal history and current situation. We will work together to create a basic outline of the key issues to be addressed in therapy sessions.
 
Your only job is to be open and ask questions as you feel a need. A lot of things may be going through your mind in that first therapy session. Listen to your reactions and share them, if you feel comfortable doing so. Both you and I will learn from these insights.
 
The relationship that you build with your therapist is one of the most important aspects of counseling.  Feeling comfortable and connected to the therapist is a great part of what allows healing to occur and the therapeutic process to be effective. My goal is to understand what is occurring in your life in order to be beside you in this process of moving from frustration, anxiety, and depression to having a clear plan for creating a happier and more content life.

Question 3

Will my sessions be confidential?

Accepted Answer

Confidentiality is at the heart of the counseling relationship, allowing you a safe place to address personal issues. Your privacy is of the utmost importance and all of your information will be kept completely confidential, to the greatest extent that the law allows.  
 
Children ages 14 and older are afforded by law the same confidentiality as adults, therefore a parent/guardian must participate in the first session  so that confidentiality guidelines can be discussed and understood by both parents and teens.
 
Legal limits to confidentiality will be discussed at the first session, and they include:
 1. A legal obligation to report to authorities any information that suggests that a child or elder has been, is currently being, or is potentially being harmed.
2. Legal obligation to disclose any information that suggests that a client is a danger to themselves or others.
3. If a client is in litigation, there is a possibility that their therapy file may be subpoenaed.
 
Please note that if you are using health insurance to cover therapy, as with all other medical services your insurance carrier has a right to your diagnosis and basic treatment goal information.

Question 4

How long will I need to come to therapy?

Accepted Answer

The length of time in therapy depends on many factors, which are unique to the client and to the issues to be addressed. A client usually feels that therapy has been successful when they notice that they are less worried or troubled. They often now have new energy, interest, or enthusiasm about things in their life, as well as increased confidence to tackle new challenges on their own.
 
Successful therapy depends on maintaining consistency in treatment, therefore attending regularly scheduled sessions is important.

Question 5

What do I need to know about teletherapy sessions?

Accepted Answer

I provide teletherapy using the encrypted & HIPAA-compliant platform, SimplePractice. No special equipment is needed; You can access the platform using your smartphone, tablet, or computer.
Though the technology is sophisticated, glitches may occur. This may require greater patience and understanding by both the therapist and the client for healthy and effective communication. Furthermore, emotional cues are more difficult to read across a screen, which again may affect the communication between the participants.
If you are a looking for more information about how telehealth works, what you need to participate in a telehealth session, or with general FAQ’a about telehealth please view the SimplePractice Client Portal Telehealth Guide by clicking here.
 
Many health insurance companies now include coverage for teletherapy, but it is highly recommended that you check with your insurance carrier before engaging in this course of treatment. If your insurance does not cover the service you will be responsible for the costs incurred 
 
Though telehealth can greatly reduce barriers to getting treatment, it is not necessarily the best option for everyone. Telehealth may not be a good option for you if: 
-You strongly desire a traditional course of treatment
-You are actively suicidal and/or homicidal
-You are actively manic or psychotic
-You have concerns regarding your own privacy or safety in the course of telehealth treatment

Question 6

What if I need to cancel my appointment?

Accepted Answer

If you need to cancel your appointment, please do so at least 24 hours in advance of your scheduled session time. You will be responsible for a $75 fee for the time reserved when cancellations are received less than 24 hours in advance. 
You can cancel an appointment through the SimplePractice Client Portal or by calling or emailing me directly.

Jamie Harkins Counseling

If you are in crisis please call the Crisis Line at 988

Frequently asked questions