Frequently Asked Questions

What can I expect during my first therapy session?
In our first session, we’ll focus on getting to know each other. You can share what brought you to therapy, and I’ll ask some questions to better understand your needs. We’ll keep things conversational and relaxed, with no pressure to dive into anything you’re not ready for.

How do I know if therapy is right for me?
Therapy can be beneficial for anyone looking to improve their communication, boundaries, or overall well-being. If you’re unsure whether it’s the right time, know that therapy is a space where we can explore that uncertainty together, without judgment or pressure.

How long does therapy usually last?
The length of therapy depends on your goals and needs. Some people find a few sessions helpful, while others prefer longer-term work. We’ll regularly check in to see how you’re feeling about our progress and adjust accordingly.

What therapeutic approaches do you use?
I use a blend of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), client-centered therapy, and solution-focused approaches. I also incorporate mindfulness and whole-person wellness to help you build emotional intelligence and autonomy.

How do I prepare for my first therapy session?
No special preparation is needed. Just come as you are. You’re welcome to think about what you’d like to discuss or any goals you have, but there’s no pressure to have everything figured out before we meet.

Do I need to talk about everything right away?
Not at all. You set the pace. We can start with what you’re comfortable sharing, and we’ll gradually work through things as you feel ready. There’s no rush or pressure to dive deep until it feels right for you.

Will you give me advice or tell me what to do?
I won’t tell you what to do, but I will help you explore your options and guide you in making decisions that feel right for you. My role is to empower you to trust your own judgment and find solutions that fit your life. I do try to end each session with discussion on action steps you can try between sessions.

What’s the difference between therapy and just talking to a friend?
Therapy offers a structured, non-judgmental space to explore your thoughts and feelings with a trained professional. While friends can be supportive, therapy helps you build skills, gain insight, and work through deeper issues in a more focused and guided way.

How do you handle confidentiality?
Everything you share in therapy is confidential, except in cases where there’s a legal obligation to report harm to yourself or others. I take confidentiality very seriously and will always discuss any necessary disclosures with you.

How often should I attend therapy sessions?
Most people start with weekly sessions, but the frequency depends on your needs and goals. We can adjust the schedule as we go to fit what works best for you, whether that’s more or less frequent.

Can therapy help if I don’t have a diagnosed mental illness?
Absolutely. You don’t need a diagnosis to benefit from therapy. Many people come to work on communication, boundaries, stress management, or other life challenges. Therapy is for anyone seeking personal growth and emotional well-being.

What should I do if I feel nervous or anxious about starting therapy?
It’s completely normal to feel nervous. We’ll go at a pace that feels comfortable, and there’s no pressure to share more than you’re ready for. Therapy is a space where you can take your time to feel safe and supported.

How will I know if therapy is working for me?
You’ll start noticing changes in how you handle situations, communicate, and relate to others. We’ll regularly check in to discuss your progress, and if something isn’t working, we’ll adjust the approach to better suit your needs.

Is therapy covered by insurance, and how does payment work?
This depends on your insurance provider. I recommend checking with them to see what’s covered. We can discuss payment options during our first conversation to find a plan that works for you.

What happens if I don’t feel a connection with you as my therapist?
It’s important that you feel comfortable with your therapist. If you don’t feel a connection, we can discuss it openly. I’m happy to help you find someone who might be a better fit if needed—your comfort is my priority.

What is your approach to dealing with anxiety, stress, and life transitions?
I use practical tools from CBT, mindfulness, and solution-focused therapy to help you manage anxiety and stress. We’ll work on skills like emotional regulation, self-awareness, and finding balance during life transitions, so you feel more grounded and empowered.

Do you offer online or in-person sessions?
I offer online sessions only, allowing you the flexibility to attend therapy from the comfort of your home or wherever you feel most at ease. We’ll work together to make sure the online format suits your needs, and I’ll guide you through the process if you’re new to virtual therapy.

Can I choose what we talk about during our sessions?
Yes! You are always in control of what we discuss. Therapy is a collaborative process, and we’ll focus on the issues that are most important to you. If something feels more pressing, we can shift focus as needed.

How can therapy help me with communication and setting boundaries?
We’ll work on identifying your communication patterns and exploring ways to assert your needs effectively. I’ll guide you in setting healthy boundaries with others, ensuring you feel confident in maintaining those boundaries without guilt or fear.

What is the difference between short-term and long-term therapy?
Short-term therapy focuses on immediate concerns and building specific skills, while long-term therapy allows for deeper exploration of patterns and more complex issues. The choice depends on your needs and goals, and we can discuss which approach suits you best.

Still Have Questions?
If you have any other questions or want to learn more about how therapy could benefit you, I invite you to schedule a free consultation. It’s a great opportunity to discuss your needs and see if we’re a good fit. Just click
Schedule a Free Consultation on this page to get started—I look forward to connecting with you!

Contact me.

info@best-life-counseling.com
(406) 692-8014

Serving Clients Online in Montana, Maine, Florida and Idaho