Frequently Asked Questions
Is therapy really confidential?
Legal protection of client information is the foundation of successful therapy. Clients can be assured that their participation in therapy and any identifying information is not shared with anyone unless it is specifically requested by the client - or in the rare exception to prevent immediate danger to self or others. Mental health providers are legally required to report abuse or neglect of a child or vulnerable person, must respond to a court order requiring information, and have a duty to warn/intervene in the event of imminent risk of ending one's life or a specific plan to physically harm another.
How does therapy work? Will talking about my problem be helpful?
Talk therapy resembles an ordinary conversation in many ways, so what makes it special? Unlike conversations with friends, therapy focuses on the client, their feelings, thoughts, and experiences. The client is accepted just as they are regardless of what they say or have done, and confidentiality is guaranteed. The therapist will guide the conversation and facilitate new insights in which the client can be open and honest. They can use the therapy space to examine patterns in their life with the expert feedback and conceptualization skills of the therapist.
I don't know why I am feeling this way or what I am going to talk about for an hour. Does this mean therapy is not for me?
It is very common that clients start therapy not knowing what to talk about. They may have many positive things in their life and cannot find any reason for feeling low or anxious. By definition, anxiety and depression do not have an external reason for feeling bad. As a licensed psychologist, we provide the expertise to help guide the session, and the client only needs to be willing and open to engage.
How long will I need therapy?
The number of sessions needed for symptom reduction or change varies based on several factors. Some may get what they need from just one session, while others might attend therapy weekly for several months. Your input regarding your course of therapy is important and we will work together to determine what is best for you, your health, your budget, and your time. The advantage of a concierge model allows us to tailor to your needs, whether short term or on-going support.
Do I have to attend every week or can I have therapy once every two weeks or once per month?
Similar to the question above, it is important that the client collaborates on decisions regarding frequency of appointments. In general, it is recommended to meet once weekly for the first 3 - 5 weeks in order to develop a strong working relationship and allow time for a full understanding of the client and their concerns. Some client situations may warrant meeting more or less frequently, and will be determined on an individual basis.
Is my problem too simple? What if my problem isn't serious enough for therapy?
Comparing pain is quite common and when we see others suffering we may believe that our own suffering is not justified in comparison. There is no threshold of pain or suffering required for therapy. The only reason a concern would not be appropriate for therapy is if the client is not interested in change or growth. Therapy is useful for self-understanding, support, and growth even without a defined "problem." This is one of many advantages of being out of network with insurance companies who require a formal diagnosis in order to reimburse for therapy.
What if I am "too much?" Is there hope that therapy will be helpful for me?
It is easy to lose hope after a long time of repeated patterns and messages that you are "too much." Emotions are important and necessary, and they are sometimes uncomfortable for others in our lives to understand. Therapy can be a safe place to explore emotions with a professional who can validate your experiences and provide insight into how these messages have impacted your sense of self. There are some client concerns that will respond better to interventions other than individual therapy, but most clients who have a desire to change can benefit from talk therapy. If after the initial assessment it is determined that a different therapeutic service will be more effective, the client will be informed and that service will be recommended.
Do you prescribe medication?
No, a licensed psychologist is a specialist in psychotherapy, known as talk therapy, and does not have prescribing privileges. If a client is looking for a doctor who can prescribe, they would need to seek out a general physician or a psychiatrist, who is an MD who specializes in prescribing mental health or psychotropic medications. Dr. Markle can help support the process of identifying/recommending a prescriber and can assist in coordinating a medication consultation.
My family member needs help but is not willing to go on their own. Is there a way I can get them to see someone?
Therapy is most effective when it is sought out voluntarily. As a result, Markle Professional Counseling only sees clients who are willingly seeking services. If a person is reluctant to engage in therapy, they may benefit from a loved one arranging a brief phone call with the therapist to help them feel more comfortable and to get a better idea of how therapy can be helpful to them. Sometimes that is all it takes for them to be willing to try a few sessions. If someone is a danger to themselves or others and is not willing to get help, there is a process available through most community mental health centers to assist families in crisis. Dr. Markle is available for consultations to talk with individuals about their concerns for family members/potential clients.