Frequently Asked Questions
Starting therapy can bring up a lot of questions, and we're here to provide clarity and support every step of the way. This FAQ section is designed to help you make an informed decision about beginning therapy.
Below, you'll find answers to common questions about our services, therapeutic approaches, and what to expect in your journey with us.
FAQ
How do i know if therapy is right for me?
Therapy is beneficial for everyone. At some point in life, we all encounter challenges-whether they are related to self-growth, grief, anxiety, life transitions, or day-to-day stressors. THERAPISTS NEED THERAPISTS TOO! While some individuals may benefit from short-term support, others may engage in therapy for a longer duration. Regardless of the length of treatment, having a trained professional to help navigate personal challenges, identify triggers, and develop coping strategies can be invaluable.
However, the most important factor in therapy is the relationship between the client and the therapist. You could work with the most highly regarded therapist in the world, but if there isn’t a therapeutic bond, you won’t see much progress. That’s why, at Inclusive Journeys Psychotherapy, we prioritize the therapist-client match. We offer a complimentary consultation to help ensure that our clients feel comfortable and confident in their therapist’s expertise and approach.
Ultimately, therapy is a personal decision, and all clients have the right to self-determination. If you feel that a particular therapist or therapy itself isn’t the right fit for you, you are not obligated to continue. That said, research consistently shows that therapy is effective-when you find the right therapist for your needs, it can be a transformative experience. The key is working with someone who understands your concerns and provides a safe, supportive space for growth.
Are therapists qualified to diagnose?
Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs) have diagnostic privileges and are qualified to provide mental health diagnoses in New York State. If your therapist is a Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW), they practice under the supervision of the Clinical Director to ensure they meet the highest standards of psychotherapy, assessment, and treatment planning. The Clinical Director will conduct your Intake Session (diagnostic evaluation) and your therapy sessions will be scheduled with your selected psychotherapist. The Clinical Director oversees all psychotherapists’ work, provides regular supervision, and offers training as needed to support the ongoing development of their clinical skills.
All therapists at Inclusive Journeys Psychotherapy have extensive experience and specialized training in providing evidence-based care. Additionally, the Clinical Director holds postgraduate education and certification in Advanced Assessment and Diagnosing from New York University, further enhancing their ability to accurately asses mental health conditions, rule out alternative diagnoses, and identify comorbidities. This expertise ensures that every client receives a thorough and individualized diagnostic process to guide effective treatment.
What happens if i miss a session or need to cancel?
The practice has a 24-hour cancellation policy. If you need to reschedule or cancel, please notify your provider to avoid a cancellation fee. If you are more than 15 minutes late to your session, it will be considered a no-show, which will also result in a cancellation fee. As sessions are scheduled on the hour, providers are unable to extend your session time.
what's the difference between therapy and coaching?
Therapy focuses on addressing emotional mental health, and psychological challenges, often exploring the underlying causes of distress and developing coping strategies. In contrast, coaching is goal-oriented and centers on skill-building, personal growth, and achieving specific milestones in professional or personal life. While licensed therapists may integrate coaching techniques, such as goal setting and action planning, coaches are not licensed mental health professionals and cannot provide therapy. If you are seeking support for past experiences, emotional processing, or mental health concerns, therapy may be the more appropriate option.
I'm an adult and have had difficulty getting evaluated for attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Is that something your practice offers?
Yes, at Inclusive Journeys Psychotherapy, we understand the complexities surrounding ADHD diagnoses – whether it’s being diagnosed later in life, experiencing misdiagnosis, or navigating the widespread misunderstandings about ADHD. Our practice recognizes the importance of accurate assessment and support for individuals seeking clarity.
Our Clinical Director is an ADHD Certified Clinical Service Provider (ADHD-CCSP) with specialized training in assessing, diagnosing, and supporting adults with ADHD. If you are seeking only an ADHD evaluation, the Clinical Director can conduct a comprehensive assessment as a private-pay service.
For clients engaged in ongoing therapy with our practice, a brief diagnostic evaluation can be completed by either your therapist or the Clinical Director to determine if you meet the criteria for an ADHD diagnosis.
Additionally, the Clinical Director is a professional member of Children and Adults with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (CHADD), ensuring our practice stays informed on the latest research, resources, and best practices in ADHD care. Whether you are looking for formal documentation, accommodations, or simply a better understanding of your experiences, we are here to help guide you through the process with expertise and support.
How do you protect my privacy during telehealth sessions?
Secure, HIPAA-compliant telehealth platforms are used to ensure your sessions are private and confidential. We also follow all ethical and legal guidelines to safeguard your personal information.
Do you provide psychotropic medications?
No, Inclusive Journeys Psychotherapy does not prescribe or manage psychotropic medications. Our practice consists solely of licensed therapists providing therapeutic services. We do not have a psychiatrist or psychiatric nurse practitioner on staff for medication management.
However, if you are interested in exploring medication as part of your care, we are happy to provide referrals to trusted providers who specialize in medication management.
