frequently asked questions
Have questions before starting therapy? I have answers!
Learn how therapy can transform your mental health and well-being. At AJS Psychotherapy, I provide tailored, supportive sessions to help you address challenges, build coping strategies, and achieve personal growth. Take the first step toward a healthier, happier you by booking a session today. Your mental health deserves care and attention.
If these FAQs make you more confident about starting your journey, take a chance and book below.
FAQs About Therapy and Mental Health
what is therapy and how does it work?
Therapy, also called counseling or psychotherapy, is a process where you work one-on-one with a licensed therapist to explore your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors in a safe, supportive space. During sessions, your therapist helps you identify patterns, build coping skills, and find healthier ways to manage challenges such as anxiety, depression, stress, or relationship struggles. Therapy works by creating a consistent space for reflection and growth, allowing you to better understand yourself, improve your emotional well-being, and make lasting positive changes in your life.
How do I know if I should see a therapist?
You might consider seeing a therapist if you’re feeling overwhelmed, anxious, depressed, or stuck in patterns that are hard to break on your own. Therapy can also be helpful if you’re struggling in relationships, coping with life transitions, or wanting personal growth and support. Many people seek therapy when daily stress feels unmanageable, or when they want a safe, non-judgmental space to process emotions and build healthier coping strategies. Reaching out to a licensed therapist doesn’t mean something is “wrong” with you — it means you’re taking an important step toward caring for your mental health and overall well-being. Many people question whether or not they "need" therapy. Even if you simply want to work on being a better version of you, that is reason enough to begin this journey!
How long does therapy take to see results?
In short, there is no definitive answer to this question. The length of therapy depends on your goals, the issues you’re working on, and how often we meet. Some clients notice positive changes after just a few sessions, while others benefit from longer-term support. Many people begin to see improvements in areas like anxiety, depression, and stress management within the first few months. Therapy is not one-size-fits-all — we’ll create a plan tailored to your needs and check in regularly on your progress.
What therapy approaches do you use?
I use evidence-based therapy approaches to best support your goals. These may include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) for managing negative thought patterns, psychodynamic therapy for exploring deeper emotional roots, and mindfulness-based strategies to reduce stress and improve overall well-being. Each session is personalized, so we may integrate different techniques to find what works best for you. I do not believe in a "one size fits all" approach and feel that the best way to serve my clients is often with a combination of modalities.
How much does therapy cost?
Normally, my session rate is $200 for a 45 minute session. I am currently running a special for $150 per 45 minute session for all new clients!
AJS Psychotherapy, PLLC is a completely out of network practice. This means that I do not accept any insurance plans and every client pays the upfront out of pocket cost prior to the session start time. I understand this may be difficult for some clients, but depending on the insurance plan, there is possibility of reimbursement for out of network costs. I provide superbills for clients seeking out-of-network reimbursement, which is to be submitted directly to your insurance provider. The reimbursement process is solely between client and their insurance provider and I cannot guarantee any sort of reimbursement. During your initial session, I will be happy to review fees and answer any insurance-related questions I can so that you can feel comfortable with financial transparency.
What is your cancellation or refund policy?
I ask that clients provide at least 24 hours’ notice for cancellations or rescheduling. This allows me to reserve time for you while also being fair to other clients. Sessions canceled with less than 24 hours’ notice will be subject to a cancellation fee, which is the cost of the full session. This policy is in place to ensure fairness to the clinician's time as well as other clients.
How often do sessions take place?
Most clients attend therapy once a week, especially when beginning treatment. Depending on your needs, we may adjust to bi-weekly sessions, or meet more frequently during times of added stress. Together, we’ll create a schedule that fits your goals and lifestyle.
Is therapy confidential?
Yes, therapy is confidential. What you share in sessions stays private, with a few exceptions required by law (such as safety concerns). Confidentiality is a cornerstone of the therapeutic relationship and creates a safe space where you can be open and honest without fear of judgment. If you have questions about confidentiality, I’ll be happy to explain in more detail during our first session.
What should I expect at my first therapy session?
Your first therapy session is a chance for us to get to know each other. We’ll talk about what brings you to therapy, your personal goals, and any challenges you’re facing. I’ll also review how therapy works, answer questions you may have, and discuss what approach may best support you. Many clients feel a sense of relief after their first session, knowing they’ve taken the first step toward positive change.
What if I feel nervous about starting therapy?
It’s completely normal to feel nervous before starting therapy. Many people worry about what to say, how the process works, or whether it will really help. Therapy is a supportive, judgment-free space designed to move at your pace. During the first session, we’ll focus on getting comfortable, setting goals, and building trust. Feeling uncertain at the beginning is common, but most clients find that their anxiety eases as they experience the benefits of working with a licensed therapist.