What's the first session like? The initial intake paperwork which outlines basic expectations and logistics is provided to you prior to the first appointment through the SimplePractice client portal. Once you locate my private waiting area, settle in and I'll greet you at the time of our appointment. During the session, we'll begin to get to know each other and I'll ask you some things about your life history pertaining to family, relationships, milestones, trauma/abuse, etc. You’ll get a chance to share what brings you to therapy at this point in your life, and together, we’ll begin to create a plan for your treatment going forward. 
 

Will you tell anyone what I share with you? Your privacy is my utmost priority. I take whatever reasonable measures I can to ensure confidentiality and protect your private information. However, if I suspect abuse or neglect of a child or a person who is elderly or disabled or if I deem you to be a threat to your own life or the life of someone else, I am legally obligated to notify the appropriate authorities. In addition, if I am subpoenaed (most common in custody proceedings) I may be legally obligated to provide records I've kept pertaining to our sessions.
 

How long does therapy last? Short answer: It really depends on each person! Long answer: Some of the factors that determine the length of time in therapy include severity of symptoms, end goals, motivation for change, availability, and financial priorities. One person may view therapy as a temporary support during a crisis or significant life transition, while another may view it part of their life-long personal development process. The frequency you attend may play a role in how long therapy lasts or how effective it is for you as well. My recommendation is 1 session per week - this allows for the therapy relationship to really build and be utilized as part of the therapy process. Less frequent sessions may still be helpful, though the bond between therapist and client may not fully form particular issues may not have a chance to be more effectively explored.
 

What's your treatment approach? I take a broad, integrative approach to therapy, primarily with psychodynamic, experiential, and cognitive-behavioral leanings. I believe that both conscious and subconscious forces underpin the distress we encounter in our daily lives and relationships, and that our past experiences greatly impact our subconscious. Using tools such as cognitive restructuring, experiential techniques, behavioral pattern breaking, and the therapist-client alliance, therapy is tailored to your individual needs. Together we work to revise distressing feelings, memories, and patterns of thinking and coping that no longer serve you. ​By expanding your awareness and acceptance of yourself and the human condition, you align more and more with your authentic self. 
 

Do you take insurance? I do not work with any insurance companies directly, but because I'm a licensed mental health professional, I can provide what is called a "superbill" which is a sort of statement you submit to your insurance company for reimbursement, that that is something they offer. Learn more here.
 

How do I know if therapy is right for me? Therapy is for everyone. You don't have to have a mental breakdown or have your life in shambles to qualify. Outpatient therapy actually makes the most sense for those who are "highly functioning" and feeling stuck in unhelpful life patterns, are seeking personal growth, or wanting support in addressing a particular issue. 
 

How can therapy help me? A therapist is meant to enter your world with you and explore the parts of yourself that may be confusing, dark, or scary and help you make peace with those parts. From this process you can gain the insight and perspective needed to release yourself from the constraints preventing your growth. A therapist provides support, accountability, guidance, and compassion in a confidential space. Intimacy is fostered in a therapeutically professional and boundaried relationship, which allows for growth in ways personal relationships often cannot provide.
 

How do I start? Simply schedule an appointment which you can do using the convenient online client portal or by calling 832-570-4183 or by emailing sarahrossmiller@gmail.com. I look forward to getting rebellious with you!