Frequently Asked Questions
Is psychotherapy confidential?
• In the State of California, all information between therapist and client is strictly confidential.
• Confidentiality may be breached if you authorize in writing the release of information so that your therapist may speak to another professional about your case.
• If a client presents a physical danger to self or others, or if child, dependent or elder abuse is suspected, we are required by law to inform potential victims and the appropriate legal authorities so that protective measures may be taken.
• California Marriage and Family Therapists are mandated to comply with state and federal court orders for client records.
• As licensed psychotherapists and interns; we are mandated to comply with the U.S. Government regulations concerning the protection of medical information as specified in the Health Insurance Providers Accountability Act (HIPAA). Accordingly, you will be asked to sign HIPAA Confidentiality statement and given a copy of it.
How long will I be in therapy? How long does therapy take?
The length of therapy depends on a number of factors. Regularly scheduled weekly sessions work best for most people. Sometimes, clients need to come in twice weekly, especially if they are in crisis. As therapy winds down, clients and therapists may decide to meet every other week.
Some presenting difficulties can be quickly resolved in six to ten sessions. Some types of personal growth require a long term, open-ended therapeutic relationship. Some people prefer to spend a few months in therapy, resolve the presenting issue and return at a later date for a “tune-up”.
More serious issues, e.g. depression or trauma recovery may require much longer treatment. Couples therapy seems to require six months or more for a troubled couple to resolve their issues. Family sessions may be spread over several months.
Does somatic/body-centered therapy include “touching”?
Somatic psychotherapy may involve the use of touch, but only with your written and verbal permission. Our policy is to describe what the use of touch may involve, for example, holding a hand, and ask for permission at that specific moment. We will always respect your refusal
We do not allow any sexual or inappropriate physical touch. Clinicians and clients are required to be fully-clothed at all times.
What is a Marriage and Family Therapy Intern?
The interns at SF Psychotherapy Associates are chosen for their psychotherapy skills, experience and compassion. They have usually had previous experience working with clients and are in the process of finalizing their clinical hours necessary for state licensure.
Marriage and Family Therapist Interns must have completed an accredited Master’s level Psychology program. In addition, the California State Board of Behavioral Science requires all interns working toward a Marriage and Family Therapy license to complete a minimum of 3,000 hours of experience in a variety of clinical categories in order to qualify to take the licensing exams. Should you have further questions or concerns about MFT Interns, please feel free to speak with your therapist or contact:
The California Association of Marriage and Family (www.camft.org)
The California Board of Behavioral Sciences (www.bbs.ca.gov)
How long is a therapy session?
A typical therapy session is 50 minutes. Occasionally, therapists and clients will agree upon an extended session length to address a particular individual situation or for couple or family work.
What is the fee for therapy?
Fees for therapy sessions are discussed and agreed upon by the therapist and client prior to the first session. Fees are due at each session, unless otherwise arranged. Please write out your check before the beginning of your hour and give it to your therapist at the beginning of the session. This will better allow you utilize the hour. Please note that you will be charged the bank fee if any checks bounce.
Fees vary according to your therapist’s level of experience and whether he or she is licensed by the state of California’s Board of Behavioral Sciences. Pre-licensed, registered interns typically offer a range of relatively moderate fees.
Insurance
Our cancellation policy
Our cancellation policy is as follows: a minimum of 24 hours’ advance notice of cancellation of your appointment is required. Several days or a week is requested. Full fee will be charged for missed appointments without the minimum of 24 hours’ notice, unless the appointment can be filled. Cancellation must be made by telephone.