What to Expect

I’ve never been to therapy. What’s the intake process like?

When you contact Prism, you can choose to inquire about a specific therapist or you can ask to be contacted by the first available therapist. Either way, you’ll be contacted by an administrative staff to confirm receipt of your inquiry and to update you on where you are in the queue.

Your assigned therapist will reach out to schedule your intake session. You also will receive a link to your AdvancedMD profile so you can upload your photo ID, insurance, and payment information – and so you can complete some initial intake paperwork that helps the therapist get to know you and what you’re looking for in therapy.

The first therapy session is different from others because it focuses on reviewing your rights as a Prism Integrated Health client and on laying out what you can expect from your therapist during session. You might review the paperwork you completed on line and discuss how you and your therapist can work together to set and achieve your therapy goals.

At the end of your first session, you discuss scheduling and set out some dates for future appointments.

That’s it! Welcome to therapy!

I’ve never talked to anyone. I’m used to handling things on my own. Aren’t people who go to therapy weak?

Not at all. People who ask for help know when they need it and have the courage to reach out. Everyone needs help now and then. In our work together, Prism practitioners help you explore and identify your strengths and how to implement them to reduce the influence of the problems you are facing.

What’s the difference between talking to you or my best friend or family?

The difference is between someone who can do something, and someone who has the training and experience to do that same thing professionally. A mental health professional can help you approach your situation in a new way– teach you new skills, gain different perspectives, listen to you without judgment or expectations, and help you listen to yourself. Furthermore, counseling is completely confidential. You won’t have to worry about others “knowing my business.” Lastly, if your situation provokes a great deal of negative emotion, and you’ve been confiding in a friend or family member, there is the risk that once you are feeling better you could start avoiding that person so you aren’t reminded of this difficult time in your life.

How does it work? What do I have to do in sessions?

Because each person has different issues and goals for counseling, it will be different depending on the individual. We tailor our therapeutic approaches to your specific needs.

How long does therapy take?

Unfortunately, this is impossible to answer. Everyone’s circumstances are unique, and the length of time counseling can take to support you in accomplishing your goals depends on your desire for personal development, your commitment, how much change happens in your environment during therapy, and the factors that are driving you to seek counseling in the first place.

I want to get the most out of therapy. What can I do to help?

We are so glad you are dedicated to getting the most out of your sessions. Your active participation and dedication will be crucial to your success. Simple things like being on time to session, silencing your phone, and minimizing other internet browser tabs will help you stay present and focused during session. If your therapist gives you a task to complete between sessions, try your best to work on it. Therapy is an investment in your health and well-being: the more you put in, the more you benefit.

Why shouldn’t I just take medication?

Medication can be effective, but it alone cannot solve all issues. Sometimes medication is needed in conjunction with counseling. Our work together is designed to explore and unpack the problems you are experiencing and to expand on your strengths that can help you accomplish your personal goals.

What is medication management?

Medication management is the practice of ensuring that you are taking the right medication, in the correct dose, to treat your condition. Prescribers also make sure your prescription is safe to take with other medications, vitamins, or supplements you may be taking.

Psychiatric medicines, including antidepressants, mood stabilizers, and anti-anxiety drugs, may take several weeks to act, and there is a risk for unwanted or intolerable side effects. The team at Prism works hard to understand your unique needs, collaborating with you to create treatment plan that serves you best.

How can medication help me with my symptoms?

Many psychiatric health issues stem from changes in brain chemistry and activity. Psychiatric medication helps to regulate your brain activity, which can alleviate your symptoms.

Medication is often a critical component of mental health care, and the Prism Integrated Health model  combines psychotherapy with medicine, lifestyle changes, mindfulness, and other therapeutic modalities.

When medication reduces your symptoms, you can better focus your energy and attention on therapy, social connections, improved relationships, purposeful work, creative pursuits, and other strategies of wellness to further improve your mental, physical, and emotional health.