Question 1

Are the things we talk about going to stay confidential?

Accepted Answer

The short answer to this is yes, what we talk about will be kept confidential. This is one of the main reasons people talk to a counselor.  If you wanted to discuss things with the people of your life, you can do that but its not my place. In fact, there are laws that protect your confidentiality. However, the longer side of this does include some limitations to confidentiality. If harm can be prevented or if someone is in danger I have a legal obligation to report it.

The responsibility of reporting  mandates the reporting of suspected abuse or neglect of children, adults, and elders. Reports are to be made to child protection, and law enforcement based on the information provided by the client or collateral sources. Also if the therapist suspects the client is in danger of harming themselves or someone else. Apart from that, we will keep what we talk about between us. If you choose to disclose information or want me to, there are some forms we can fill out. These will be you giving me permission in writing. But it’s very rare this comes up.

Question 2

Do you take my insurance?

Accepted Answer

I am not currently an insurance provider. I do bill clients directly for services and in some cases may be considered “out-of-network.” A bill can be provided that includes the necessary information required by insurance companies. You can submit to the insurance companies and in some cases may qualify for reimbursement. To find out how much they will reimburse you, I recommend that you contact your company and ask them about the specific services you’re seeking. Such services as individual assessment, or individual psychotherapy. You may want to also ask about what percentage fees they will reimburse and if there’s any co-pays or deductibles, and if there is a maximum allowable coverage. Codes that are regularly used would include 90791 (initial diagnostic session) and 90837 (individual psychotherapy).

Question 3

I want counseling, but my spouse doesn’t counseling

Accepted Answer

It is possible that by attending relationship counseling on your own that you can make significant changes within yourself. These changes typically are beneficial to your relationship. Even if your spouse won’t come in for couples counseling, you can work on the part you play in the patterns and dynamics of your relationship and this will generally have a positive impact on how you function as a couple. You may even find that your spouse’s behavior changes as a result of the changes you have made.

Question 4

Do I NEED to use insurance to cover the expense of my counseling?

Accepted Answer

Many clients choose to self-pay for therapy for several reasons. Some do not wish the insurance companies to dictate the level of care, have any access to information regarding their mental health diagnosis or treatment. In order for a therapist to bill insurance companies for treatment, the client must be officially diagnosed with a mental disorder. Many, if not most, of my clients do not qualify for a mental illness or disorder. Managed care exists to manage your care. Some people may not feel comfortable with the possibility of multiple people working at an insurance company having access to personal information, or some may simply not wish to be labeled with a mental health disorder.  Some may be okay with a therapist giving a diagnosis, but wish that information to remain entirely confidential and that the information and the plan for treatment be between client and provider. Some simply feel that the process is very personal and do not wish to share any information regarding their mental health status, including that they are seeing a therapist with anyone other than their therapist or perhaps other trusted, known individuals. This is a personal choice.

Question 5

When Will I start to feel better?

Accepted Answer

This will be different from person to person, but usually people will feel some level of relief with their first session as they are finally starting to get the help they need.  Others may experience relief later in the therapeutic process as they start to make actual changes in their life.

Question 6

Is It Normal To Be Nervous About Contacting A Counselor?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Whatever you want to work on in counseling is obviously important to you otherwise you would not consider investing your time, energy, and money.

Many people worry about being judged or misunderstood. Others worry that the counselor will not be able to help in any meaningful way. Frequently people find that their nervousness subsides during the initial session as the therapist treats their concerns with seriousness, respect, and compassion.

Question 7

Will you prescribe medications?

Accepted Answer

No. I am not licensed to prescribe medications, however, if I feel that medication would be helpful for you I will work to with you to find a prescribing physician/psychiatrist to ensure your quality care.

Question 8

What are some ways Counseling can help you?

Accepted Answer

Counseling may assist you to:

​Make well-informed decisions regarding your career, relationships, and other important life choices.
Manage stressful situations or life transitions. Increase your capacity for intimacy
Mourn the loss of a loved one or a significant relationship
Resolve long standing emotional roadblocks
Foster awareness, compassion and forgiveness
Establish closer and more fulfilling relationships
Feel more capable in your studies or career
Overcome feelings of anxiety and depression
Experience greater pleasure in your day-to-day life
Make better use of your abilities
Gain greater freedom in your choices and actions

Question 9

If I'm ready to get started, or I have more Questions, What Do I Do Next?

Accepted Answer

If you think that you would like to work with me as your counselor, all you have to do is pick up the phone and call me or send me an email on my contact page. I’ll respond, we can talk about all of the other important parts of the process.

Question 10

What Kind of Therapy Do you do?

Accepted Answer

I work with strengths found within all individuals and their families, and use them to support successes in the therapy process.   I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Family Systems Theory, Brief Solution-Focused Therapy,  and Mindfulness to help my clients live healthy, satisfying, productive lives.

For clients who are comfortable including or exploring faith issues or how their faith affects their life and situation I used the Bible and pastoral care techniques for Spiritual Guidance.

CONTACT

Dr. Kevon Owen, LPC

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