I’m nervous about starting therapy. Is that normal?

It feels overwhelming to allow yourself to be vulnerable with a stranger. I always tell my clients that there is no such thing as TMI, “Too Much Information,” The more I know about your situation, the better we can work together to improve your circumstances. It can be hard to talk about feelings out loud; the fear around that can feel overwhelming.

Going to therapy, even when you are nervous, is not easy. It may take courage to take those steps. However, reading this shows you are already stepping in the right direction.

Therapy is a space where you can be yourself, come just as you are, and feel safe from judgment, including nervousness.

I’m committed to finding a way to care for your nervousness and ensure sessions are as comfortable as possible.

Are all sessions online?

A Restored You Counseling & Wellness Services is an online therapy practice in Ohio.  Before your session, you will receive a link to a secure portal for your session. All you need is a quiet, safe place with a stable internet connection.

What are the benefits of online therapy?

There are so many benefits! Most clients love that you do not have to travel for sessions – saving you time and money. Also, you can be cozy on your couch or in your own space (and even your pets are allowed!). 

Do you take insurance, and how does payment work?

I accept Anthem, United Health Care, CareSource, Cigna, Medicaid, Medicare, and Medical Mutual. I am in the process of adding more. Please inquire about your insurance coverage. You can also choose private pay. I charge $150 for the initial session and $130/session after.

How long are the sessions?

Sessions last about 60 minutes.

How often do we meet?

We typically meet weekly, and in some cases, bi-weekly.

What can I expect in the first session?

Overall, the first session is a structured assessment that helps me get to know you and the challenges that brought you into treatment. I’ll invite you to share more about yourself, and we can also talk about what’s worked or not worked for your mental health in the past.

Some questions that I like to ask during a first session include:

 What brought you to therapy?

 What’s present for you in your life right now?

 Have you gone to therapy before? How did that go?

You can ask me questions as well. You might be curious about my experience or how future sessions work.

The most important part of a first session is to notice how you feel during and after the session. Then, if you feel supported and at ease with me, we can discuss if you want to meet again.

Are you open and affirming for the LGBTQIA+ population?

Yes, I am. I work with individuals from all backgrounds and populations.

If I am out of the state of Ohio, can we still have a session?

Unfortunately, for state licensing requirements, no. You must be in Ohio for the duration of your online therapy session.

Does what we talk about in therapy remain confidential?

It can be concerning to feel like things you say or do in therapy could “get out.” So I want you to know that unless there is an imminent danger to yourself or someone else or there is a court order, what you say in sessions is confidential. Your privacy and trust are of utmost importance. So you can rest assured that you can talk about anything without fear of that information getting out. If you have specific questions about confidentiality, you can ask during your free phone consultation or anytime during our work together.

What if I don’t want to talk about something?

It’s normal if you don’t feel ready to share everything. It will always be up to you during our sessions whether you feel prepared to discuss something. It’s my job to give you space to start to work through the tough stuff slowly. Then, gradually and at a comfortable pace, you can share what you feel ready to share. 

Tell me if you are nervous about bringing something up, and we can discuss it. Anything present for you and anything you are going through. Bring that to the session, and we can explore it together.

I’m scared that if I open up, you will think I’m guilty.

If you open up to me, I will not think you are guilty but extremely brave and strong. Many of my clients have had the same fear (that people would think they are guilty). Through my life journey and working with clients, I know how ‘normal’ your experience is. 

Shame has no place here. Nothing you can say will cause me to judge you.

I know nobody’s perfect; we all struggle and have strengths and weaknesses. Whatever you’re going through, I provide a safe space where you can feel heard and supported without judgment.

How can I get started?

I’m here to talk during a free 15-minute phone consultation where you can speak to what’s bothering you, and we can decide together how I can help.

Email me today to get your free phone consultation at sonseray@arestoredyou.com

What if I need immediate help?

In case of an emergency, please call 911. For the suicide hotline, call 988 or crisis text line 741741.