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Counseling FAQ
With
HarDarshan K. Khalsa, MA, LPC
What actually happens in a counseling session?
There
are many misconceptions regarding counseling and psychotherapy. One
concerns the stigma around mental illness. While counseling can
address serious issues such as depression, anxiety, and addiction,
it can also be used as a tool for growth and increased mental, emotional,
and spiritual health, as well as resolving relationship issues. Counseling
is ideally directed toward each individual's greater self-understanding
and well being. In your first session, we will discuss what your
goals are, and ways in which we might approach those goals. I am
here to listen to YOU and what you want to accomplish and to provide
neutral assistance. My approach is present centered rather than psychoanalytically
based.
Do you just listen or do you help direct the
counseling process?
Both! To truly understand
each individual, listening comes first. From there, depending on
what your goals are, I may
suggest "homework" that
can range from reading to meditation. Occasionally when it is appropriate,
we may use techniques in our sessions such as sandtray, art, aromatherapy
or flower remedies.
How
long is each counseling session?
Usually
between 1 and 2 hours. I find that sometimes 45 minutes to an hour
is just not long enough for the process, so I like to spend whatever
amount of time is needed. However, I find that longer than 2 hours
is too much. All sessions are $80, regardless of time spent.
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Do
you have any specialty areas?
I have worked for many years with individuals facing chronic and life threatening
illnesses such as Cancer and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. Having survived a life
threatening illness myself, I have experience and empathy for the unique challenges
faced by those who are ill, as well as their loved ones. I have worked as a hospital
chaplain since 2002, caring for patients and families in the processes of illness,
dying and death. I have been an ordained minister since 1993, and enjoy exploring
spiritual issues with clients. Stress reduction is also an area of interest for
me, as I have been teaching yoga and meditation for 22 years. In the past few
years, couples counseling has also been a focus of mine.
How
often will we meet?
This will depend on the acuity of your situation, your goals,
and your time and financial budget. Often clients will like to meet once every
week or two until
their goals have been reached, and then check in on an as needed basis. We can
discuss periodically what works best for you.
Are
you able to handle insurance reimbursement for clients?
Not currently.
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What
about confidentiality?
Our sessions are private, and information will not be communicated
to others without your informed written consent.
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