Frequently Asked Questions

Counseling vs coaching? What’s the difference and how do I know what’s right for me?

Counseling, also referred to as therapy or psychotherapy focuses on mental health and emotional healing. Counselors are trained mental health professionals who possess a minimum of a Master’s Degree and are licensed in the state in which they provide services. Counselors can help you improve your life, and develop better cognitive and emotional skills, reduce symptoms of mental illness and cope with various challenges. Coaching focuses on setting and achieving personal and professional goals. A coach will help you identify obstacles standing in the way of accomplishing your goals as well as motivate and encourage you to achieve set goals. Coaching can be for individuals (Personal/Life Coaching) or for businesses (Corporate Coaching). Not sure which is best for you? Contact us today!

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

Each individual is unique and has different reasons for seeking counseling and coaching as well different goals and expected outcomes. Therefore, I individualize and customize my approach to meet your specific needs.

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

I am so glad you are dedicated to getting the most out of your sessions. Your active participation and dedication is crucial to your success. After all, we only see each other for a session a week. It’s the work you do outside of our sessions that will really help you see your personal growth and development.

How do online sessions work?

In terms of counseling, I offer Telehealth services to anyone residing in the state of Pennsylvania. I use a secure, HIPAA compliant live-video platform so that we can see and hear each other clearly. In terms of coaching, I provide a combination of video, text-messaging, and phone calls to make your experience more productive. Live-video is much like being in the same room together without the travel. It’s a win-win!

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, I’ll 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?

Having supportive family and friends is wonderful. However, a mental health professional can help you approach your situation in a new way, teach you new skills, and gain different perspectives. In addition, your therapist will listen to you without judgment or expectations and will help you better listen to yourself. Furthermore, counseling is confidential. You won’t have to worry about others “knowing my business” or “spreading 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 may start avoiding that person so you aren’t reminded of this difficult time in your life. Working with a mental health professional helps to reduce and even eliminate that risk.

Is therapy confidential?

Yes. In general, the law protects the confidentiality of all communications between a client and a therapist. Information is not disclosed without written permission. However, there are a few exceptions to this rule. Exceptions include: Suspected child abuse, dependent adult or or elder abuse. If a client intends to harm himself/herself, or if a client is threatening serious bodily harm to another person(s).

Why shouldn’t I just take medication?

Medication can be effective and at times necessary to manage symptoms, 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 expand on your strengths that can help you accomplish your personal goals.

How long will it take?

Unfortunately, this is not possible to say in a general FAQs page. Everyone’s circumstances are unique to them and the length of time counseling can take to allow you to accomplish your goals depends on your desire for personal development, your commitment, and the factors that are driving you to seek counseling in the first place.

How do I get more information on Mental Illness?

3E conducts a variety of Mental Health & Wellness Workshops designed to educate the public. Individuals and businesses are encouraged to contact us.

Do you accept insurance?

3E is currently in network with Highmark & Cigna. Depending on your current health insurance provider or employee benefit plan, it is possible for services to be covered in full or in part. Please contact your provider to verify how your plan compensates you for psychotherapy services.

How do i determine my benefits?

We recommend asking these questions to your insurance provider to help determine your benefits:

• Does my health insurance plan include mental health benefits?

• Do I have a deductible? If so, what is it and have I met it yet?

• Does my plan limit how many sessions per calendar year I can have? If so, what is the limit?

• Do I need written approval from my primary care physician in order for services to be covered?

What if you do not accept my insurance?

If you are out-of-network, 3E will provide clients with a Superbill to submit to your insurance provider for reimbursement. Please confirm with your health provider that you are eligible for reimbursement prior to making your appointment. We are not responsible if your insurance provider denies your claim.