Insight Counseling Group, LLC

Individual, Couples and Family Therapy

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some of the most frequently asked questions we receive about therapy and our processes in general. Give us a call if you don’t see an answer to your question (541-325-3339), or send an e-mail to natalie@insightcounselingbend.com. Any information you share is kept confidential.

Call Us:  (541) 325-3339

Will you give me advice or tell me what to do?

A good therapist doesn’t give advice or tell you what to do. Our popular media often projects some of the worst examples of therapy. Our therapists don’t give advice or tell you what to do in your life. Therapy is a safe place to share your thoughts, concerns, and ideas where you’re free from being judged or told what to do. Therapy is about talking, listening, and helping you discover your own insights. 

How do I find a good therapist?

Finding a good therapist is not always easy. No one therapist is a match for every client. You need to find a therapist who makes you feel at ease and free to share whatever is on your mind. Checking your therapist’s background (schooling, licensure, supervision, and so on) can help ensure you find a therapist who is a good fit for you. 

How often should I come to therapy?

We recommend weekly appointments, especially towards the beginning of therapy. Some clients prefer to come every other week, and some clients prefer twice a week. All of these options are fine. During your first appointment, we will talk about what works best for you. 

How long will it take before I feel better?

Therapy is a science, but it’s not an exact science. No timetable exists to predict how quickly you will see results. However, talking about your concerns is the fastest and most effective way to address them. Periodically, we will review your progress in therapy and determine any remaining challenges standing between you and your goals. 
  
Why does therapy cost so much?

Much like any other service –a visit to the doctor or a physical therapist– you’re hiring a qualified and trained professional to provide you a service. Please feel free to check around the central Oregon area. We work hard to keep our rates competitive to make therapy accessible to as many individuals and families as possible. We offer sliding scale option on a limited basis.   
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​How long are the sessions?

Regular therapy sessions are 50 or 80 minutes in length, depending on each client's needs. Family therapy and couples sessions are often scheduled for 80 minutes to allow adequate time for each individual to share their concerns and work toward mutually agreeable resolution. 

Will therapy be difficult or painful?

Therapy has both benefits and risks. Possible risks include the experience of uncomfortable feelings (such as sadness, guilt, anxiety, anger, frustration, loneliness, or helplessness) or the recall of unpleasant events in a client's life. Most individuals report that the benefits outweigh the potential risks: a reduction in feelings of distress, better relationships, better problem-solving and coping skills, and resolution of specific problems. Given the nature of therapy, it is difficult to predict what exactly will happen, but we are committed to making sure our clients are able to handle the risks and experience the benefits.  

Isn't therapy only for people with serious problems or mental illness?

Not at all. We believe all people can benefit from some form of therapy. When you’re sad, depressed, anxious or experiencing problems in relationships, it negatively affects many aspects of our lives, such as sleep, physical health and work productivity. Mental health has been long overlooked and misunderstood as only for “crazy” people. It is only now being understood and appreciated as a critical component for overall health. Consider this: virtually everyone has experienced some level of anxiety or depression. Being in therapy doesn’t mean that you’re crazy; it means that you’re smart.  

​What if I'm in crisis and need to speak to someone now?

Please call 9-1-1 or the Deschutes County Crisis hotline. The Deschutes County Crisis hotline is available 24 hours a day at (800) 875-7364.