When To Seek Therapy?

By Janice Viamontie, LCSW

Seeking therapy can feel intimidating and scary. You may feel as though you should be able to manage your own stressors and navigate life transitions on your own. However, there are times when things become overwhelming and managing life and all its tasks seem impossible. Many seek therapy for what some call textbook trauma, i.e. abuse, an accident, a loss, but these are not the only kinds of traumas that exist. If you are faced with a situation that you have been unable to cope with, that may be your trauma. My favorite statement is “everyone’s trauma is their own,” meaning what you may consider trauma may not be what I consider to be traumatic. You may also consider seeing a therapist because you need a space to express your emotions and understand why you may feel the way you do. Whatever your reason, therapy is not for the “crazy,” it is a confidential environment that allows self-expression and understanding. 

How to find a therapist

Finding a therapist you feel connected to and can build a relationship with can be difficult, especially if you have never been in therapy before. However, once you recognize the need for one, you will find the one that fits you. There are several directories available that can provide individual bios of therapist that have a variety of expertise. You can also contact your insurance company. They can provide you with a list of therapists in your area that accepts your insurance. It is also important to discuss your insurance coverage for mental and behavioral health; inquire about out-of-pocket expenses.

Everyone wants to find a “good” fit for themselves, but that may take some time. You may find your “fit” with the first person you meet or the third. When conducting your search, you can contact the therapist you are interested in and ask for a short 5-minute free consultation. Make sure to come prepared with your questions. Here are a few questions to consider: 

• How would you treat someone with depression or anxiety (include your symptoms). What evidence-based treatment modalities do you use? 
• What is the length of the sessions and how do you schedule the next appointment?
• Do you have experience helping others with my concern or situation?
• What is your go to form of treatment when working with clients?
• What will therapy sessions be like? Are they more structured with skilled training and homework? There are some that offer a more supportive setting and are flexible (more client-centered).

Ready for us to walk this journey with you? Visit our website at www.viamontiecounseling.com, email [email protected] or call at 302-307-6558. We accept most commercial insurances and Medicaid.

Bio

Janice Viamontie, Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) is the owner of Viamontie Counseling & Consulting Services, LLC, a mental health private practice located in Newark, Delaware. We offer online and in person sessions, depending on the therapist you are interested in working with. Our therapists provide individual, family, and couples therapy for everyone, ages 9 years old and up. 

During the process of creating my mental health practice, I thought about the space I wanted to provide. Not just the physical space, which I wanted to be warm and inviting, but an emotional safe space. I wanted my clients to feel that they are the expert in their own lives and as a therapist I was there to guide them to self-driven solutions, allow for deep and thoughtful processing, be their advocate, provide validation when needed, and help them get unstuck. As the practice expanded and it became more than just myself, I sought out therapist that would continue my vision, but bring their own special skills and ways of helping through various transitions. 

Testimonials

“I feel like she has been instrumental with my progress in terms of my mental health and holding me accountable when it comes to my actions and behaviors.” ~ K.M.

“I was nervous about starting therapy, but seeing a therapist has been the best decision I’ve made. I am learning to put me first and live my life my way.” ~ A.D. 

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