Questions About Counseling
Is everything I say confidential?
All of your information is kept strictly private. However, there are specific circumstances that our therapist are ethically and legally required to report: (1) if there is reason to suspect you are a danger to yourself, (2) if there is reason to suspect you may carry out threats to harm another individual, and (3) if there is reason to suspect that a child, elder, or disabled individual is being harmed. Under Wisconsin law, therapists are mandated reporters and must contact the police or Department of Child & Family Services if any of these circumstances arise. Additionally, in some legal situations a judge may override our efforts to protect your privacy.
How will I know if Restorative Services is the right place for me?
The only way to know for sure is to come in for a session. Most people have a good sense of whether we are the right professional counseling to help them, within the first two sessions. We have tried to provide you with information on this website about our services and our values as a supportive community organization. Reading through our site will give you a sense of who we are. Feel free to contact us directly and we will be happy to speak with you about how we can help.
Who do you work with?
We provide counseling for individual adults, young people and families. Our supportive services span every level of need. Call us for more information about how we can help you.
What can I expect from therapy?
Once you have decided to see a therapist, you still might be apprehensive about the process. Many people feel nervous before the first appointment. Therapy is a shared journey; a shared process. And, although we will travel together in the process, it is ultimately your journey and you will make your own decisions. We do not have answers for all your concerns, but we do have the ability to listen carefully and will ask thoughtful questions. Your answers to these questions will help shape the direction of our work together. You can expect to be respected. You can expect that you will be offered opinions and suggestions from time to time, but you will not be told what to do.
What happens during the first session?
The initial session is the time for you to start to share your story, to talk about your goals and what you would like to change. Another important aspect of the first session is deciding if we are a good fit. We are establishing a relationship that will become the foundation for working together. You will begin to figure out some goals; our job will be to begin to figure out how to help you get there.
How long do appointments last?
Session appointments are 45-50 minutes. This is the standard length of a counseling session. We do offer 75-minute couples or family sessions. A longer session can be useful when dealing with the complexities of couples and families. An increased fee is necessary for longer sessions.
How often will we meet?
To begin, you will attend a session once a week. It’s important to gain some momentum in the beginning by meeting weekly or progress can stall out. Once some or all your goals are met, meeting less often will make sense.
How much do you charge?
Payment will be collected at the time of service. Please see our Fee Schedule page for more information.
Do you accept insurance?
We are not a participating provider with any health insurance plans. Our services are kept at a price point that most clients can afford. Our mission is to support those in need. We will collect payment from you at the time of service. Please review our Fee Schedule page for more information about why we do not accept insurance.
What is your cancellation policy?
We require a 24-hour advance notice of cancellation or you will need to pay for the appointment. An occasional exception may be made in the case of an emergency. It’s important that we meet consistently in order to make progress.
What theoretical approach do you use?
Our therapists pull from a variety of theories and techniques, including: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Positive Psychology, Motivational Interviewing, Client-Centered Therapy, and Mindfulness techniques – all, often helpful for our clients.
Do you prescribe medication?
No, we are not medical practitioners. Many of our clients find medication is helpful, but many of them also progress well in therapy without medication. If you want to be evaluated for psychiatric medication, either contact your primary care physician or a psychiatrist. If you are already taking medication, we can coordinate care with your doctor.
Are there any issues or types of client that you DON’T work with?
We do not conduct child custody evaluations, nor do we provide custody recommendations. We do not provide psychiatric assessments; however, we can perform a mental health evaluation and review. Please contact us for more information.