FAQ
Keep in mind, my couples work goes for at least 60 min. I offer 1.5 and 2 hour-long sessions as well. We start with the one-hour session and decide together if longer is better for you. Couples are complex and need time to be heard and felt completely. No matter how long we meet, I suggest you plan a 15 min connection-time with your partner after a session. It might be a tea, a short stroll or time to hug. You may benefit from some time to switch gears from deep connection to put on your work-face before plunging back into your day.
What forms will I need to complete?
There are forms to sign that give me legal permission to see you to provide therapy. I also have a brief intake form to cover essential demographic information and to describe what you are looking for. For couples there is a connection survey.
What is a Good Faith Estimate?
A Good Faith Estimate is what gives you a clear understanding of what your therapy costs might be when you’re paying out of pocket. Any charges or fees are described in it so you won’t have surprises. Since there’s no way to know how many sessions you’ll need since it depends on each person’s unique goals in therapy and their progress towards them. My aim is to be clear and transparent in the Good Faith Estimate so you know what to expect financially.
What if I need to speak with my therapist after hours?
I’m not available after hours. Evenings and weekends are times when I am nurturing my own relationships. For non-emergency scheduling concerns, you can reach me via phone (text or call) at 978-219-7435 or email me at edith@wovenheart.co
If you need support after hours, please reach out to your local crisis center or hospital emergency center.
What if I’m in a crisis?
In Massachusetts the Behavioral Health Help Line (BHHL) is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. Anyone may contact the Help Line. Call toll-free or text 833-773-2445 for immediate help. For the national hotline, dial 9-8-8
And if you reach out to such services please message me or your individual therapist to let us know you have engaged emergency services.
Is therapy confidential?
Yes, confidentiality is a necessary foundation for our work together. Everything mentioned in our conversations is private, making an space of safety and trust. Your personal health information (PHI) can only be shared with your written consent. This is true for my work with individuals or couples. In the case of couples any information shared requires a separate release form from each adult if.
The only exceptions to confidentiality are:
1. Threat of serious harm to yourself or others (e.g., physical violence, suicide).
2. Suspected abuse or neglect of a child, dependent adult, or adult 65 years or older.
3. A court order.
4. A signed voluntary release from you AND your spouse.
5. During clinical consultation with other advanced professionals to ensure the best care for you.
What are the benefits & risks of couples therapy?
Engaging in Couples Therapy is a hopeful act; a step toward building a more emotionally connected relationship. My role is to support you through a process to:
1. Identify your relationship goals
2. Discover patterns that block emotional connection, and effective communication
3. Nurture the development of a secure and fulfilling bond
I have been delighted by the improved connection and reduced distress my clients have enjoyed through participating in Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy. The truth is that the outcomes, speed and extent of progress depend on their degree of willingness to change, the level of engagement of each partner, their trauma history, and the length of time the couple has endured in their distressing dynamic.
If you want to be set up for success, go to the “Resources” page (link).
What can I expect in therapy with you?
As with any mental health growth process, difficult emotions such as sadness, anxiety, or anger can arise. Initially the distress can increase. While this therapy is not intended to prevent all future distress, or couple-conflicts or backsliding, it can endow you with a map to follow to navigate disconnection more effectively and help you find your way back to yourself, or to each other’s hearts.
No warranty or guarantee can be made, neither explicit or implied, regarding the results of therapy.
To get oriented to what to expect in therapy, see “What to Expect” page (link).
Anything else I should know?
I recognize and respect the courage it takes to reach out for support to grow in the most personal and vulnerable parts of your life. I value your trust as you explore the possibility of working with me. Going to deep emotional places isn’t always comfortable or easy. Making an exploration of this website, you’re already showing how much you value your desire for growth and renewal. I’m honored to be part of this process and support you along the way.
Click here if you’re ready to connect.
What do you do in sessions?
With Individuals:
I’m following the Emotionally Focused Individual Therapy modality developed by Sue Johnson. I also use Internal Family Systems and EMDR as needed, being a certified EMDR therapist.
With Couples:
I’m certified in Sue Johnson’s Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy. Yes, sounds crazy but Sue Johnson observed hundreds of couples in conflict and observed what they actually DID when they moved from conflict to connection.
Therefore, what we do in session works because it’s based on what Real People did- that worked.
To get oriented to what to expect in therapy, see “What to Expect” page (link).
“Your trauma is part of your story, but it is not your final chapter.” — Unknown