Questions Before Starting Therapy?
We know reaching out for therapy can feel like a big step. Here are answers to some of the questions we hear most often. And if you don't see your questions here, just ask. We're happy to help.
What can I expect from my first therapy session?
Your first session is an opportunity for you and your therapist to get to know each other and talk about what’s bringing you to therapy. We’ll discuss what’s been going on, what you’d like help with, and what you hope to get out of therapy.
You don’t need to have everything figured out before you walk through the door. That’s what we’re here for.
I’ve never been to therapy before. What if I don’t know what to say?
That’s completely okay.
You don’t need to prepare a speech or know exactly what’s wrong. You can simply start with what’s been bothering you, what has changed, or what made you decide to reach out now. Your therapist will help guide the conversation.
How do I know which therapist is right for me?
Finding the right therapist matters. Our therapists have different personalities, experiences, specialties, and approaches.
We encourage you to read our therapist profiles and see who you naturally connect with. If you’re still unsure, reach out to us and we can help you determine who may be the best fit.
Do you offer in-person or telehealth therapy?
We offer both in-person and telehealth sessions.
Our office is located in Allentown, Pennsylvania, and our therapists offer telehealth services to clients in the states where they are licensed.
What ages do you work with?
Our therapists currently see clients ages 14 and older, although availability and specialties vary by therapist.
Do you offer individual, couples, and family therapy?
Yes. Valley Outlooks provides counseling for individuals, couples, and families depending on the therapist.
What types of concerns do you help with?
Our therapists work with a variety of concerns, including:
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Anxiety and excessive worry
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OCD and intrusive thoughts
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Depression
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Trauma and PTSD
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Relationship difficulties
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Family concerns
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Life transitions
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Grief and loss
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Stress and burnout
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Self-esteem
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And other challenges that can make life feel overwhelming
Our therapists have different specialties, so we can help connect you with someone whose experience fits your needs.
How often will I need to come to therapy?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer.
Some people benefit from weekly sessions, while others may eventually move to every other week or less frequently. Your therapist will work with you to determine a frequency that makes sense based on your goals, needs, and progress.
How long does therapy take?
Therapy isn’t necessarily a set number of sessions.
Some people come to therapy for a specific issue or life transition and feel ready to move on after a relatively short period of time. Others benefit from longer-term support.
Your therapist will work with you to ensure therapy stays useful and appropriate for you.
Do you accept insurance?
Yes. We currently accept:
Aetna
Capital Blue Cross
Cigna
Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield
UnitedHealthcare/Optum
Medicare
Independence Blue Cross
Allied Trade Services
We do not accept Medicaid at this time. We also offer private-pay/out-of-pocket options.
Because insurance coverage can vary by plan, we recommend contacting your insurance company to verify your behavioral health benefits and coverage before beginning therapy.
What if you don’t accept my insurance?
We don’t want insurance to be the only thing standing between you and getting help.
If we are out-of-network with your insurance, we offer out-of-pocket/private-pay options. Contact us and we’ll be happy to discuss rates and payment options with you.
Do you offer evening appointments?
Yes. We offer daytime and evening appointments, although availability varies by therapist.
Is therapy confidential?
Yes. Your privacy is extremely important to us.
There are legal and ethical limits to confidentiality in certain circumstances, which your therapist will explain during the intake process.
For telehealth appointments, we also encourage clients to choose a private location where they can speak freely.
What happens if I need to cancel my appointment?
We understand that life happens. If you need to cancel or reschedule, please provide at least 24 hours' notice. Appointments cancelled with less than 24 hours' notice or missed appointments may be subject to a $50 fee , which is stated in our policy that you will sign before your first appointment.
Can I choose my therapist?
Absolutely.
We encourage you to choose the therapist you feel most comfortable with. If you’re not sure who would be the best fit, contact us, and we’ll help you find the right person.
What if I start therapy and don’t feel like my therapist is the right fit?
That’s okay.
The relationship between therapist and client matters, and sometimes the first therapist you meet isn’t the right match. We encourage you to communicate with your therapist about your experience, and if another therapist at Valley Outlooks or elsewhere may be a better fit, we’re happy to help you explore that option.
Do you prescribe medication?
No. Our therapists provide psychotherapy and counseling services. We do not prescribe medication.
If medication may be beneficial, your therapist can discuss whether a referral to a psychiatric provider or primary care provider would make sense.
Do you provide emergency or crisis services?
Valley Outlooks is not an emergency or crisis service.
If you are experiencing an immediate mental health emergency or believe you may hurt yourself or someone else, call 911, go to the nearest emergency department, or call/text 988 for the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.
How do I get started?
You don’t need to know exactly what you need before reaching out.
Contact us and let us know that you’re interested in therapy. We’ll help you with the next steps and, when possible, connect you with a therapist who is a good fit for your needs.
Ready to take the first step?