FAQs

Q: I’ve never been in psychotherapy, how does it work?

A: Psychotherapy is a collaborative and active process on the part of the therapist and the client. Much of the work of therapy occurs outside of the sessions. Sessions provide an opportunity to learn, understand, process, and gain insight. Time between sessions provides you the opportunity to practice new skills and apply what you gain from the therapy sessions. My role is to guide you every step along the way.

Q: What should I expect at my initial appointment?

A: Your first appointment is primarily an evaluation. My goal is to understand your concerns, needs, symptoms, your expectations, and what brings you to therapy at this time. I will answer any questions you may have and we’ll establish a course of action.

Q: What is William’s approach?

A:  William Roderick, LCSW uses a person-centered, integrative, and empowering approach. Helping you to build upon your strengths, heal old wounds, and develop new skills to improve and maintain your wellness.

Q: How long are therapy sessions?

A: Standard sessions are about 45 to 50 minutes, depending upon insurance guidelines.

Q: How do I find out more and schedule an initial appointment?

A: Call me at 941-961-4745. I will answer any questions you may have and you can schedule at that time. You may also want to visit my CONTACT page.

Q: What if I don’t know exactly what needs to change so that I feel better?

A: This is very common. My job is to help you identify what needs to change and help you throughout your therapy to achieve your goals. Therapy is collaborative. It is a give and take relationship. You are not alone.

Q: Will my health insurance pay for psychotherapy?

A: Usually. I am a network provider for most insurance plans.
Visit my payment page to see what insurance I take.

Q: My health insurance plan has an Out Of Network option. Will I be able to see you?

A:  Yes in most cases. Also in general I will be able to submit claims directly to your insurance for you. Please call me to further discuss how this will work with your specific plan.

Q: How is Mindfulness used in therapy?

A: Mindfulness when used in therapy develops some very useful qualities of awareness. This particular kind of awareness allows you to deal more effectively with your concerns as well as improving the ability to make healthy and effective change.

Q: What is Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)?

A: EMDR is a form of therapy that uses eye movements or other “bi-lateral stimulation” during trauma processing. It is an integrative therapy that promotes adaptive information processing.

Q: Does Hypnotherapy really work?

A: Hypnotherapy  is not a magic solution although it may seem a little like magic at times because it can often get results quicker than with psychotherapy alone. Clinical hypnosis focuses attention on resolving problems similar to how a magnifying glass focuses sight to see clearer.

Q: What problems can hypnotherapy treat?

A: Hypnotherapy can help resolve many common problems. It can be used for much more than smoking cessation. 

Q: Is there a difference between psychotherapy and counseling?

A: Psychotherapy, therapy, mental health counseling, and counseling are frequently used interchangeably for practical purposes. The word counseling is a more generic term.  For example, there are also pastoral counselors, marriage counselors, educational counselors, rehabilitation counselors.

Q: How is my privacy and confidentiality protected?

A: The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) states requirements for confidentiality, privacy, and safeguarding and release of medical records. Guiding Change Psychotherapy meets all HIPAA, federal, and state law requirements as well as following the National Association of Social Workers’ privacy guidelines and our office policies. Visit our Privacy page and read our Privacy Policy for more information.

Q: Can I benefit from psychotherapy if I’m already taking medication for my mental health problem?

A: Yes. Evidence shows that psychotherapy with medication is generally more effective than medication alone for most mental health problems. Consult with your prescribing medical doctor when unsure and for specific recommendations regarding your condition . Please note that Guiding Change Psychotherapy does not prescribe medication.