Can I use insurance for my therapy?

Most insurance plans have a provision for individual therapy for the covered individual. Typically, that provision stipulates that there must be medical necessity, and your therapist has diagnostic discretion as to whether that condition is met. In some circumstances that provision allows for the insured party to be treated in conjunction with another party, which can justify couples therapy as an insured modality.

Do you prescribe medications?

Therapists at Samaritan do not prescribe medications. That authority belongs to certain categories of medical professions licensed for that function in the State of Washington. At Samaritan, you would likely be referred to your physician, psychiatrist, or advanced registered nurse practitioner.

How can I afford therapy?

If your insurance covers mental health therapy, your responsibility (beyond any deductible) is typically a co-pay or coinsurance that is payable at the time of each visit. If you are paying out of pocket, the cost of the visits is a standard amount, depending on the level of training of the therapist (master’s degree or doctorate).

In cases of financial need, Samaritan therapists can work with you to determine whether you qualify for a reduced fee on a sliding scale (based on estimated annual income).

How can I come to therapy and also keep my workday commitments?

Therapists at Samaritan keep a wide variety of office hours, so that you will need to discuss with your therapist the possibility of a fit with your off-work hours. Because the agency maintains over a dozen satellite offices, you might find that a nearby location will allow you to minimize time away from your job or household responsibilities.

How do I choose a therapist?

Therapists use skills and practices that have been validated through research, so there is an objective basis to the work of therapy. At the same time, there is a subjective, relational dimension to therapy, such that it is most effective when you feel rapport with the therapist.

At this website, you can use the search tool to filter the list of therapists by location and specialty, and then read through the profiles to look for a background and approach that suit your situation and invite your interest. A brief phone interview can further inform your process.

How long does therapy take?

The answer to this question depends on many factors, including the therapy approach, the goals of therapy, the severity of one’s issues, the frequency of sessions, and the motivation of the client(s).

How often should I expect to come to therapy?

The frequency of sessions with your therapist is a determination that you make collaboratively with the therapist. Considerations would include the presenting concerns, the therapist’s approach, as well as a range of other factors: scheduling availability, durations of sessions,finances, and the like.

I am Christian, but I worry that I will feel judged.

Samaritan therapists identify as Christians and will, where clients express a preference, offer a dimension of Christian spiritual integration in their treatment. Rest assured that this does not arise from a place of condemnation, as our reading of scripture places emphasis on the love and compassion demonstrated in the gospel of Jesus.

If I’m not Christian, is this still a good place to seek counseling?

Yes. All Samaritan Center therapists are state licensed and encourage you to decide whether spiritual integration is a preference in therapy. We believe that a holistic approach to treatment benefits from consideration of the spiritual as well as the biological, psychological, and social dimensions. We respect each client’s preference where it pertains to treatment.

Is therapy confidential?

The content of therapy is held in confidence at Samaritan Center. Information is shared outside the center with the client’s documented permission. Overriding considerations—about which the client would be informed—include subpoenas or the disclosure of specific behaviors (abuse of vulnerable persons) that trigger mandatory reporting.

What can I expect from beginning therapy?

At your first session, you begin a discussion of your needs and goals for therapy. In the process, you will need to complete intake forms and receive documents relating to agency/therapist terms of service, including safeguarding your healthcare information. You will have the chance to ask questions and express preferences so that you and your therapist have a mutual opportunity to assess the suitability of moving forward together.

What if I am not connecting well with my therapist?

The first few sessions can serve as an “onramp” to see whether a good working relationship develops between you and the therapist. You can then, without prejudice, bring up your concerns to see whether your therapist can adjust effectively. At any point, you can decide to discontinue. If you talk over your decision with your therapist, she or he can usually offer some referral suggestions, should you request them.

What is the low-fee clinic?

A few Samaritan Center sites have externs who provide counseling at a greatly reduced fee, under the oversight of a licensed supervisor.  Externs are granted an associates license by the state to practice with supervision; they are not eligible to bill your insurance. Clients might qualify for this service where their income falls below a certain level. The specific fee would be negotiated with your therapist.