Frequently Asked Questions
Have questions? We’ve got answers! This FAQ section is here to help you find the information you need about our services and support.
If you are having a mental health crisis please go to the nearest Emergency Room or reach out to the resources in the following documents:
How do I get started with therapy and supportive services?
Reach out to our Client Coordinator, Ariel, for provider matching. You can even explore our Providers page to find some therapists who may be a good fit.
How long do sessions typically last?
Most sessions typically last between 45 to 53 minutes, with some sessions extending up to 90 minutes or more if there is a specialized trauma treatment protocol being used or is a relational or group session.
What should I expect at the first session?
During your first session (or the intake session), you’ll have a chance to discuss the policies and client rights outlined in your initial paperwork, ask questions about Edges Wellness and your therapist, and share any concerns. This is also an opportunity to talk about yourself and what you’re hoping to gain from therapy.
Do I need to do anything before or between sessions?
Before your first session, you’ll need to complete some initial paperwork. If you have any questions about it, don’t hesitate to ask your therapist. Once therapy begins, your therapist may occasionally offer homework to support progress between sessions and encourage growth outside the therapy room.
How long will I need to keep coming to therapy?
The length of therapy varies depending on what you’d like to work on, how many issues you hope to address, how often you attend sessions, your level of engagement, and your overall commitment to the process. You can choose to end therapy at any time if it no longer feels helpful. Likewise, a therapist may recommend ending therapy and refer you elsewhere if they believe it’s in your best interest. On the other hand, many clients choose to continue therapy even after reaching their initial goals as an ongoing source of support—this is known as “maintenance.”
How do I know therapy is working? What if I’m feeling worse?
Therapy can be a powerful source of healing, but the process isn’t always linear. At times, it might feel like you’re moving backward, even while making overall progress. Some approaches may even bring up difficult emotions or memories before things begin to improve. If you ever feel concerned about how therapy is going or are experiencing discomfort that feels beyond the typical challenges of growth, talk with your therapist. Together, you can assess your progress and adjust as needed.
What if something urgent comes up and it can’t wait until my next session?
Life can bring unexpected challenges, and sometimes waiting for your next session may feel difficult. If you need to meet sooner, you’re welcome to reach out to your therapist to check for earlier availability. However, due to other clients and commitments, an earlier session may not always be possible.
If you’re in crisis or need immediate support, do not contact your therapist. Instead, reach out to emergency resources such as:
Is my privacy and confidentiality completely protected?
Mental health providers are legally required to protect your confidentiality, but there are specific exceptions.
These exceptions relate to the therapist’s role as a mandated reporter. Information may be disclosed if:
There is a risk of serious harm to yourself or others
There is known or suspected abuse of a minor or vulnerable adult
A valid court order or subpoena is issued
You choose to use a third-party payer (like insurance), which may require access to certain information such as diagnoses or session notes for billing or authorization purposes
Your therapist will always aim to discuss these situations with you when possible, unless doing so would compromise safety.
What do the letters after a therapist’s name mean?
What the Initials Behind a Therapist’s Name Mean
The initials after a therapist’s name indicate their degree and professional license.
🎓 Degrees
PsyD, EdD, PhD – Doctoral degrees in psychology, education, or philosophy
MD – Medical Doctor (typically a psychiatrist)
MA or MS – Master’s degree (Master of Arts or Master of Science)
🧾 Licenses
LP – Licensed Psychologist
LPC – Licensed Professional Counselor
LPCC – Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor
LICSW – Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker
LCSW – Licensed Clinical Social Worker
LMFT – Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist
LAMFT / MFT-IT – Licensed Associate Marriage and Family Therapist (MN) / Marriage and Family Therapist-In Training (WI)
✨ Specialized Certifications
SEP – Somatic Experiencing Practitioner
CST – Certified Sex Therapist
What is the difference between various licenses and credentials?
Understanding Licenses and Credentials
A therapist’s license reflects their professional training and the framework they use in practice. For example, licenses like LAMFT or MFT-IT indicate that the therapist is pre-licensed—they are approved by the state to practice under supervision while working toward full licensure through additional clinical hours and requirements.
License types vary by field, such as social work, clinical counseling, or marriage and family therapy. These differences reflect each field’s unique training approach and perspective on mental health and relationships. For instance, family therapists (e.g., LAMFTs, LMFTs, MFT-ITs) receive specialized training to work with couples and families and must complete at least half of their clinical hours with relational systems.
In addition to licensure, some therapists pursue specialized certifications—such as Somatic Experiencing Practitioner (SEP) or Certified Sex Therapist (CST)—to deepen their expertise in specific areas.
What does it mean if my therapist is a practicum student?
A practicum student is an advanced graduate student in a Master’s or Doctoral clinical program who is completing part of their training under supervision. They are supervised both by their academic program and by licensed professionals at their practicum site as they work toward their degree.
How do I know my therapist is the right fit for me?
Some questions to keep in mind during and after your consultation or intake session:
Do I feel heard?
Were they able to answer my questions?
Do I feel comfortable enough with this person?
“Do I like this person?” Why or why not? Would I be able to discuss this with them?
How do payments work at Edges Wellness?
Like at most other group private practices, your therapist at Edges Wellness isn’t paid until insurance and client payments come through. Timely payment helps us make sure your provider gets compensated for their work without delay.
Please pay for your portion of your session at the time of service. If this ever becomes a challenge, please immediately discuss with your therapist so that a structured plan can be created and carried out before your unpaid balance becomes unmanageable.