What is an MFT?The term "MFT" stands for Marriage and Family Therapist and is the official terminology used by the State of California.A Marriage and Family Therapist is a mental health professional who is trained in psychotherapy and family systems, and licensed to diagnose and treat mental and emotional disorders within the context of marriage, couples and family systems. An MFT also evaluates and treats mental and emotional disorders, other health and behavioral problems, and addresses a wide array of relationship issues within the context of the family system. An MFT takes a holistic perspective to health care and is concerned with the overall, long-term well-being of individuals and their families. In short, an MFT is a relationship specialist who treats persons in interpersonal relationships. What agency licenses MFT in California?Marriage and Family Therapists are regulated and licensed by the California Board of Behavioral Sciences. Requirements for licensure include a related doctoral or two-year master’s degree. After graduation from an accredited program, an internship of at least two years of post-degree supervised clinical experience is required before licensure or certification. When the internship is completed – which includes 3,000 supervised hours of clinical experience as an MFT – the passage of two comprehensive written exams is also required.What if I am not married or I want individual therapy?Of course, a Marriage and Family Therapist also provides therapy for individuals as well as couples and families.What about privacy?All of your conversations with me are completely confidential (except where mandated otherwise by law, as in the case of child abuse or eminent danger to yourself or others).How does counseling work?First, an individual, couple, or family decides that they want counseling. Here are just some of the situations and feelings that bring people to therapy:
Why see a Marriage and Family Therapist?According to the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapists, research studies repeatedly demonstrate the effectiveness of Marriage and Family Therapy in treating the full range of mental and emotional disorders and health problems. Adolescent drug abuse, depression, alcoholism – as well as marital distress and conflict – are just some of the conditions that today's MFT can effectively treat. Studies also show that clients are highly satisfied with the services of Marriage and Family Therapists. As noted by the AAMFT, clients report marked improvement in work productivity, family relationships, co-worker relationships, emotional health, overall health, social life and community involvement. In fact, a recent study found that Marriage and Family Therapists are the mental health professionals that clients are mostly likely to recommend to friends. And that's probably because an unbelievable 98 percent of clients of Marriage and Family Therapists rate the therapy services they've received as "good" or "excellent." (See the FAQ at www.aamft.org for more statistical information.)How do I know I need therapy?It's hard to know, because there are no clear answers. If your life is somehow less than you expect – for instance, you often have a sense that you are not living up to your full potential, or you have somehow missed out on something in your life – then you might want to make an appointment and explore these feelings and questions. For example, if you feel depressed or anxious, that indicates that something is wrong, and it would be important to look into those feelings and find out their root causes.
How often should I come to therapy?For therapy to be effective, weekly sessions are recommended. Most of my clients attend weekly, which is usually my initial recommendation. Having weekly sessions helps to build the relationship and get some therapeutic momentum rolling. However, this is not mandatory, and we can make this decision together during our first meeting. Factors that might be considered include scheduling problems, financial concerns, and the therapeutic intensity desired.
How long will I need to be in therapy?This is completely up to you! Some people come to therapy with a very specific focus and goal in mind, and once reached, feel done. Others wish to enter into a more long-term therapeutic relationships focusing on long-standing problems such as resolving childhood issues, relationships issues, etc. I have some clients who come just for one session, and others with whom I have worked for two years or longer. When a client feels that their goals are met, therapy stops; there is no right or wrong length of therapy.
How long is a counseling session and how much does it cost?My fee structure is as follows:
How many counseling sessions will I need?The number of session depends on several factors, including but not limited to the goals of therapy, the severity of the issues encountered, and of course, the client's willingness to actively participate.
What if I have to cancel my counseling session?There is no charge for any session cancelled 24 or more hours prior to the scheduled appointment. If you do not show up for your scheduled appointment – and you have not notified me at least 24 hours in advance – you will be required to pay the full cost of the session.
Can I use my insurance and will my insurance company pay for counseling?I do not take insurance in my private practice, but I can provide you with a receipt for each session so that you can seek reimbursement from your insurance company. However, it's important to first check with your insurance company that the type of counseling you'd like is covered, and to find out what portion of your counseling they will reimburse. Finally, please know that reimbursement is your responsibility, and that it will be handled only between you and your insurance company.
What types of payment do you accept?I accept cash or check. However, paying by one of the major credit cards is possible, so please ask me about this on the phone.
When is payment due?Payment is expected at the time of service, just before each session begins.
Where is your office:My main office is currently in Sherman Oaks, however I can also meet with you in Pasadena. Click here for maps and directions.
How do I start counseling?Simply contact me to schedule a session at our mutual convenience.You can either call at (626) 433-3051 or Email me at Info@Jouslinesavra.com. I have flexible hours, including Saturdays and weeknights. MAPS (Click on maps for directions) Main Office - Sherman Oaks: 15235 Burbank Blvd., Suite A4, Sherman Oaks, CA 91411:
|