There are so many! Some seek therapy as a means to manage ongoing mental illness. However, you do not have to have a diagnosis to benefit from therapy! You can learn healthier ways of handling stress, understand what ignites your anxiety, improve your self-esteem, and have more fulfilling relationships, just as a few examples. Specific life changes or events can also spark entering therapy. Examples could be the death of someone close to you, changing jobs, moving to a new area, ending a relationship, or assuming a new role at work or in your household (entering parenthood, becoming a caregiver to an aging parent or chronically ill partner). While friends and family can be helpful supports, having a more neutral person to process with can remind you of your own needs and allow for accountability.

The relationship between you and your therapist is often the most important factor in success. Although it takes time to develop deeper trust, having a sense of comfort from the beginning is helpful. If you reach out via phone, email, or the contact tab here on the website, we will arrange a time for a free 15 minute consultation so that you will have a chance to share a little bit about what you're hoping to work on and we can get a sense of personalities as well.

At this time, Stream provides exclusively online therapy sessions. This allows for you to participate from anywhere in the state of Pennsylvania. If you are looking for in person sessions, reach out and we can try to connect you to some therapists in your local area.

The therapy process is very individualized, and length of time is very dependent upon various factors, including how often you choose to meet with your therapist. It is generally recommended to start with weekly sessions to help get momentum, to have consistent accountability, and to build connection with your therapist most easily. Some people are in therapy for just a few months, while others benefit from 6-12 months, or even ongoing. It is hopeful that sessions will build upon each other, bringing you closer to your goals. Some sessions will be focused on learning new coping skills and how to put them into practice. Some sessions will simply involve open discussion or times for venting, with the intention of listening and problem solving. Sometimes you may be given "homework" to achieve smaller goals on your own or write things down in a journal. Because therapy often brings up difficult conversations, memories, and realizations, it is normal to feel worse before feeling better. It is important to talk with your therapist about your experiences and to utilize the coping and supports that are discussed.

Insurance companies require a diagnosis in order to cover the costs of sessions. Therapy is often desired for growth, self-reflection, general support, or a safe venting space and should not depend on a label. Your care can be tailored directly to what you need, whether for a season or for a longer term. If you are looking for a diagnosis, one can be provided, and self-pay allows for the highest degree of confidentiality. Your information and care history will only be shared with the people you select. Your care also won't be dictated by constraints that many insurance companies have including session limits, determining medical necessity, frequency of sessions, etc. Zencare has a more thorough explanation here that can help you feel more informed.

You must have internet access and be able to use a desktop computer, laptop, tablet, or smartphone. Intake paperwork is completed directly online (no printing required) with electronic signatures. Sessions occur on a secure video platform; a link will be emailed to you before each session.