408 782 IREM (/4736)
Accessible. Flexible. In-Home.
FAQ
I’ve compiled a list of the most frequent questions that I receive. It’s normal and encouraged to ask many questions when choosing to work with a licensed Psychotherapist. Here are some answers to the questions I receive the most. If you can’t find what you are looking for, please get in touch.
1. What is therapy? Should I go to therapy?
Are you feeling stuck or dissatisfied with the direction life has taken? Asking this question shows that you may be considering a desire to move things in a different direction. If you are looking to cope with your current situation, gain coping tools, and get emotional support, therapy may be right for you. It takes courage to face struggles and life’s challenges. If you’re wondering if therapy may be appropriate, please call for a free consult.
2. What does your license stand for? What is a MFT/LMFT?
LMFT or MFT is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. A common misconception is that MFTs sole focus is on couples and family counseling. This is an area I provide service in, however I am also able to provide counseling in multiple other areas such as life transitions, developing self-esteem, reduction of depressive symptoms, addiction & recovery. Please check the Services page to learn more about the services I offer.
3. Can I get a free consult?
Yes, this gives me an opportunity to learn about you and how I can best support you. You can call me at 408 782 4736, or email irem.choksy@gmail.com. I look forward to hearing from you.
4. If I attend therapy, does that mean something is wrong with me? What will people think?
Mental health stigma impacts thousands of people who may otherwise be receiving support. Mental health concerns are not a choice someone has made, and are like any other medical condition. I take confidentiality seriously. You get to disclose (or not) about your therapy with who you deem appropriate. There is nothing “wrong” with a person receiving mental health support, and there is also no pressure to disclose to anyone that you are getting mental health support. During our initial conversation, we will talk about confidentiality and HIPPA laws that protect your confidentiality.
5. How does online therapy work?
Therapy is not a quick or a "fix". It's a journey. I practice solution focused brief therapy and include mindfulness-based practice. Therapy requires patience and participation.
Online therapy accommodates a busy lifestyle, can be easily accessible, and takes the pressure off of scheduling and commuting. It can also be a relief for people who don't like waiting in lobbies, and enjoy the accessibility and ease of receiving treatment in their own environment.
During our initial session, we will talk about what brought you in for therapy and establish goals. After this meeting we will have a road-map of understanding the root cause and how we will reach the goals. I will help you by deepening your understanding of the issues you are facing, exploring strategies that can be used in the now to manage the stressors, and learning coping tools to use during and outside therapy.
6. How long are the sessions and how much do you charge?
Therapy sessions are 50 minutes long. Full payment is due before each session (on Venmo, Paypal or via bank transfer). On occasion, reduced fee is available. Please inquire by emailing me at irem.choksy@gmail.com
7. What about insurance?
I can provide you with a billing statement for insurance reimbursement for out of network counseling.
To use your medical insurance for reimbursement, you must be given a mental health diagnosis and that diagnosis becomes a part of your medical records. This compromises on confidentiality. When you submit a claim our sessions, your insurance company will know the following: your name, the diagnosis, and dates of our sessions.
8. Do you offer supervision for AMFTs and/or ASWs?
Yes, I offer support for AMFTs and ASWs who are on their path to getting licensed by the Board of Behavioral Sciences. Please email me at irem.choksy@gmail.com to explore this.
9. I heard you on the radio. How do I make suggestion/ask a question?
Thanks for tuning in! I am guest speaker on the local radio from time to time. It would be my pleasure to hear your suggestions and answer your questions. I can be reached at irem.choksy@gmail.com.
10. Do I need therapy? Can I get through this on my own?
Therapy is a commitment. It's an investment of energy and time. Just like physical fitness and building a healthy eating routine takes effort, so does investment in emotional wellbeing. It takes courage to seek support for the first time to making a change.
A trained therapist can help you through life transitions, developing a positive self-image, managing grief, and better your relationships. Therapy offers self-exploration that can provide long lasting benefits to your current and future emotional health.
If financial constraints prevent you from seeking help, please email me irem.choksy@gmail.com.
11. I am a guy and I am supposed to know how to deal with this at my age. What do I do?
Are you ready to take responsibility for your current and future emotional and relational wellbeing? In our society, men are expected to always be strong, not talk about their stressors and obstacles; they are supposed to know how to work through challenges on their own. There is nothing wrong with seeking support. There is everything wrong with the concept of “real men not asking for help”. Taking the first step to accessing support is one that shows insight and courage. There should be no shame or guilt with wanting to better your relational or emotional life. Per Mental Health America, there are over 6 million men affected by depression in the US. The National Institute of Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism estimates 62,000 deaths caused by alcohol related causes (compared to 26,000 for women).
Depression and suicide are the leading cause of death among men and yet men are less likely to seek support. If you are hesitant on where to start and have questions, feel free to email me at irem.choksy@gmail.com
12. Do you speak other languages? Can I get counseling in another language?
I am fluent in English, Gujarati, Hindi, Urdu, and Kutchi and can provide counseling in these languages. If you need help with finding someone who speaks your preferred language not listed here, I will do my best to connect you to a licensed therapist that speaks your preferred language.