FAQ's

People come into therapy for many reasons. Some need to respond to unexpected changes in their lives, while others seek self-exploration and personal growth. When coping skills are overwhelmed by guilt, doubt, anxiety, or despair, therapy can help. Therapy can provide support, problem-solving skills, and enhanced coping for issues such as depression, anxiety, lack of confidence, relationship troubles, unresolved childhood issues, bereavement, spiritual conflicts, stress management, body image issues, and creative blocks. People seeking psychotherapy are willing to take responsibility for their actions, work towards self-change and create greater awareness in their lives.

The beginning stage of therapy looks at understanding where you may be “stuck” in life. Developing goals for healing, i.e. direction, awareness, connection with another, skills, more ease in life, etc. and a plan or “road map” by which you could use for you to meet those goals would be the next step.

Kevin’s approach is that of the utmost respect for the individual, couple or family. A holistic approach is always used. Without judgment, he will respect where you are coming from, and give you ideas in order to meet your goals. However, you won’t find him passively sitting back, nodding his head, letting you do all the talking. He is actively engaged in your process of healing and growth.

The frequency with which you will meet will be determined/based on your situation. Some people who are in crisis or extreme distress need to meet several times a month at least until the crisis passes. During the time between sessions, it is beneficial to think about and practice what was discussed. At times, you may be asked to take certain actions outside of the therapy sessions (homework), such as reading a relevant book or keeping records. For therapy to “work,” you must be an active participant, both in and outside of the therapy sessions.

Several people have had bad experiences in meeting with therapists. The media has portrayed those in therapy as weak and inept. Many people, men in particular, have the notion that getting helps “prove” they are incompetent as a man, and that the process would be too painfully emotional and worthless.

Emotions are sign posts, if you will, indicating where one is internally. But this notion of a syrupy light endeavor couldn’t be further from the truth. Kevin often points out that reaching out for help is masculine and courageous. It takes guts to go after what one needs. Yes, there is much room for expressing anger or any other emotion. But they are looked at as tools to make decisions and bring growth to one’s life.

A number of benefits are available from participating in psychotherapy. Often it is helpful just to know that someone understands. Therapy can provide a fresh perspective on a difficult problem or point you in the direction of a solution. Many people find therapy to be a tremendous asset to managing personal growth, interpersonal relationships, family concerns, and the hassles of daily life. The benefits you obtain from therapy depend on how well you use the process and put into practice what you learn.

Some of the benefits available from therapy include:

• Attaining a better understanding of yourself and your personal goals and values
• Developing skills for improving your relationships
• Finding resolution to the issues or concerns that led you to seek therapy
• Find new ways to cope with stress and anxiety
• Managing anger, depression, and other emotional pressures
• Improving communication skills – learn how to listen to others, and have others listen to you
• Getting “unstuck” from unhealthy patterns – breaking old behaviors and develop new ones
• Discovering new ways to solve problems
• Improving your self-esteem and boosting self-confidence

Yes and No. The “yes” is that, if desired, you will receive a receipt at the time of payment, indicating all the needed codings and information. If you have a PPO, you can submit this to your insurance company for reimbursement toward “out-of-network” services.

The “no” is that Kevin strongly believes that you should be in control of your therapy. Therefore, he has chosen not to participate on insurance panels, as many companies mandate certain limits and criteria for therapy services.

There is a confusing array of insurance arrangements. The first thing you should do is check with your insurance carrier. Often the contact information is on your card. Below are some suggested questions you may wish to ask:

Do I have mental health benefits?

What is my deductible and has it been met?

How many sessions per calendar year does my plan cover?

How much do you pay for an out-of-net provider?

Is there a limitation on how much you will pay per session?

Is primary care physician referral required?

Are authorizations required for visits?

If different, what is my mental health deductible?

In general, the law protects the confidentiality of all communications between a client and a psychotherapist. Information is not disclosed without written permission; however, there are number of exceptions to this rule. Exceptions include:

1. If there are reports/suspected child abuse or dependant adult or elder abuse (The therapist is a mandated reported and thus required by law to report this to the appropriate authorities immediately).

2. If a client is threatening serious bodily harm to himself or another person/s. The therapist must notify the police and inform the intended victim.

3. If a court of law issues a subpoena for therapy records. Evaluations and/or reports are also included as mandated without written permission.

Another situation involving confidentiality is between spouses. Without prior permission, it is the policy of Kevin Barwick to not give clinical information to any spouse that may call. It is of paramount importance that each client feels respected and safe, with no threat of compromising information leaking out to a loved one.

Simply call Kevin at 301-552-6688. If you leave a message, he will call you back as soon as possible, but certainly within 24 hours. Although there is more flexibility during the day, there are some evening appointments available. Appointments days are Monday through Friday.