Karin Sponholz, M.S.W., Ph.D.
Tel: 650-704-0709
Is psychotherapy right for me?
People seek therapy for a number of reasons and often times at the point when problems start to interfere with work, home, or other important areas of life. Others may seek therapy to pursue their own personal exploration and growth. Regardless of the reason, it is an individual choice. Working with a therapist can help provide insight, support, and new strategies for all types of life challenges whether these include long-standing psychological issues, conflict, general life transitions, grief, body-image issues, depression, anxiety, and/or stress. Therapy is right for anyone who is interested in gaining more self-awareness and working towards change in their lives.
What is an initial intake?
In general, this is a 45 minute "interview" with the purpose of gathering the following information: demographics; information related to the concern being presented; current functioning; relevant historical facts; and relevant family history. This is also the time for you to ask me any questions about treatment and to express any of your concerns regarding psychotherapy.
What is your approach to therapy?
Trained primarily in psychodynamic and Jungian theory, I work from an integrated framework that incorporates interpersonal and cognitive behavior theories. I will also incorporate dream work, if so desired.
Do you accept insurance?
I am an out-of-network provider, which means that I am currently not on any insurance panels. However, I will provide you with a "superbill" at the end of the month that you can submit to your insurance company for direct reimbursement. Services may be covered in full or in part by your health insurance or employee benefit plan. I strongly recommend that you first check with your insurance carrier about coverage. You may find it helpful to ask the following questions:
- What are my mental health benefits?
- What is the coverage amount per therapy session?
- How many therapy sessions does my plan cover?
- How much does my insurance pay for an out-of-network provider?
- Is approval required from my primary care physician?
Is this confidential?
All information disclosed within psychotherapy sessions and all written records pertaining to psychological treatment and/or assessment are considered confidential. This means that verbal information and client records cannot be shared with another party without the written consent of the client or the client's legal guardian. Under several specific legal conditions, however, disclosure of confidential information is required or permitted by law. All psychologists and other licensed mental health professionals in the State of California are required to disclose confidential information if:
- You are in imminent danger to yourself or others
- Disclosure or suspicion of child, dependent or elder abuse or neglect
What if I am interested in being evaluated or to be prescribed medication?
In some cases a combination of medication and therapy is the right course of action. Though I do not prescribe medication, I will gladly work with you in either finding a psychiatrist or collaborate with the psychiatrist or physician you are already connected with. No information will be disclosed without prior written permission from you (see "authorization" form on services page)
Frequently Asked Questions
