Starting therapy can feel like standing at the edge of something unknown—exciting, yes, but also uncertain. Maybe you’ve been carrying stress like a backpack full of bricks, or you’re navigating relationship strain, or you’ve hit that invisible wall of burnout. Whatever brings you here, one thing is clear: you’re curious, maybe even ready for a change.
As someone who has spent years walking alongside people on their healing journeys, I can tell you this: asking questions before you start therapy is not only normal—it’s wise. It means you’re thoughtful about your emotional well-being, and you’re seeking something more than surface-level solutions.
Here are the top 7 questions people ask before starting therapy—along with clear, compassionate answers to help you feel informed and empowered.
1. What Happens in a Typical Therapy Session?
Therapy is not about being “fixed” or judged. It’s about showing up as you are, with whatever you’re carrying. Most sessions are around 45–60 minutes and begin with your therapist getting to know you—your story, your goals, and what brought you in.
As sessions unfold, you may:
- Explore thoughts and emotions
- Identify patterns or behaviors
- Learn tools to manage stress and emotions
- Strengthen relationships
From my experience, the most transformative sessions often come not from dramatic breakthroughs, but from small, steady moments of insight. And remember, it’s okay to go at your own pace.
2. How Do I Know If a Therapist Is the Right Fit?
The fit between you and your therapist can make all the difference. It’s not unlike any meaningful relationship—there needs to be safety, trust, and connection.
Here are some questions to ask in an initial consult:
- What’s your experience with issues like mine?
- What therapeutic approaches do you use?
- What does progress typically look like?
At Lifetouch Counseling, we believe therapy is relational at its core. We encourage prospective clients to explore therapist bios, ask questions, and listen to their gut. Therapy is most effective when you feel seen, heard, and respected.
3. What Kinds of Therapy Are There, and Which One Is Right for Me?
This is a big question—and a good one. Therapy isn’t one-size-fits-all.
Here are a few modalities we use at Lifetouch Counseling:
- CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy): Helps you reframe unhelpful thoughts and behaviors.
- EMDR & Brainspotting: Evidence-based therapies for healing trauma.
- Christian Counseling: Faith-based guidance integrated into therapeutic work.
- Couples Therapy: Strengthens communication, connection, and understanding.
- Safe & Sound Protocol (SSP): A non-invasive, sound-based therapy that supports emotional regulation.
As a trauma-informed clinician, I often match approaches to each person’s nervous system needs, history, and goals. Your therapist will help you navigate what fits.
4. What Should I Talk About in Therapy?
Anything you want. Really.
Common topics include:
- Anxiety or depression
- Grief and loss
- Relationship struggles
- Life transitions
- Past trauma
- Feeling “stuck”
It’s perfectly okay to start with, “I don’t know where to begin.” Many of my clients have found that just showing up is the start of transformation. From there, we co-create the path forward.
5. Is Therapy Confidential?
Yes, absolutely. Confidentiality is a cornerstone of therapy.
Your sessions are private but in certain cases we are considered mandatory reporters in Colorado:
- If there’s a risk of harm to yourself or others
- If there’s suspected abuse of a child, elderly, or vulnerable person
- If there is a history of Abuse
- If an Abuser is in a position of trust or power.
Outside of these exceptions, what you share stays between you and your therapist. If you have more questions about privacy, session structure, or what to expect, visit our FAQ page for additional guidance. This trust creates the safety needed for healing.
6. How Long Will Therapy Take Before I See Results?
It depends. Therapy is not a race; it’s a process.
Progress can be felt after a few sessions for some. For others, especially when addressing deeper trauma, healing unfolds over time.
Factors include:
- Complexity of your concerns
- Your goals and level of commitment
- Frequency of sessions
As a therapist, I view healing not just in terms of symptom relief, but in reclaiming your voice, restoring safety, and building lasting resilience. We’ll talk openly about goals and check in along the way.
7. How Much Does Therapy Cost, and Is It Worth It?
Therapy is an investment—in your mental clarity, emotional freedom, and relational health. At Lifetouch Counseling in Castle Rock, we aim to provide transparent pricing and flexible options to make quality care accessible.
Our fees are:
- $155 per clinical hour for individual therapy
- $170 per hour for couples therapy
- Extended couples/family sessions: $232.50 for 75 minutes, $306 for 90 minutes
- Individual EMDR and Brainspotting sessions are often booked for 75 minutes or more
We do not accept insurance, as it often requires therapists to follow rigid structures that may not serve every client’s needs. As a private-pay practice, we prioritize truly personalized, client-centered care. That said, we gladly accept HSA and Flex Pay cards and can provide superbills for clients to submit for potential out-of-network reimbursement.
Clients often tell me therapy is the first time they’ve felt deeply understood. And that kind of transformation? It’s priceless.
Final Thoughts
Starting therapy is an act of courage. It means you’re ready to stop surviving and start healing.
If you’re still on the fence, ask yourself this: What would it mean to give yourself this space? To be fully heard, without judgment?
If that idea brings even a small sense of relief, you’re already moving in the right direction. You can contact us here to ask questions or schedule your first session.
Ready to take the next step? Contact us today or explore more about our services.
Is Therapy Right for You? Self-Assessment Checklist
- Do you often feel overwhelmed or anxious?
- Are you experiencing difficulties in your relationships?
- Do past experiences continue to affect your present?
- Are you seeking personal growth or self-understanding?
- Do you feel “stuck” and unsure how to move forward?
If you answered “yes” to any of these questions, therapy might be a beneficial step for you.
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