Frequently Asked Questions

What is therapy and why should I invest in it?

Therapy (aka counseling or psychotherapy) is a process where individuals work with a trained, licensed professional to address personal issues, emotional challenges, and mental health concerns. The goal is to improve well-being, cope with difficulties, and develop healthier thinking and behavior patterns. It is an investment in yourself and a terrific form of self-care.

What types of things do people at Latchkey Therapy seek treatment for?

Life! Many clients don’t feel like “therapy people” and may have put it off as a luxury until they really felt stuck and not themselves. If your daily life includes any of the following, you are in the right place: Feeling overwhelmed or constantly stressed.

• Experiencing persistent sadness, anxiety, or anger.

• Difficulty handling life changes or relationships.

• Struggling with low self-esteem or self-worth.

• Feeling like this cannot POSSIBLY be your new life and wondering if it is a stage.

• Having difficulty managing your changing body, new divorce, empty-nesting, and caring for your parent(s) while struggling to feel normal.

What happens during a therapy session?

Therapy sessions are about an hour long and will involve talking with me either via telehealth or in my private office in North Raleigh. We will get to know each other by exploring the biggest reason for your reaching out, and decide the best course of treatment moving forward. Beginning therapy can be a bit daunting, but once clients take the first step, they usually report feeling very comfortable. Some even are annoyed with themselves for overthinking it!

How long does therapy take?

The duration of therapy varies depending on your needs and goals. Some people attend therapy for a few sessions to address a specific issue, while others may continue for months or longer to work through deeper issues. It's a personal process, and I will help you determine a plan that works for you in accordance with your insurance and schedule.

What should I expect from Latchkey Therapy and Kris?

A good therapist will be empathetic, non-judgmental, and professional. I will listen carefully to you, offer guidance, and help you explore your feelings and thoughts. I will respect your privacy and maintain confidentiality while holding a safe space for you. I also feel it’s important to tell you that I will show up when we are scheduled because I am aware that integrity is a huge part of our relationship and also because I love what I do and want to reflect that. In some cases, clients jump hurdles to get to therapy and it might be the only time they take for themselves. As such, any flakiness on my part is unacceptable.

What if we aren’t a good match?

A good fit often involves feeling heard, understood, and supported. If at any time you aren’t feeling therapeutic value or simply feeling we aren’t a good match, I want you to fire me as your therapist. Yes, you heard that right. I can get you a list of referrals and I promise it will not feel as awkward as it sounds. I can also assist in finding additional support while still seeing you for a specialty area I am not trained in (ex. EMDR, IFS, etc.) and can warmly transfer you to that new clinician or we can both see you simultaneously. Hiring a therapist is quite the same process as a dentist, doctor, chiropractor, or any other health professional. You are in charge.

But is therapy confidential?

Yes, therapy is confidential, which means that what you discuss with me at Latchkey Therapy is private. However, there are a few exceptions, such as if there is a risk of harm to yourself or others, or if a court order mandates the release of information. This is all information we will cover in our first “intake” session.

I’m worried about the cost and my budget is already tighter than usual.

I accept Aetna insurance and also can provide you a Superbill of your monthly cost upon request. That is a bill that you submit to insurance to get reimbursed for your sessions. Many clients find that they are reimbursed 70-80% of their out-of-pocket cost. Definitely check with your insurance carrier prior to our first session. For more about cost, see my FEES page.

Listen, can therapy really help someone like me?

Yes! I believe therapy can be very effective in helping people manage mental health issues, improve their relationships, and enhance their overall quality of life. However, the success of therapy often depends on your commitment to the process and willingness to engage with me as your therapist. You are in charge and the best expert on all things you, so we will form a team and navigate our sessions together.

What's the next step? I think I am ready to get started.

Fantastic! Click below to get this process started and we can meet for a quick complimentary call.