Why do people seek therapy?

There is no one reason why individuals seek counseling.  Whatever the catalyst,  therapy can provide support, offer problem-solving skills, and enhanced coping skills for depression, anxiety, confidence concerns, relationship worries, bereavement, and substance use/abuse. People seeking psychotherapy services are willing to take responsibility for their actions, working towards self-change and creating greater awareness in their lives.

 What can I expect in a therapy session?

During sessions the concerns and issues in your life are explored. The frequency of visits, which can change as your situation warrants, is negotiable and many factors enter into your decision. The time between sessions is beneficial to think about and process what was discussed/explored.  You may be asked to take certain actions outside of the therapy sessions, such as reading a relevant book or tracking progress. For therapy to "work," you must be an active participant, both in and outside of the therapy sessions.

 What benefits can I expect from working with a therapist?

A whole host of benefits arise from participating in psychotherapy. Often it is validating to know that someone hears you and will try to understand your angst. 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 towards improved personal growth, interpersonal relationships, family concerns, and coping with daily life. The benefits you obtain from therapy depend on how you use the process and put into practice what you learn. Some of the benefits, but not guarantees from therapy include:

• Attaining a better understanding of yourself and your personal goals and values
• Developing skills for improved  relationships- including learning to set boundaries when appropriate
• Finding peace with the issues or concerns that led you to seek therapy
• Creating your own tailored  'toolbox' to cope with stress and anxiety
• Managing anger, depression, and other emotional triggers
• Improving communications skills - learn how to listen to others, and have others listen to you
• Getting "unstuck" from unhealthy patterns - discarding old behaviors and developing more 'authentic' ones
• Improving your self-esteem and boosting self-confidence
• Weight loss and improved self care including eating and sleeping hygiene.

What if I don't know what my goals are for therapy?

This is something that will be discovered together at your pace, and most likely will evolve once we have an established relationship.  There is no time frame for this process and if you keep an open mind to the journey of your own life, we will navigate the way together. During the course of therapy your goals may change. Therapy is a journey, and no one can predict where that journey will lead you, only that it will hopefully enhance your life and living.

Do you accept insurance?  How does insurance work?

I am accepting clients who are self pay, meaning that they are not accessing their mental health component of their insurance.  Many individuals choose to do this because it give them autonomy from their health insurance which means their health plan cannot ask for any of my clinical records.  I am a MaineCare provider and have contracted with Sweetzer to be an affiate with them.  Please your particular health plan  to see if I am contracted with them.  As this changes weekly, I suggest you call often to get the latest information.   

I have applied to insurance panels and when I am an authorized clinician for their plans, I will update this site and let you know.  Should I offer a plan that you have, the first action you should take is to call your insurance carrier and ask member services if I am a clinician covered under your particular plan. Check your coverage carefully and find the answers to the following questions:

• Do I have mental health benefits?
• Is Elizabeth Boyajian, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, #3300 a provider with my plan?
• What is my co-payment for mental health visits?
• What is my deductible and has it been met?
• Do i need a referral to see this therapist?

therapy confidential?

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:

• Suspected child abuse or dependant adult or elder abuse.  I am required by law to report this to the appropriate authorities immediately.
• If a client is threatening serious bodily harm to another person/s.  I must notify the police and inform the intended victim.
• If a client intends to harm himself or herself.  I will make every effort to enlist their cooperation in insuring your safety. If the situation warrants, further measures may be taken without permission in order to ensure safety.