Although verbalizing emotions, thoughts, and feelings is a part of every session it may not be used as the primary form of processing during sessions. The physical act of speaking can be empowering but it may also feel overwhelming. Talking is just one way to make connections and process our inner worlds. Using alternatives like incorporating movement or making something can add additional perspective and encourage healing. Additionally, our left hemisphere is responsible for storing trauma and is also the side of our brain that we engage when creating.

Every person and every session varies depending on a client’s needs. However many things will remain consistent including length and environment, as well as informed communication. Traditional sessions are 60 minutes and typically involve a check-in and warm-up followed up by a deeper exploration of the content exhumed during check-in and concluded by a transitional period of closing the session.

Treatment varies depending on each client’s goals. Most oftentimes sessions are once or twice a week and depending on each person’s needs over time they may reduce down to every other week before terminating. Each client has full autonomy over when they’d like to conclude therapy. It is important to note that ethically the therapist is only to continue with sessions if they deem the client still benefitting from treatment.

I always introduce art therapy to those who don’t already engage in creative exploration as much more about the process than a product. Many folks begin with “I can’t even draw a stick figure” and that’s okay! Each person has a different comfort level with materials. You may dislike drawing but enjoy the feeling of molding with clay. We may explore multiple different materials or none at all, you will always have full autonomy and may decide your involvement level with making. Alternatives to art making include different forms of movement, regulating techniques, and other psychosomatic interventions.

Ten Four Therapy has a 24-hour cancellation policy. Each client has one session buffer before being charged for any late cancellations— meaning the first time you no-show or have a late cancelation you will not be charged. Thereafter a full session will be charged unless cancellation is due to illness (and not able to meet for a virtual session) or an emergency. If you are 15 minutes or more late to a session it is deemed a late cancellation.

Ten Four Therapy accepts two forms of payment. Credit/Debit and Victims Compensation Assistance Program (VCAP). There are two applications for VCAP: General Crime & Sexual Assault. These events had to have occurred in PA, however, for SA applications no reporting or police involvement is required to have compensation. General crime compensation needs to have been reported to authorities. Compensation varies between $5,000-$10,000 and multiple applications may be filed for separate events.

Every therapist is different and has a unique level of comfortability with self-disclosure. Ethically it may be considered only appropriate to disclose certain personal information as a therapist when it is in the best interest of a client. For example, a therapist disclosing their queerness, in the proper context may indicate to the client it is a safe and accepting space for all. At Ten Four all questions are welcome and it is at the discretion of the therapist as to whether or not it is appropriate or helpful to share.

Each client’s journey and relationship with therapy is different. Some folks enjoy and crave structure and may want tangible tasks, invitations, or suggestions from their therapist each session on how to bring what they uncover during sessions, out into their everyday. Other folks desire the time in therapy to engage in narrative and self-expression and want to leave the session at session. Either way, as you begin to discover your preferences your therapist will ask your preferences and include your feedback in session dynamics.

This is a tricky one, although the therapists in our office have an affinity for animals… due to allergies, some folks trauma and a variety of other factors the answer is likely no. However, service animals are always welcome.

Not any one therapist is right for everyone. There are a variety of factors when choosing a therapist. I encourage others to consider the following:

-Do I feel safe with this person?
-Are they actively listening (e.g. repeating back, engaging in nonverbal cues, etc.)
-Are their credentials up to date?
-Have they properly informed me of my rights as a client?
-Do I feel I have autonomy in the space we share?
-Do I feel heard and affirmed?
-Is this therapist knowledgeable about the presenting concerns I have?

Of course, you will always have access to refreshments in our waiting area and may also bring any food or drink you’d like from outside. Bringing any materials or objects from home is also an option. Depending on the size and function there may also be the opportunity to leave it at our office in a locked space for safekeeping. If you’re unsure you can always ask.