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Frequently Asked Questions

The style of therapy I practice is solution-focused, goal-directed, and tends to be shorter-term than others types of therapy. We focus more on solutions and less on the problems that brought you (or someone you care about) to therapy. This type of therapy is not only one of the leading schools of brief therapy, it has also become a major influence in such diverse fields as business, social policy, education, criminal justice services, child welfare, and domestic violence offenders treatment.

The approach I use is practical, goal-driven and emphasizes clear, concise, realistic goal achievement. I believe–and my training and experience support—that: 1. all clients have some knowledge of what would make their life better, even though they may need some (at times, considerable) help describing the details of their better life; and that 2. everyone who seeks help already possesses at least the minimal skills necessary to create solutions.

I am happy to speak with you by phone for an initial consultation (at no charge to you) to determine if my approach and your goals are conducive to achieving results in a short time period.

A bit about my approach to marriage/family therapy: According to a recent article in The New York Times (Weil, Elizabeth, “Does Couples Therapy Work?” Published March 2, 2012), “It’s widely acknowledged that couples therapy is the most challenging,” says Richard Simon, editor of The Psychotherapy Networker. The article states that, “Part of the problem is that the kind of person who tends to become a therapist — empathic, sensitive, calm, accepting — is generally not the kind of person who is a good couples therapist.“ Says Terry Real, a licensed independent clinical social worker, “The traditional, passive uh-huh, uh-huh is useless. You have to like action. To manage marital combat, a therapist needs to get in there, mix it up with the client, be a ninja. This is intimidating.”

I seek clients who seek solutions and are open to the possibility that there may be a lot more that is right with their relationship than wrong. Finding solutions does not have to be hard or full of sacrifice—solutions are the result of thoughtful decisions that make for more balanced, peaceful outcomes.

I am interested in continuing to build quality relationships and serve others in our community as time permits. My aim will be to learn from you:

  • The specific nature of your organization, e.g., business, school, church, etc.
  • How I can best serve your needs in terms of topic, e.g., office team building, conflict resolution within a marriage, anxiety management, etc.
  • What you know that would make your audience feel most interested in and connected to the topic
  • The end result you desire

If you are willing and able to provide me with your insights in these areas I will make every effort (subject to availability) to facilitate a meaningful program intended to deliver desired outcomes.

No. The short explanation: You are not sick and I am not going to cure you.

The details: You already have every single thing you need—within your own heart and head—to repair a relationship, to solve a personal issue with which you suffer, or to change the course of your life.

In order to bill your insurance company I have to give you a “mental disorder diagnosis” and communicate on a regular basis with your insurance company about your progress toward a “cure.” Then, depending on the insurance company, I may have to write report at certain intervals to show that you’re still “sick” with that “mental disorder.“ For them to continue paying for therapy, my report needs to show that you’re still “sick” and getting better, but that you aren’t “cured” yet.

This information about you stays within your file forever and I believe it is uniquely counter-productive to my integrity and to your sense of personal strength, problem-solving and empowerment. I am vested in your finding solutions to your issues and getting on with your life.

Therapy is an investment in you, your relationships, and your family. My aim is to work in partnership with you to provide you with a more immediate sense of relief (within reason) while keeping your cost of care (over time) to a minimum. That said, I do not believe in prolonging therapy for therapy’s sake.

Fees charged for 50 min. sessions in person, by phone, or online via secure platform are $250.00 and we accept cash, check, credit card and/or cards associated with your flex or health care savings account.

My fee schedule is based on the value of my experience, knowledge, continuing education, skills and time.

Contact Me

Please contact me TODAY to explore the opportunity for clarity and peace in your life and relationships. I look forward to answering your questions, learning more about your UNIQUE situation, and getting an appointment scheduled that works for you.

Please note that I work with several busy executives and other professionals for whom leaving the office becomes the biggest hurdle to forward movement in their most critical relationships–in marriage, family, and work. For a fee, I do arrange sessions at client offices and am happy to discuss details with you in person or by phone. I also conduct sessions via Skype for out-of-town clients.

Lori Underwood Therapy