Q: What does a licensed marriage and family therapist do?

A: Technically speaking, a licensed marriage and family therapist (L.M.F.T.) helps identify and assist in resolving mental/emotional disturbances with emphasis on the ways that the mental or emotional issue disrupts an individual's relationships. My work is not limited to marriage or couples counseling, although I certainly provide these services. At the same time, a large portion of my practice consists of people seeking individual therapy for a wide variety of issues.

Q: What sort of problems or issues can you help with?

A: My training and experience has equipped me to help my clients with a wide variety of issues including depression, relationship issues, bereavement, chronic discouragement, dysfunctional family problems, post-traumatic stress disorder, disability adjustment, life transition issues and more.
I am also a spiritual teacher and intuitive. I offer classes, workshops and special consultations, all with the goal of advancing spiritual and personal growth. When it comes to the healing work that I do, one size definitely doesn't fit all. So, I have tried to develop a variety of services that address the needs of my diverse clientele.

Q: My significant other and a few of my friends think I have a problem and should get some counseling. I'm not sure. Is there a way to know if I really need counseling?

A: If the thought has crossed your mind, then, chances are that the deeper part of yourself thinks you might just benefit from some counseling. Whenever a problem creates difficulty that interferes with work, school, relationships or other important areas of life, it's best to consult with a professional about the problem.
Keep in mind that participating in counseling or psychotherapy doesn't mean that you are mentally ill or "crazy". When your car has "problems", you take it to a mechanic. When your body experiences dis-ease, you go to a physician or other health care practitioner. Therefore, when you experience problems in your relationships and other important areas of life, why not seek the input of a professional therapist? Counseling and psychotherapy (therapy for the mind and emotions) are valuable tools that you can choose to use in identifying the potential problem and resolving it.

Q: Do I already have to be a client to attend one of your workshops or groups?

A: No. Unless I otherwise specify, my workshops, classes and special presentations are open to anyone who wants to learn and grow.

Q: Will my insurance plan cover the cost of my therapy with you?

A: It's possible but you will need to be referred to me by your insurance company. Check with me to see if I am already on your insurance company's or EAP provider panel. However, please be aware that the types of therapy covered and the number of total sessions allowed is strictly limited by most HMOs. You should also know that the HMO will require you to sign an authorization permitting me to release information to the insurance company regarding your therapy.

Q: If I choose not to utilize my HMO or insurance won't cover my services, are there any other options open to me?

A: Absolutely. In life, you always have choices--even when it doesn't seem so. One option is to pay for your services out of your own pocket. Visa/Mastercard is a convenient option for some of my clients. In the case of financial hardship, I can sometimes help people locate local services that are either free or require a small fee.
Therapy is a valuable investment of your time, money and other resources into your life. It takes a good deal of self-esteem to make an important financial investment toward creating your own happiness. If you find yourself saying, "I can't afford counseling", stop and consider if you truly can afford not to go to counseling? Once you decide that therapy is a valuable experience you want to participate in, you will naturally become a magnet for the resources that will support your successful participation in counseling.

Q: How do I arrange for a consultation with Elyse Allen, L.M.F.T.?

A: You can contact Elyse at (916) 349-8783 to schedule a consultation, enroll in workshops and groups, arrange for Elyse to speak at your event or to purchase audio tape topics. You can also join my e-mail list by telephoning the office or send mail to elyse.allen@earthlink.net.

Should you reach my confidential voice mail system, please don't be put off by this or think that I don't care about your call. The majority of my time is spent in consultation with clients and community outreach. Therefore, you are likely to catch me away from the phone, most of the time. If so, please be sure to follow the voice mail instructions and know that I will return your call promptly.

I thank you for your interest in my services. My staff and I surround you with love and light as you travel along your personal road of self-discovery and healing.