WAUSA – Katie Anderson wants to answer people’s questions about mental health counseling, as May is Mental Health Awareness Month.
Anderson is a licensed independent mental health practitioner who provides counseling services at the Wausa Medical Clinic and via telehealth.
She is a certified clinical trauma professional and has specialized training in suicide risk assessments, dialectical behavior therapy and accelerated resolution therapy.
On behalf of Mental Health Awareness Month, Anderson answers frequently asked questions about mental health counseling at the Wausa Medical Clinic: - What services are offered at the Wausa Medical Clinic?
“WMC offers access to individual counseling services for teens and adults. Appointments with a licensed therapist are available in Wausa on Mondays and Thursdays. We can also offer virtual appointments to Nebraska and South Dakota residents.”
- How can counseling be helpful? “Counseling can help with managing a variety of life stressors and mental health conditions. Although exploring difficult emotions can be challenging at times, counseling can ultimately bring much relief. The benefits obtained depend on how you use the process and practice what you learn.”
- How is seeing a therapist different from talking with a friend?
“While friends can be a wonderful support system, friendship is a two-way street, which requires give-and-take to support the relationship. In contrast, the counseling space is just for you and your treatment goals. Because the therapist is not personally involved with your situation, they are also able to maintain an objective viewpoint while helping you process difficult emotions in a confidential space.” - Do therapists prescribe medication? “No. While therapists are often familiar with medications, they are not able to prescribe medication or tell another practitioner what to prescribe to you.” - Can people use their health insurance for counseling services? “Yes. WMC accepts Medicaid, Medicare and most private insurances. Your co-pay will depend on your specific policy, so it can be helpful to contact your insurance provider to confirm in-network status, regardless of your insurance company name and/or type.”
- Do people need a referral from their doctor? “WMC does not require a referral to begin counseling services. However, some insurance companies do. Therefore, it can be helpful to contact your insurance provider before scheduling an appointment.”
- If my child or spouse is receiving counseling, can you work with the rest of the family, too?
“Having everyone in the family see the same therapist is usually not recommended. When possible, having a ‘zone of privacy’ for each client helps the therapist remain neutral and build trust with the individual.”
- Do you offer diagnostic testing for autism, ADHD or other neurodevelopmental disorders?
“We offer counseling services for these diagnoses, but testing is not available at WMC. Families seeking formal psychological testing are encouraged to start this process by contacting a licensed psychologist or their child’s special education department.”
- How can people schedule a counseling appointment?
“Please call WMC at 402-586-2244 to schedule an intake appointment and obtain the paperwork. We ask that clients review and return the consent paperwork prior to their first appointment. If you are experiencing a mental health crisis, please do not wait until your first appointment to seek help. Support is available by calling the 988 (Suicide & Crisis) Lifeline.”
- What else should people know? “Appointments are scheduled for approximately 50 to 55 minutes. Clients typically are seen weekly or as decided upon between you and the therapist. Any cancellations/rescheduling must occur at least 24 hours in advance. Goodness of fit also plays a key role in your counseling experience. If you or the therapist feel that another provider may be a better fit, we are happy to provide you with referral options.”
On behalf of the Wausa Medical Clinic, Anderson wants to wish people a happy and healthy Mental Health Awareness Month.
“If you are considering taking the first step on your counseling journey, my hope for you can be summed up with the well-known quote: ‘Start where you are, use what you have, do what you can,’” Anderson said.
“If this sounds like a good client-therapist match for you, please contact the clinic today to schedule an intake appointment,” she said. “Help and hope are available.”
