Fenimore Counseling, LLC
4610 NE 77th Ave.
Suite 104
Vancouver, WA 98662
Providing quality care throughout Washington state and Oregon.
Certified EMDR Therapist
Washington State Approved Clinical Supervisor
Telehealth and In-Person Appointments
360-602-2533
FAQ's
Below are some answers to frequent questions I've received from new patients. If you can’t find what you are looking for, please feel free to contact me with your question.
What will my first therapy session be like?
Welcome!
​
Prior to your first appointment, you will receive some intake paperwork to complete so that I can learn a little about you and why you're coming to counseling. In your first appointment, we will review some your intake paperwork, and I will ask you if you have any questions. We will spend the remaining time completing your intake evaluation questions together.
​
It's normal to feel a little (or a lot) anxious for your first therapy session - it's hard telling a stranger things about yourself that you may have never told anyone else. It's important that you feel safe working with me, so if there is anything I can do to help you feel more comfortable before, or during, our first appointment, please let me know.
What is telehealth therapy?
Telehealth therapy refers to providing therapy services remotely using tele-communication technologies, such as video live conferencing or telephone. Telehealth therapy is different from traditional counseling in that that we will not be in the same room together.
​
Research has shown that virtual care is as effective as in-person care. For some people, telehealth is more effective than in-person counseling because it can be easier to attend appointments consistently (no traveling), and some people feel more comfortable engaging in counseling from in their own homes.
Do you offer in-person appointments?
Yes, in-person appointments are available now!
​
CDC requirements/ recommendations are followed for in-person appointments.
​
Some restrictions apply. In-person appointments are limited to Mondays and Wednesdays each week, and are by appointment only.
What’s the difference between talking to you or my best friend or family?
One of the biggest differences is that a mental health professional has specialized training to help you approach your situation in a different way. Mental health professionals can
teach you new skills, objectively offer different perspectives, and listen to you without judgment or expectations. Furthermore, counseling is completely confidential. You won’t have to worry about others knowing your "business.” In addition, if your situation provokes a great deal of negative emotion among the friends and family you’ve been confiding in, there is the risk that once you're feeling better, you may start avoiding that person so you aren’t reminded of this difficult time in your life.
Why shouldn’t I just take medication?
Medication can be effective but it cannot solve all issues.
​
Our work together is designed to explore and unpack the problems you are experiencing and expand on your strengths , which can help you accomplish your personal goals.
​
I am neither for or against psychiatric medications: I believe this is a personal decision. However, research shows better treatment outcomes when therapy is included with medication management.
How long will counseling take for me to feel better and meet my goals?
I want to get the most out of therapy. What can I do to help?
Unfortunately, this is not possible to say in a general FAQs page.
Everyone’s circumstances are unique to them and the length of time counseling can take to allow you to accomplish your goals depends on your desire for personal development, your commitment, and the factors that are driving you to seek counseling in the first place.
I am so glad you are dedicated to getting the most out of your sessions. Your active participation and dedication will be crucial to your success.
Feeling stressed? Overwhelmed? Out of touch with your life?
Click on a link below:
"There are only two days in the year that nothing can be done. One is called yesterday and the other is called tomorrow." - Dalia Lama
