Introspections/Dr. Jamie Pettus
 
FAQ
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Do you have a couch and do I have to lie on it?

Nope! No couches, at least no therapy couches. I have a nice comfy couch for you to sit on while we have our sessions, but it's just so you feel comfortable, not because Freud said you should do it that way!

If I come in for a consultation, does that mean I'm obligated to see you?

No. Coming in for a consultation just means you are coming to check me out. I'm really careful to make sure that people who come in for a consultation don't feel any pressure whatsoever to come back in unless they feel comfortable doing so, and feel we're a fit therapeutically. After our consultation, I'll ask you if you're ready to schedule or if you'd like to think about it. Either way is totally fine. A good fit is critical.

What hours are you available?

I'm pretty available, because this is all I do. I work evenings too and will occasionally schedule clients as late as 8pm if needed.

How much does it cost?

My normal fee is $120/session, but I offer a sliding scale fee from $40-$120/session for those who can't afford my full fee (and it's okay if you can't). And if you can't afford $40, ask me about it. It's important to me that people who need help are able to get it, so I"ll do my best to work something out.

How often will I see you and for how long?

Most people are seen once a week. Occasionally, I will see someone twice a week if they need or want it. And after things settle down, it's not unusual for sessions to be spaced out more, to once every two weeks or once a month. It's an individual thing, so we'll work out what's best for you. Some may come for just a few sessions while others will take a while longer. It all depends on you and what you want to accomplish.

Are you gay/lesbian/bisexual/transgender friendly?

Very friendly and I very much enjoy working with LGBT folks. I hope you'll find me very accepting in all respects.

If we're not a fit, will you recommend someone else?

Yes, of course I will. Just ask me...my feelings won't be hurt, because I'm very aware that there needs to be a good fit therapeutically. Everyone responds to be different type of therapist (just like we choose different characteristics in our friends). So if you don't think we're a good fit, no harm, no foul!

Do you work with couples?

Yes, and I just love it. It's one of my favorite things to do.

Will my piercings and tattoos freak you out?

No, your piercings and tattoos won't freak me out! I fully support you in expressing yourself that way.

Are people who see a therapist or counselor crazy and weak?

NO!!! It takes more strength to face your problems and deal with them honestly than it does to try to avoid them, or cover them up with working too much, drinking too much, drugging too much, being constantly busy, eating too much,etc. (You get the picture). And as far as being crazy...I think it's crazy NOT to get help if you need it!

Will you try to shrink my mind or alter my personality?

Not at all! In fact, it may seem like an ordinary conversation at times--but the power of therapy is, in part,having someone hear you without judgement and without being involved in your life (so they can be more objective).

Will you push pills on me or try to get me to see a psychiatrist?

Not normally. I think there are times that antidepressants and other medications can be really helpful in getting people through the day until they can make some changes that will bring them more happiness. And they can also correct chemical imbalances in the brain, brought on by stress, trauma, and life in general (as well as other things). But I'm all about helping you figure out what's best for you, and I respect that many people don't want to take medications. I also try to make suggestions for natural supplements that have been shown to help for those who are interested.

Will you try to shrink my mind or alter my personality?

Not at all! In fact, it may seem like an ordinary conversation at times--but the power of therapy is, in part,having someone hear you without judgement and without being involved in your life (so they can be more objective).

Do you think my mother is to blame for all of this???!!!

That's not the way I look at it. In fact, I probably won't bring up your childhood at all unless it's relevant to what's happening with you right now. I don't believe you have to relive your past to make your present and future better to live in. Many times, what's happened in the past (i.e., your responses to certain situations) can give us good information about how you deal with life, and what is bothering you today. But your past will not be a big focus for us in therapy.

Will my piercings and tattoos freak you out?

No, your piercings and tattoos won't freak me out! I fully support you in expressing yourself that way.

Why should I see you instead of someone else?

I don't know that you should. Finding the right therapist is important, and there needs to be a fit. That's what the consultations are for. I can tell you that I work very hard to be accepting, warm, nonjudgemental, insightful, and involved in helping you find the answers you're looking for. I also have been around the block a few times and have experienced many of the things my clients have, including depression. It's made me a better therapist.

What kind of educational background do you have?

*Psy.D and MA in Clinical Psychology from Forest Institute of Professional Psychology
*BA in Psychology from the University of NorthCarolina-Greensboro
*ADN in Nursing from Gardner-Webb University
*Certificate in Massage Therapy from Body Therapy Institute

What else are you interested in outside of therapy?

I am happily partnered...love my dogs, Cosmo and Enzo (Italian Greyhounds)...very much enjoy going to the theater when I can...am something of a technology geek. Being a therapist is my dream, and I love it!
People tend to have a lot of questions and concerns about therapy. Here are some of the answers about the way I do therapy.