Our Services

1. Initial Contact & Scheduling

When you reach out to Phoenix Recovery, our friendly staff will help you schedule an initial appointment at a time that works for you. We'll answer any questions you have about our services, insurance coverage, and what to bring to your first session. You can call us at (608) 893-1052 or email phoenix@phoenix-recovery.org.

2. Your First Session (Intake Assessment)

Your first session, typically lasting 55-60 minutes, is an opportunity for us to get to know you and understand your needs. During this intake session, your therapist will:

• •Review intake paperwork covering your personal and medical history
• •Discuss what brought you to therapy and your current challenges
• •Ask about your background, including family, relationships, work, and any past trauma
• •Explore your goals for therapy and what success looks like for you
• •Explain confidentiality, your rights, and the therapist's responsibilities
• •Begin building a trusting therapeutic relationship

Remember: You won't be forced to discuss anything you're not ready to share. This session is about creating a safe space and determining the best path forward together.

3. Personalized Treatment Planning

After your initial assessment, your therapist will work with you to create a personalized treatment plan that addresses your specific needs. This plan may include:

• •Evidence-based therapeutic approaches (CBT, DBT, ACT, EMDR, etc.)
• •Individual therapy sessions scheduled weekly or bi-weekly
• •Group therapy or support groups when beneficial
• •Family therapy to improve communication and relationships
• •Medication management referrals if appropriate
• •Skills training for coping, emotion regulation, and relapse prevention

4. Ongoing Therapy Sessions

Regular therapy sessions typically last 45-60 minutes and focus on working toward your goals. During these sessions, you'll:

• •Explore thoughts, feelings, and behaviors in a safe, non-judgmental space
• •Learn and practice new coping skills and strategies
• •Process difficult emotions and experiences at your own pace
• •Track your progress and adjust your treatment plan as needed
• •Receive homework or activities to practice between sessions

It's completely normal to feel emotional during therapy—crying, expressing anger, or feeling vulnerable are all part of the healing process. Your therapist will provide support and guidance throughout.

5. Duration & Measuring Progress

The length of therapy varies based on your individual needs and goals. Some clients benefit from short-term therapy (8-12 weeks) focusing on specific issues, while others engage in longer-term therapy for several months or years to address complex concerns. We'll regularly review your progress together and adjust the frequency or approach as you heal and grow. Our consumer-focused, trauma-informed approach ensures your treatment adapts to your evolving needs.

6. Confidentiality & Your Privacy

Everything you share in therapy is confidential and protected by law. Your therapist will only share information with your written consent, except in rare situations required by law: if there's a risk of harm to yourself or others, suspected abuse or neglect of a child or vulnerable adult, or a court order. Your trust is sacred to us, and we take your privacy seriously.

Do I need a diagnosis to start therapy?

No, you don't need a mental health diagnosis to benefit from therapy. Many people seek therapy for stress management, relationship issues, life transitions, personal growth, or grief—not just for clinical disorders. If you're struggling or feeling overwhelmed, therapy can help.

How do I know if Phoenix Recovery is right for me?

Finding the right therapeutic fit is important. We encourage you to schedule an initial consultation to meet with one of our therapists and see if our approach resonates with you. A strong therapeutic relationship—where you feel heard, respected, and supported—is key to successful treatment. If our practice isn't the right match, we'll help connect you with other resources in Madison.

What insurance do you accept, and what are the costs?

Phoenix Recovery accepts most major insurance plans, including Medicare. We also offer sliding scale fees based on income for those without insurance coverage. During your initial contact, we'll verify your insurance benefits and discuss any out-of-pocket costs, copays, or deductibles. Our goal is to make quality mental health care accessible to all who need it.

How long will therapy take?

The duration of therapy is highly individualized and depends on your specific goals, the complexity of the issues you're addressing, and your progress over time. Short-term therapy might last 8-12 weeks for focused concerns, while long-term therapy for complex trauma, chronic mental health conditions, or substance use disorders may continue for several months to years. We'll regularly review your progress and adjust the treatment plan as needed.

Is therapy effective? Will it really help me?

Yes, therapy has been proven effective through extensive research, particularly evidence-based approaches like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and EMDR. The effectiveness of therapy depends on several factors: the quality of your relationship with your therapist, your willingness to engage in the process, and your openness to trying new strategies. Most clients who stay committed to therapy report improvements in their emotional well-being, relationships, and overall quality of life.

Can I do therapy if I'm also taking medication?

Absolutely. In fact, combining therapy with medication can be highly effective for many mental health conditions like depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and PTSD. While medication can help manage symptoms, therapy addresses the underlying causes of distress, teaches coping skills, and supports long-term behavioral change. Our team works collaboratively with prescribers to provide integrated care when medication management is part of your treatment plan.

What if I've tried therapy before and it didn't work?

Not all therapy experiences are the same, and a previous unsuccessful attempt doesn't mean therapy won't work for you. Different therapeutic approaches work for different people, and finding the right therapist and modality is crucial. At Phoenix Recovery, we use evidence-based treatments with proven effectiveness and tailor our approach to your unique needs. We encourage you to give therapy another chance with our experienced, compassionate team.

Do you offer virtual/telehealth sessions?

Yes, we offer both in-person and telehealth therapy sessions to accommodate your preferences and schedule. Our secure video platform allows you to participate in therapy from the comfort of your home, which can be especially convenient for those with transportation challenges, busy schedules, or a preference for remote care. We'll discuss the best format for your needs during your initial consultation.