Talking about the problems in your life can be uncomfortable and may feel threatening. Our professional staff considers it a privilege to collaborate with you, and they will use their professional experience and knowledge to help you help yourself.

A. Check with your insurance company for a referral or to be sure the therapist you want to see is covered by your insurance. Friends and relatives may be able to recommend a therapist. Also, check with your doctor or pastor for a recommendation. Be sure your therapist is a licensed mental health professional.

If you choose to come to the First Street Center, and you do not have insurance, ask the Reception staff about the sliding fee scale. (Note: We offer a sliding fee scale to Carver County residents only).

Feel free to ask your therapist questions: "What is my problem?" "Have you treated this before?" "What do you recommend?" "How long will it take?" "What will it cost?" "What other treatments should/could I consider?"

Choose someone you like and with whom you feel comfortable - someone you feel cares, is compassionate and values you as a person. You should feel warmth and respect. If you feel uncomfortable from the first contact, look for another therapist. Otherwise, give your relationship with your therapist a little time to develop and grow.

Monitor your progress. Discuss this with your therapist. Get a second opinion if and when you don't agree with your therapist or if you don't feel you're making adequate progress.

Therapy can and does work. Just remember that you need to be an active participant, choose a competent professional who cares and understands, ask questions, and be real and honest.

A. A psychiatrist is a medical doctor who has specialized in psychiatry or mental illnesses. Psychiatrists can prescribe drugs and medical therapies.

Psychologists conduct psychotherapy, do psychological testing, and work with individuals, families, and groups. They have specialized training and experience and have successfully completed professional licensure examinations at the masters or doctoral levels.

Psychiatric Nurses are registered nurses who have specialized in the area of mental health and may have advanced academic degrees at the master's level or above. At First Street Center, our psychiatric nurse prescribes medications for mental health problems.  

A. Confidentiality is basic to therapy and our services. The client has the right to control access to information about his/her treatment. Professional association guidelines plus Federal and State Laws underscore the importance of confidentiality in therapist/client relationships and govern the release of records. Some insurance companies require certain information from the therapist as a condition for payment.

Under the Minnesota Government Data Practices Act all client records are classified as private and are subject to restrictions on their use. Others outside the treatment center may not have access to your records without your written permission, except in particular instances including the threat of imminent serious harm to yourself or someone else, by court order, or if there is suspected abuse or neglect of children or vulnerable adults.