Frequently Asked Questions
Who does Dr. Aikman see in her practice?
Dr. Aikman sees a wide range of individuals including adult men and women and older adolescents. She has a broad-based practice that includes those struggling with depression, bipolar, anxiety, relationship and family of origin issues, trauma, eating disorders and body image concerns. Clients come to therapy for help with particular life events and transitions as well as for more long-standing and ongoing struggles and problems.
What is Dr. Aikman's approach to therapy?
Dr. Aikman works collaboratively with her clients to understand their unique set of issues and problems and to create a safe and therapeutic environment. The focus is on establishing a healing relationship and using it to facilitate insight and greater personal awareness and understanding. This helps clients break out of their negative patterns of relating to others as well as their unproductive behavior patterns that cause them to feel stuck and unsatisfied.
What will the initial phone contact with Dr. Aikman be like?
The first contact will typically be a phone consultation. In this conversation you will briefly share the problems for which you are seeking therapy. We will then discuss the alignment between your needs and the services/support that I provide. In this phone consult, we will also discuss fees, insurance, and appointment schedules.
What happens in the initial session?
In the initial session you will have the opportunity to describe in greater detail the concerns and issues that brought you to therapy. Dr. Aikman will share with you her approach to helping you with your unique situation and set of concerns. Together we will agree on your primary concerns and will establish initial goals for treatment. We will also determine when and how often we will meet. This initial session will be another opportunity for you to further assess your comfort level in the therapy relationship and whether it seems to be a good “fit”. You may have questions about therapy that can also be addressed in this first session.
How long will I be in therapy?
The length of time an individual spends in therapy is difficult to determine, and varies from person to person. However, throughout treatment we will discuss and monitor the progress that you have made and the issues or areas of your life that you may still want to change and improve. Though it is possible to make progress and experience some relief from stressors and symptoms within a few months of therapy, I believe that significant, lasting change requires time and a depth of understanding.
Does Dr. Aikman have a specialty?
Yes, Dr. Aikman has a specialty in eating disorders though the majority of her patients come for therapy seeking help with a wide range of issues and problems. Dr. Aikman works with patients with anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, compulsive overeating and dieting, binge eating disorder and body image issues and dissatisfaction. Treatment for these problems begins with a thorough assessment. The goal of treatment is not only to overcome the eating disorder symptoms but to understand and resolve the underlying issues. Treatment may also include referrals for nutrition therapy, medication, medical monitoring and eating disorders support groups.
Is the content of the therapy sessions confidential?
Yes, maintaining confidentiality is vital in therapy and Dr. Aikman is committed to preserving your privacy. Information about you and your therapy will not be released to others without your knowledge and written consent. In general, state and federal laws protect the confidentiality of all communications between a client and a psychologist. Legally, there are few exceptions to this rule.
What kind of results can I expect from therapy with Dr. Aikman?
Throughout treatment we will discuss and monitor the progress that you are making. Progress can be seen and felt in many ways. Most people report changes such as a decrease in their psychological symptoms (e.g., depression, anxiety and chaotic eating patterns), greater coping skills, less stress, improved relationships, greater self-awareness and insight, and an overall greater sense of well-being.
Will my health insurance cover the cost of the sessions with Dr. Aikman?
Many clients have health insurance that provides reimbursement for some or most of the cost of psychotherapy. To determine the extent of your insurance coverage, you should review your insurance contract or call the customer service number on the back of your insurance card to determine if psychotherapy visits outside of network are covered. Although I do not accept most insurance, I can provide you with a receipt to submit to your insurance company.
How do I get started?
Please call Dr. Kerry Aikman at 612-246-3017 to set up an appointment or e-mail her at kerry@kerryaikman.com for additional information. Because email systems are never 100% secure, complete confidentiality cannot be guaranteed. Please keep this in mind when using email to communicate with me.