Quick answers

• Locations: Utah County (in‑person) and secure telehealth within Utah.

• Specialties: Trauma/PTSD, anxiety, depression, grief, couples conflict, affairs, communication, intimacy, life transitions.

• Approaches: ART, Gottman Level 3, EFCT/EFT; also IFS‑informed when helpful.

• Availability: Weekday appointments; limited evenings.

• Emergencies: If you’re in crisis, call 988 (Suicide & Crisis Lifeline), 911, or go to the nearest ER.

Therapy & Approach

1) What is Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART)?

ART is a brief, image‑based, evidence‑informed therapy that uses guided eye movements to help the brain reconsolidate distressing memories and sensations. Many clients notice significant relief quickly, often in 1–5 sessions for a specific target. We move at your pace, with clear consent and a trauma‑informed process.

2) How is ART different from EMDR or traditional talk therapy?

While ART shares some elements with other therapies, its focus is on rapid reduction of distress by changing the way problematic images are stored and felt in the body. Sessions tend to be directive and structured, with less narrative retelling and more guided imagery and resourcing.

3) What is Gottman Method Couples Therapy?

Gottman is a research‑driven approach that strengthens friendship, reduces conflict, and builds new habits for connection. We’ll assess your relationship (including strengths) and practice specific tools for communication, repair, trust, and intimacy.

4) What is EFCT/EFT for couples?

Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy helps partners understand the deeper bonding needs beneath recurring arguments. It’s an attachment‑based model that fosters responsiveness, safety, and closeness.

5) Who do you work with?

Primarily adults and couples. Common themes: trauma, anxiety, burnout, grief, infidelity repair, premarital work, parenting stress, and life transitions.

6) What happens in the first session?

We clarify goals, review your history and current concerns, and co‑create a plan. For couples, we typically start together, with occasional brief 1:1 check‑ins when clinically helpful.

Getting Started & Logistics

7) How do I schedule?

Call 801.210.9147, email matthew@benavidezlmft.com, or request an appointment at benavidezlmft.com. I’ll follow up to confirm fit and next steps.

8) Do you offer telehealth?

Yes—secure video sessions are available to clients located in Utah at the time of the session. We can combine telehealth and in‑person based on your needs.

9) Where are you located?

I serve Utah County (e.g., Saratoga Springs, Lehi, American Fork, Orem, Provo, Pleasant Grove, Spanish Fork). Exact directions and parking details are provided when scheduling.

10) What are your fees and how do I pay?

Current fees are provided at scheduling. I accept debit/credit cards and HSA/FSA. You’ll see your rate clearly before your first appointment.

11) Do you take insurance?

I do not bill insurance directly. Many clients use out‑of‑network benefits; I can provide a superbill you can submit for possible reimbursement. Call your insurer and ask: What are my out‑of‑network mental health benefits? Do I need prior authorization? What is my deductible and coinsurance?

12) Do you offer a Good Faith Estimate?

Yes. Under the No Surprises Act, you’re entitled to a Good Faith Estimate of expected costs. You’ll receive this in writing before your first session upon request.

13) What is your cancellation policy?

I hold your time exclusively. If you need to cancel or reschedule, please give at least 24–48 hours notice to avoid a late‑cancellation fee. Details are included in intake forms.

14) How often will we meet and for how long?

Most sessions are 50 minutes (with extended sessions available when clinically indicated, especially for ART). Frequency depends on goals—weekly or bi‑weekly is common early on.

15) What if I’m not sure therapy is right for me?

That’s normal. We’ll go at a pace that fits you, and I’ll make clear recommendations. If another provider or service would serve you better, I’ll help with referrals.

Couples & Specialty Care

16) Do you work with infidelity/affair recovery?

Yes. We’ll stabilize, reduce crisis, and create a structured path for repair, accountability, rebuilding trust, and renewed connection.

17) Premarital or relationship checkups?

Absolutely. We can do focused assessments and skill‑building to strengthen communication, conflict management, and shared meaning before problems escalate.

18) How quickly can ART help with trauma or anxiety?

Every person is unique, but many clients experience meaningful relief within a small number of sessions for a defined target (e.g., a specific memory, trigger, or sensation). Complex trauma may require phased work.

19) Do you coordinate with other providers?

With your written consent, I collaborate with physicians, psychiatrists, and (when appropriate) school or community supports to align care.

20) Do you work with teens or families?

My focus is adults and couples. If you’re seeking teen or family services, I’m happy to share trusted referrals.

Policies, Privacy & Ethics

21) Is therapy confidential?

Yes—with important legal and ethical limits to confidentiality (e.g., risk of harm to self/others, abuse/neglect of a vulnerable person, or court orders). We’ll review these in your intake.

22) What if I’m in crisis?

Therapy is not a crisis service. If you are in immediate danger or considering harming yourself, call 988 or 911, or go to the nearest emergency room.

23) Do you provide letters for court, disability, or custody evaluations?

These specialized services are not part of my practice. I can provide referrals to clinicians or agencies that focus on evaluations and court‑related documentation.

24) Accessibility and accommodations

Please let me know any access needs (sensory, mobility, language). I will do my best to accommodate and connect you with additional resources if needed.