I’ve never talked to a therapist. I’m used to handling things on my own. Aren’t people who go to counseling weak?
Not at all. It takes tremendous courage to ask for help when you need it and strength to reach out to a professional. Everyone needs help now and then. You already have some strengths that you’ve used before, and for whatever reason, they aren’t working right now. Perhaps this problem feels overwhelming and is making it difficult to access your past strengths. In our work together, I’ll help you identify what those strengths are and how to utilize them to resolve the challenges that you are currently struggling with.
What’s the difference between talking to you or my best friend or family?
A professional counselor can help you to approach your situation in a new way– teach you new skills, gain different perspectives, listen to you without judgment or expectations, and help you listen to yourself. Furthermore, therapy is completely confidential. You won’t have to worry about others “knowing my business.” Lastly, if your situation provokes a great deal of negative emotion, if you’ve been confiding in a friend or family member, there is the risk that once you are feeling better you could start avoiding that person so you aren’t reminded of this difficult time in your life.
Why shouldn’t I just take medication?
Medication alone cannot solve all issues. What medication does is treat the symptoms. Our work together is designed to explore the root of the issue, dig deep into your behavior and teach strategies that can help you accomplish your personal and/or relational goals. My belief is that medication is often an effective but temporary fix to help you to continue to function and maintain responsibilities while we work together on permanent resolutions to the challenges that you are facing.
How does it work? What do I have to do in sessions?
Because each person has different issues and goals for therapy, counseling sessions will be different depending on the individual. I tailor my therapeutic approach to your specific needs. Our first session will focus on getting to know you and identifying your treatment goals. We will review the paperwork that you completed, and I will address any questions that you may have. Finally , we will come up with a plan regarding how often we will meet and schedule your next appointment.
How long will I have to keep coming?
Everyone’s circumstances are unique to them and the length of time therapy can take to allow you to accomplish your goals depends on your desire for personal development, your commitment, and the factors that are driving you to seek therapy in the first place.
How long are the sessions?
The first session is approximately 60-90 minutes in order to allow time to review paperwork and gather background information.
Individual sessions are 45 minutes in duration.
Couples and Family sessions are 60 minutes in order to allow additional time for processing of emotions that can be quite intense while utilizing this treatment modality.
Group Counseling sessions are 60-90 minutes depending on the number of participants.
I want to get the most out of therapy. What can I do to help?
I am so glad you are dedicated to getting the most out of your sessions. Your active participation and dedication is crucial to your success. It’s the work you do outside of our sessions that will really help you see your personal growth and development.
My partner and I are having problems. Should we be in individual counseling or come together?
If you are concerned about your relationship, and you would both like to work with me, I would initially work with both of you together. After this work, if one of you would like to continue in individual sessions, I could work with only one of you. It is not helpful to move from individual into couple’s work with the same therapist because of potential trust issues. I have partnered with trusted associates who can provide couples or family sessions when there is a conflict of interest.