I’ve never talked to anyone. I’m used to handling things on my own. Aren’t people who go to therapy weak?
Not at all. People who ask for help know when they need it and have the ability to reach out. Everyone needs help dealing with life. You already have some strengths and strategies that you’ve used before, but that may not be working now. Perhaps this problem feels difficult and overwhelming and you feel stuck. In our work together, I’ll help you identify new strategies and avenues to address and correct what is causing you trouble now in a positive way.
What’s the difference between talking to you or my best friend or family?
The difference is that mental health professionals are trained and experienced while friends and family may not be. Therapists and counselors have skills and capabilities specifically developed to treat you. Therapists provide alternative approaches to problem solving and different perspectives, we teach new skills that have been found to be effective, we listen without judgment or expectations, and are trained to maintain objectivity. Therapy is protected by therapist-patient confidentiality and others will not be privy to “knowing my business.” Lastly, confiding in a friend or family member about such intimate and personal topics may have the potential of negatively impacting or damaging the relationship.
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.
Medication can be effective and is sometimes needed in conjunction with therapy.
How does it work? What do I have to do in sessions?
Because each person has different issues and goals for therapy, therapy will be different depending on the individual. I tailor my therapeutic approach to your specific needs
How long will it take?
Unfortunately, this is not possible to say in a general FAQs page. 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.
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. After all, we only see each other for a session a week. 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.