I’ve never talked to anyone. I’m used to handling things on my own. Aren’t people who go to therapy weak?
Absolutely not! People who ask for help know when they need it and demonstrate EMPOWERMENT and BRAVERY when they reach out. Everyone needs support now and then. None of us have superpowers that shield us from all that can be challenging in life. Perhaps this problem feels overwhelming and is making it difficult to access your past or existing strengths. In our work together, I’ll help you identify what your strengths are and how to implement them again in what is happening now.
What’s the difference between talking to you or my best friend or family?
A mental health professional can help you 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.” Don’t get me wrong, I believe having a person(s) in your life you confide in and whom has earned the right to hear your story is a blessing and important. However, working with a professional in addition to utilizing our existing supportive people can be a powerful tool to help us navigate or move forward from suffering and struggling.
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 story 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. It is most successful when you allow yourself to be honest and open to feedback.
How long will it take?
Unfortunately, this is not possible to say in a general FAQs page. Everyone’s circumstances are unique to them. 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 committment is crucial to your success. It’s what 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.