FAQs

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 courage to reach out. Everyone needs help now and then. In our work together, I’ll help you explore and identify your strengths and how to implement them to reduce the influence of the problems you are facing.

What’s the difference between talking to you or my best friend or family?

The difference is the relationship. A therapist's relationship with you has the benefit of all the care and concern without the bias or past that can cloud work together. Furthermore, counseling 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, and 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?

The decision to take or not take medication is a personal one, and is best left to you and your prescriber. My role in our relationship is to be knowledgable about your medications, so I can help support you with any changes in your presentation or recommendations to revisit your provider for titrating your medications. I am not a prescriber, however. I support all my clients in their choice for medication or their choice not to take medication. As always, seek help from your prescriber before stopping any medication on your own. Research indicates the best outcomes result from medication when paired with therapy.

How does it work? What do I have to do in sessions?

Because each person has different issues and goals for counseling, it will be different depending on the individual. I tailor my therapeutic approach to your specific needs. The commonality across all sessions, however, is a willingness for change and a connection in our relationship.

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 counseling 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 counseling in the first place. It is never my goal, however, to see clients who are continually making no progress for years on end. Ethically, I refer clients to other providers, if we are not seeing progress in a reasonable amount of time.

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 will be crucial to your success. I will commit to working as hard as you work, every step of the way. In the end, the primary factor affecting progress is the trusting relationship between the therapist and client.