Frequently Asked Questions About Therapy

Here are some frequently asked questions about therapy. Hopefully, these FAQs will help you feel informed and knowledgeable going into your first session. If you have further questions, feel free to contact us.

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 come to therapy are strong enough to ask for help when they need it.

Everyone needs help now and then. If something isn’t working, whether it’s in your personal life, professionally, with a significant other, or with your family, therapy can help.

 In our work together, I’ll help you identify your strengths and how to implement them in order to reach your goals.

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

When you talk to a friend, they give you advice based on their past experiences. When you talk to a professional, they listen and help you make your own decisions about your life.

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 your 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.

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?

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 to hear that 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.

1. Consistency is key to reaching your goals. Additionally, it is vital to give yourself at least one hour a week where you can put yourself first to focus on YOU.

2. Develop a stronger rapport with your therapist. It is easier and more likely that you will become more comfortable with your therapist and more apt to opening up in the therapy session if you are meeting with them regularly

3. A set, weekly time helps makes therapy an expected part of your routine. Having infrequent or inconsistent appointments with your therapist can lead to forgetting sessions or stunting your growth and development in therapy.

4. Avoid cancellation fees. We do have a cancellation fee. Be mindful that if you cannot make it to see us, let us know 24 hours in advance.

5. Going to therapy even when you feel “good” can actually be quite effective. When we are at our best, we have more resources to deal with long standing patterns or deep personal issues.

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 recommend both partners go into individual therapy alongside seeking couples therapy. I generally do one-to-one with both partners to check in as far as relationship climate is concerned once you have become an established couple.

Ready to get started? Any other questions?

Hopefully our frequently asked questions about therapy, made you feel knowledgeable about our process. Whether you’re ready to book an appointment or you have further questions, clicking the button below will begin your journey.