I’ve never talked to anyone. I’m used to handling things on my own. How do I know if therapy will help?

Everyone needs help now and then.  Feelings of overwhelm make it difficult sometimes to make decisions on what actions to take.  It is especially helpful to have someone to validate your feelings and assist you in exploring your options.  Therapy can help you identify the strengths you already possess, while building and nurturing new skills that will be beneficial.  In our work together, I’ll help you identify what those strengths are and how to implement them again in your current situation.

What’s the difference between talking to a therapist instead of to my best friend or a family member?

A therapist is someone who has the training and experience to help you approach your situation in a new way – teach you new skills and gain different perspectives.  A therapist listens to you without judgment and helps you strive for the goals that you have for yourself.  Furthermore, therapy is completely confidential, so you don’t have to worry about others knowing your situation thus, avoiding potential conflicts in your personal relationships.  Lastly, if your situation provokes a great deal of negative emotion, you have a trained professional to help you navigate these emotions in a healthy manner.

Why shouldn’t I just take medication?

Medication can be beneficial in treating certain symptoms, but medication alone cannot solve all issues. Medications can help manage symptoms to make it easier to work on therapeutic goals.  Our work therapy work together is designed to explore the root of the issue, dig deeper into thoughts and behaviors, and teach strategies that can help you accomplish your personal and/or relational goals.

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.  In general, the first few sessions are spent talking and getting to know one another, while I also assess your situation and your strengths and coping skills.  We will discuss what you would like to accomplish in therapy and together we will identify goals to work on in your therapy sessions.  I may also assign homework or reading assignments to be completed outside of sessions.

How long will it take?

Everyone’s circumstances are unique to them and the length of time therapy can take depends upon your specific goals, your level of commitment in attending scheduled therapy appointments and your completion of any homework or reading outside of appointments.

I want to get the most out of therapy. What can I do to help?

Your active participation and commitment is crucial to your success and in getting the most out of your sessions.  The work you do outside of sessions will greatly contribute to your success within sessions.  By consistently practicing the newly learned skills and behaviors in your time outside of sessions, you will see quicker results in from your efforts.