I’m used to handling things on my own. Aren’t people who go to therapy weak?
Not at all. Everyone needs help now and then. People who ask for help know when they need it and have the ability to reach out. You already have some strengths that you have used before. Perhaps the problems you are facing currently feel overwhelming and it is more difficult for you to access your past strengths. In our work together, I’ll help you identify your past strengths and develop new ones so that you can effectively use them in dealing with your present circumstances.
What’s the difference between talking to you or my best friend or family?
Therapy is completely confidential. You won’t have to worry about others “knowing my business.” Also, your situation may evoke a great deal of negative emotions in you and important people in your life; 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. Furthermore, a mental health professional can listen to you without judgment or expectations, can help you better listen to yourself and help you gain different perspectives, can teach you new skills, and help you approach your situation in new ways.
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 and the length of therapy depends on your goals, your desire for personal development, your commitment, and the factors that are driving you to seek therapy in the first place. Unfortunately, it is not possible to estimate the duration of your therapy in a general FAQs page.
I want to get the most out of therapy. What can I do?
I am so glad you are motivated to get the most out of your sessions. Your dedication and consistent active participation are crucial to your success. After all, we only see each other for a session a week. It is your preparation for our sessions and the work you do outside of our sessions that will really help you achieve your goals and 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.