I’ve never talked to anyone. I’m used to handling things on my own.
Everyone needs help now and then. Perhaps this problem feels overwhelming and is making it difficult to access your past strengths. In our work together, I’ll help you identify new strengths and to reconnect with those that will serve you best in your healing.
What’s the difference between talking to you or my best friend or family?
However well meaning, friends & family are not clinically trained and are not neutral. Therefore, they can unintentionally cause you harm by offering unskilled advice. A mental health professional can help you see your situation from a neutral perspective, teach you new skills, listen to you without judgments, and help you trust yourself. Furthermore, therapy is completely confidential. You won’t have to worry about others “knowing my business.” Finally, 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 does treat the symptoms. Our work together is designed to explore the root of the issue, and teach strategies that can help you accomplish your personal and/or relational goals.
Medication is most effective in conjunction with therapy and a solid social support. system.
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. You will need to be open to learning new skills, being honest & forthcoming about your past and your current issues , and practicing what you learn outside of therapy sessions.
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?
Your active participation and dedication is crucial to your success. It’s the work you do outside of our sessions that will really help you see your personal growth and development. Try your best to do the homework you are given each week so that you can make progress in each session.
My partner and I are having relationship problems. Should we be in individual counseling or couples together?
I would initially work with both of you together in couples therapy.. I often then need to see each member of the couple individually to deal with any untreated trauma or childhood issues. I then bring the two of you back together for more couples work. It is not customary to transition from individual into couple’s work with the same therapist because of potential alliance issues.