What ages do you work with?
I work with adults only.
I’ve never talked to anyone. I’m used to handling things on my own. Aren’t people who go to therapy weak? How can therapy help me?
There is a difference between handling your own problems and actually working through and resolving problematic patterns that seem to show up again and again. This is the place to discover and resolve core issues, to make fundamental discoveries and changes to help you reach your potential. Therapy is for people who have enough self-awareness to know they need some extra support. You are not weak. You are taking responsibility. Here you will have the opportunity to explore yourself and what’s concerning you in a confidential, non-judgmental space. A place where you can be you and gain some clarity about what is really going on and develop strategies for managing these issues.
What’s the difference between talking to you or my best friend or family?
The difference is between someone who can do something, and someone who has the training and experience to do that same thing professionally. 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 my 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.
What is therapy with you like?
The first session of therapy here is called the intake and it is where I gather a comprehensive history about you, complete some assessments to better understand your concerns, complete necessary paperwork, and begin to get to know each other. Early on in our meetings we will explore your goals and develop a plan of how to help you attain these. If possible, it is optimum to meet weekly, at least at first. Between our meetings there will be action plans for you to work on therapy goals outside of the office setting. Meetings are 50 minutes and we will remain focused on your objectives and assure that we are on the right track. Therapy is a very collaborative process and is driven by your needs and goals. You will get more results from therapy if you are an active participant in the process.
Does what we talk about in therapy remain confidential?
Absolutely. This is one of the most important components between a client and therapist. When you are in session this is your space. I do have some specific ethical and legal exceptions to confidentiality, however. If you make threats to commit suicide or seriously harm yourself, if you make threats to harm someone else, or if you report abuse of a child, elderly person, or vulnerable adult, I have a duty to divulge information to the proper authorities to protect you or the person in potential danger. Other than those exceptions, however, our work and dialogue together is strictly confidential. If you want information shared with another person, such as someone on your healthcare team, I must receive your written permission.
Can I feel safe in your practice regardless of my race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, gender identity, or religious or non-religious affiliation?
This is an affirming and friendly space for all. You are safe being you here.
Is meeting online as effective as meeting in person?
Absolutely. Both experiences are very similar. Research shows the outcomes of online therapy are comparable to outcomes of office-based therapy. To make this a successful option for you, you’ll need to have equipment that meets the adequate technological requirements and a suitable meeting space on your end that is quiet, private, and free of distractions.
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. However, for some people medication can be effective and is sometimes needed in conjunction with therapy.