FAQs

I’ve never been to therapy.  What happens during the time I am there?

There is no “one size fits all” approach to therapy and each session may be a little different depending on what is going on in your life. And, although there are many different ways to help someone, the most important thing is that you feel comfortable with me.  It takes time to build trust and rapport.  During the first couple of sessions I will get to know you and explore further what is concerning to you. Together we will set some treatment goals. These goals act as a road map to ensure you are moving in the direction you want.

Each week, we will have a “check-in” to see if there are any pressing issues you would like to process and we will add that to our session agenda.  There will be some tools that will be used during our sessions to help assess how you are doing. I also incorporate different approaches that include mindfulness, body-based activities, and other skills activities.

I have worked with many clients of different faiths, gender and sexual identities, and cultures. I strive to have an inclusive, trauma and culturally- sensitive environment.

We will periodically review how you are progressing through your goals.  There may be some activities you will do between sessions to help build skills, or further process what is happening.

Our sessions are focused on you and we collaborate on ways to help you become the very best version of yourself.

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

Family members, while often well-meaning, may not always be able to support you in the way you need to be supported. In some cases, they may cause further harm or increase your symptoms and challenges. I not only have the academic training, but have also worked thousands of hours under the supervision of an experienced clinician as part of my requirements to become licensed.  I 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. 

Counseling is completely confidential. You won’t have to worry about others being aware of your personal details and concerns.  And, if your situation causes you a great deal of negative emotion, and 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.

Will I need to take medication?

I am not a medical professional and although I will determine a mental health diagnosis, I am not legally allowed to prescribe medication.  However, if I believe your specific symptoms might benefit from an appropriate medication, I can offer referrals to medical professionals who can discuss medication options with you.

Medication can be effective but it alone cannot solve all issues. For some individuals, taking medication can positively impact our work together in therapy. The choice to take- or not take- medication is completely up to you. 

How long are therapy sessions?

Typically, each session runs for approximately 55 minutes once a week.  I find this amount of time and frequency is usually needed to enable you to fully benefit from therapy. However, there are some clients who prefer 30 or 45 minute sessions or less frequent sessions.  We can discuss your specific needs during your initial consultation as well as make adjustments as needed over the course of treatment.

How many sessions will I need to address my concerns?

Everyone’s circumstances are unique to them. The length of time counseling 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 counseling in the first place.

What happens if I am just not “feeling it” with you or with therapy?

A strong therapeutic relationship takes time to build. Ideally we would have about three sessions together to be certain we are a good fit.

At any point during our time together you do not feel I am providing what you need, I encourage you to share your concerns with me.  If you wish to terminate sessions, you may do so.  If you want to continue with someone else, I can help you identify a potential therapist who might be more aligned with what you are looking for.