Common Questions

Why do people seek therapy?

People come into therapy for many reasons. Some need to respond to unexpected changes in their lives, while others seek self-exploration and personal growth. When coping skills are overwhelmed by guilt, doubt, anxiety, or despair, therapy can help. Therapy can provide support, problem-solving skills, and enhanced coping for issues such as depression, anxiety, lack of confidence, relationship troubles, unresolved childhood issues, bereavement, spiritual conflicts, stress management, body image issues, and creative blocks. People seeking psychotherapy are willing to take responsibility for their actions, work towards self-change and create greater awareness in their lives.

  
What can I expect in a therapy session?

During sessions you are expected to talk about the primary concerns and issues in your life. A session lasts one hour, but some people request longer sessions. Usually weekly sessions are best. Some people who are in crisis or extreme distress need more than one session per week, at least until the crisis passes. During the time between sessions it is beneficial to think about and process what was discussed. At times, you may be asked to take certain actions outside of the therapy sessions, such as reading a relevant book or keeping records. For therapy to "work," you must be an active participant, both in and outside of the therapy sessions. 

What benefits can I expect from working with a therapist?

A number of benefits are available from participating in psychotherapy. Often it is helpful just to know that someone understands. Therapy can provide a fresh perspective on a difficult problem or point you in the direction of a solution. Many people find therapy to be a tremendous asset to managing personal growth, interpersonal relationships, family concerns, and the hassles of daily life. The benefits you obtain from therapy depend on how well you use the process and put into practice what you learn. Some of the benefits available from therapy include:

  • Attaining a better understanding of yourself and your personal goals and values
  • Developing skills for improving your relationships
  • Finding resolution to the issues or concerns that led you to seek therapy
  • Find new ways to cope with stress and anxiety
  • Managing anger, depression, and other emotional pressures
  • Improving communications skills - learn how to listen to others, and have others listen to you
  • Getting "unstuck" from unhealthy patterns - breaking old behaviors and develop new ones
  • Discovering new ways to solve problems
  • Improving your self-esteem and boosting self-confidence

Are there risks to coming to therapy?



Yes. Therapy is a process of opening up to yourself. You may experience an exacerbation of symptoms and uncomfortable feelings when we begin talking. Therapy works like this: you bring what you know and together we start opening doors to thoughts and feeling and memories you might have that take you deeper into who you are and uncovering what is causing your difficulties. I might ask you to try new ways of communicating with your friends and family. This might surprise everybody and cause changes in relationships that you didn't expect.  New information is often hard. You might begin to feel angry about things that you have not allowed yourself to really feel angry about before. That may be disorienting. And you might feel disappointed that the way to feeling better is not more direct. You may even feel angry with me for not "fixing you" quickly. That is okay and expected and part of the therapy. 

 What if I don't know what my goals are for therapy?

If you aren't sure what your goals are for therapy, our first task is to figure that out. It may take several sessions before a direction is clarified. During the course of therapy your goals may change. However, establishing a direction for therapy will help you get the most out of the experience.

Is therapy confidential?

In general, the law protects the confidentiality of all communications between a client and a psychotherapist. Information is not disclosed without written permission. However, there are number of exceptions to this rule. Exceptions include:

  • Suspected child abuse or dependant adult or elder abuse. The therapist is required by law to report this to the appropriate authorities immediately.
  • If a client is threatening serious bodily harm to another person/s. The therapist must notify the police and inform the intended victim.
  • If a client intends to harm himself or herself. The therapist will make every effort to enlist their cooperation in insuring their safety. If they do not cooperate, further measures may be taken without their permission in order to ensure their safety.

How do I know if you are the right therapist for me?


You can't know just by reading about me.  You are welcome to come for a reduced fee consultation  during which you may ask me questions, tell me about what your concerns are and see how well we fit from there. It may be that a few sessions are necessary for you to know whether you want to continue. At no time are you obligated to continue working with me. 

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