What’s the difference between talking to you or my best friend or family?
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 (except for certain situations involving harm to yourself or others where I may need to make a report). You won’t have to worry about others “knowing my business.”
How long will it take?
Unfortunately, this is not possible to say in a general FAQs page. 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 change, 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?
I am so glad you are dedicated to getting the most out of your sessions. Your active participation and dedication is crucial to your success. After all, we only see each other for one (rarely two) sessions a week. It’s the work you do outside of our sessions that will really help you see the changes you desire in your life. Sometimes I use workbooks, assign homework, and recommend reading. This is especially when I work with relationships.
My partner and I are having problems. Should we be in individual counseling or come together?
If you are concerned about your relationship(s), I strongly encourage you all to come in. If a partner is unable or unwilling to come in, then I will be happy to see you alone. Often if I am working with relationships, it is helpful for the individuals involved to be doing their own therapy.
What about medication?
Medication may sometimes be effective to treat your symptoms by reducing their intensity and frequency. This can help you work on the issues underlying your presenting issues. I am not able to prescribe medication, but I may recommend that you explore it. I can work collaboratively with your prescriber if needed.