How can therapy help me?
There are many long lasting benefits from participating in Psychotherapy. Therapists can provide support, problem-solving skills and enhanced coping strategies for a wide range of issues that you are struggling with. Therapists can be a tremendous asset to help you manage personal growth, interpersonal relationships, marital and family issues and the stresses of daily life. Therapists can provide a fresh perspective on a difficult problem and direct clients to new and healthier solutions. Therapists help clients “get unstuck” by learning new skills, improving self-esteem and communication skills, and changing old behavior patterns by developing new ones.
I’ve never talked to anyone. I’m used to handling things on my own. Aren’t people who go to therapy weak?
Not at all. Everyone goes through challenging situations in life, and while you may have successfully navigated through other difficulties in life there is nothing wrong with seeking out extra support when you need it. In fact, therapy is for people who have enough self-awareness to realize that they need a helping hand, and that is to be admired. You are taking responsibility by accepting where you are in life and making a commitment to change the situation by seeking therapy.
What’s the difference between talking to you or my best friend or family?
There is a significant difference between talking to a professionally trained experienced Psychotherapist versus talking to a supportive friend or family member who can only provide you with support. A Psychotherapist can help you approach your situation in a new way– teach you new coping skills, gain different perspectives, listen to you without judgment or expectations, and help you listen to yourself and gain personal insight and awareness. Furthermore, therapy is completely confidential. You won’t have to worry about others “knowing your 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. Everyone needs support from our friends and family especially during difficult times but support can never be considered as a replacement for professional help.
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.
Medication can be effective and is sometimes needed in conjunction with therapy if recommended. We will discuss and explore this option together.
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 unique and different depending on each individual. I tailor my therapeutic approach to your specific needs and goals.
How long will it take?
Unfortunately, this is not possible to say in a general FAQs page. Everyone’s circumstances are unique therefore the length of time therapy can take for 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?
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 a session a week. It’s the work you do outside of our sessions that will really help you see your personal growth and development. The benefits you obtain from therapy will depend on how well you use the process and put into practice what you learn.