Frequently Asked QuestionsWhat is therapy like?
Every therapy session is unique and caters to each individual and their specific goals. It is standard for therapists to discuss the primary issues and concerns in your life during therapy sessions. It is common to schedule a series of weekly sessions, where each session lasts around forty five minutes. Therapy can be short-term, focusing on a specific issue, or longer-term, addressing more complex issues or ongoing personal growth. There may be times when you are asked to take certain actions outside of the therapy sessions, such as reading a relevant book or keeping records to track certain behaviors. It is important to process what has been discussed and integrate it into your life between sessions. For therapy to be most effective you must be an active participant, both during and between the sessions. People seeking psychotherapy are willing to take responsibility for their actions, work towards self-change and create greater awareness in their lives. Here are some things you can expect out of therapy:
Is therapy for me? People come to psychotherapy for a variety of reasons. Some seek help because they are feeling anxious or depressed or recently suffered a loss. Some come to feel better about themselves or want to feel more fulfilled in their everyday lives. Others come for guidance/support regarding self esteem, divorce and/or job related stress. Some seek help in an effort to support their teenager. Everyone goes through challenging situations in life , there's nothing wrong with seeking out extra support when you need it. When you are in physical pain, you go to the doctor to find out what is causing it. Emotional discomfort deserves equal attention. By beginning therapy you are taking responsibility by accepting where you're at in life and making a commitment to change the situation. How can therapy help me? A number of benefits are available from participating in psychotherapy. Therapists can provide support, problem-solving skills, and enhanced coping strategies for issues such as depression, anxiety, relationship troubles, unresolved childhood issues, grief, stress management, body image issues, and adolescent issues. Many people also find that therapists can be a tremendous asset to managing personal growth, interpersonal relationships, family concerns, marriage issues, and the hassles of daily life. Therapists can provide a fresh perspective on a difficult problem or point you in the direction of a solution. 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:
How long will I be in therapy? The length of therapy varies upon the individual. Some come to therapy to focus on one issue and may only be in therapy for a brief period, often as short as a few months or twelve sessions. Others may come to therapy for reasons that may include deeper explorations and delving into the past which could take several months to years. When will I start to see the effects of therapy? This depends on several factors which include: the reason you came to therapy, your commitment to therapy and your active participation between sessions. Clients that benefit most from therapy are actively involved in their treatment, both in and out of sessions. Being active during your session, means being open and honest with your therapist and willing to change. Being active outside of sessions means applying what you have learned in therapy to your everyday life. This may include the use of a diary, reading of a certain book, doing relaxation exercises…etc. if you feel you are not seeing results quick enough through therapy, I urge you to discuss this with me during sessions. What can I expect at my first visit? Do I need to bring anything? On your first visit you may feel, excited, fearful, hopeful, happy, sad, or a whole range of emotions. Many clients report that their first session was the hardest and after that it got easier. During the first session you can expect to give a brief personal or family history. The therapist will ask you what brought you to therapy as well as what you want to change and/or work on. You may even begin to develop some goals for yourself or your child. During the first session you will want to ask the therapist any questions about treatment you may have. You want to feel comfortable working with your therapist and during the first session you will see if there is a “good fit” between you and the therapist. Any paperwork that you were required to fill out will also be reviewed and discussed during the initial session. Please make sure you bring all required forms (See Forms Tab) and that they are filled out entirely and accurately. I will be happy to address any questions or concerns you may have regarding the paperwork during our initial visit. You should also bring your insurance card to the first session. Is therapy confidential? In general, the law protects the confidentiality of all communications between a client and psychotherapist. No information is disclosed without prior written permission from the client. However, there are some exceptions required by law to this rule. Exceptions include:
Confidentiality will be explained and discussed thoroughly during the initial therapy session. What about medication? In some cases therapy along with medication is the right course of treatment. I am not a medical doctor and therefore cannot prescribe medications. However, if at any time during your treatment you feel that medication will benefit you, I am able to offer referrals to Board Certified Psychiatrists. |