Let's start at the very beginning
I think the most frequently asked question should be not be why you would go into therapy but why the heck wouldn't you? In our American Culture we pride ourselves, almost obsess, about being on top of the learning curve in every aspect of life. We consider ourselves to be the best, brightest, and most competent in just about every area. We brag about having the biggest degrees, licenses, newest gadgets, more buttons to push and electronic devices to play with. With the obsession we have in learning all there is and having the best and coolest of everything it blows my mind that many adults have never worked with a therapist or gone to counseling! If knowledge is power then why not go to an expert to learn all there is to learn about the very thing that makes you human = EMOTIONS. Emotions are at the core of every relationship you have in life including yourself and with every single person you will ever deal with in your entire life. Learning all about the world and language of emotions baby will empower you to live a rich full human experience here on earth; that my friend is the object of this game called life.
Seeking out therapy is an individual choice. There are many reasons why people come to see me. Sometimes it is to deal with long-standing psychological issues, or problems with anxiety or depression. Other times it is in response to unexpected changes in one’s life such as a divorce or work transition. Many seek my advice and counsel as they pursue their own personal exploration and growth. Working together I can help provide insight, support, and new strategies for all types of life challenges. I can help you address many types of issues including depression, anxiety, conflict, grief, stress management, body-image issues, and general life transition. If you are interested in getting the most out of your life by taking responsibility, creating greater self-awareness, and working towards change in your life I can help you.
Everyone goes through challenging situations in life, and while you may have successfully navigated through other difficulties you’ve faced, there’s nothing wrong with seeking out extra support when you need it. In fact, therapy is for people who have enough self-awareness to realize they need a helping hand, and that is something to be admired. You are taking responsibility by accepting where you’re at in life and making a commitment to change the situation by seeking therapy. Therapy provides long-lasting benefits and support, giving you the tools you need to avoid triggers, re-direct damaging patterns, and overcome whatever challenges you face.
A number of benefits are available from participating in psychotherapy. I 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 creative blocks. Many people also find that my help 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:
- Attaining a better understanding of yourself, your goals and values
- Developing skills for improving your relationships
- Finding resolution to the issues or concerns that led you to seek therapy
- Learning new ways to cope with stress and anxiety
- Managing anger, grief, depression, and other emotional pressures
- Improving communications and listening skills
- Changing old behavior patterns and developing new ones
- Discovering new ways to solve problems in your family or marriage
- Improving your self-esteem and boosting self-confidence
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 45 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 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:
Medication is a very serious matter and not to be taken lightly. Honestly I try to help my clients build a strategy where we can stabilize and supplement their lives in every way possible before we consider medication. However in some cases a combination of medication and therapy is the right course of action. Working with your medical doctor you can determine what’s best for you. It is well established that the long-term solution to mental and emotional problems and the pain they cause cannot be solved solely by medication. Instead of just treating the symptom, therapy addresses the cause of our distress and the behavior patterns that curb our progress.
You can best achieve sustainable growth and a greater sense of well-being with an integrative approach to wellness.
If you choose to go through insurance you will want to give your insurance company a call. You will find their phone number on the back of your insurance card. Give them my name and ask to verify that I’m a provider in your network and see what your deductible is or what your co pay is that is due at each session. Please let me know what you learn from your insurance company?
You might also want to ask the following questions:
For more information on rates and insurance information, click HERE
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.
There are some exceptions required by law to this rule. Exceptions include:
- Suspected child abuse or dependant adult or elder abuse. The therapist is required to report this to the appropriate authorities immediately.
- If a client is threatening serious bodily harm to another person. The therapist is required to notify the police.
- If a client intends to harm himself or herself. The therapist will make every effort to work with the individual to ensure their safety. However, if an individual does not cooperate, additional measures may need to be taken.
