FAQ


How can therapy help me?
A number of benefits are available from participating in therapy. 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 creative blocks. Many people also find that therapy can be a tremendous asset for managing personal growth, interpersonal relationships, family concerns, marriage issues, and the struggles 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

Do I really need therapy?  I can usually handle my problems.   
Everyone goes through challenging situations in life, and while you may have successfully navigated 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 are in life and making a commitment to change your 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. 

Why do people go to therapy and how do I know if it is right for me?
People have many different motivations for coming to psychotherapy. Some may be going through a major life transition (unemployment, divorce, new job, etc.), or are not handling stressful circumstances well. Some people need assistance managing a range of other issues such as low self-esteem, depression, anxiety, attachment issues, or relationship problems. Therapy can provide some much needed encouragement and help with skills to get them through these periods. Others may be at a point where they are ready to learn more about themselves or want to be more effective with their goals in life. In short, people seeking psychotherapy are ready to face challenges and are hopeful that they can make positive, lasting changes in their lives. 

What is therapy like? 
Because each person has different issues and goals for treatment, therapy will be different depending on the individual. In general, you can expect to discuss events happening in your life, your personal history relevant to your issue, details about your family history (what you know--or don't know--can be equally meaningful) and any progress or new insights gained from previous therapy sessions. Depending on your specific needs, therapy can be short-term, for a specific issue, or longer-term, to deal with more difficult patterns or your desire for more personal development. It is most common to schedule regular, weekly sessions with your therapist so that working together feels safe and reliable. Some people find that several sessions a week is most effective. If that is something that appeals to you, we can discuss what that might look like. It is important to understand that you will get more results from therapy if you actively participate in the process.

What about medication vs. psychotherapy?   
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 progress. You can best achieve sustainable growth and a greater sense of well-being with an integrative approach to wellness. Working with your physician can help determine what's best for you, and in some cases a combination of medication and therapy is the right course of action. 

​Does what we talk about in therapy remain confidential?
Confidentiality is one of the most important components between a patient and psychotherapist. Successful therapy requires a high degree of trust with highly sensitive subject matter that is usually not discussed anywhere but the therapist's office. Every therapist should provide a written copy of their confidential disclosure agreement, and you can expect that what you discuss in session will not be shared with anyone. This is called “Informed Consent." Sometimes, however, you may want your therapist to share information or give an update to someone on your healthcare team (your physician, attorney), but by law your therapist cannot release this information without obtaining your written permission.
 
State law and professional ethics require therapists to maintain confidentiality except for in the following situations:
  • Suspected child abuse or dependent adult or elder abuse, as reported by patient or collateral sources, which therapists are required by law to report to the appropriate authorities immediately.
  • If a patient is threatening serious bodily harm to another person/s, the therapist must notify the police and inform the intended victim.
  • If a patient intends to harm themselves.