FAQs
I’ve never talked to anyone about my issues. I’m used to handling things on my own. Aren’t people who go to therapy weak?
Not at all. People who know when they need help and can ask for it are the strongest among us! It takes a lot of strength to allow yourself to be vulnerable. Everyone needs help now and then. You already have some strengths that you’ve used before, that for whatever reason, aren’t working right now. Perhaps the problem you’re facing feels overwhelming and is making it difficult to access your past strengths. In our work together, we can help you identify what those strengths are and how to implement them again in what is happening now.
Isn’t therapy for “crazy” people?
For starters, in our world, there is no “normal” and there is no “crazy.” Many people have a misconception that therapy is only for people who are struggling with more severe pathologies, issues or circumstances, but therapy can be helpful for anyone! Think of it as a space for you to unravel and untangle your thoughts so that you can be the most effective player in your life that you can be. They say hindsight is 20/20. With therapy, you strengthen your foresight so you are not viewing your life through your rear-view mirror with regrets, but rather looking forward and feeling proud of your decisions and interactions with others.
What’s the difference between talking to you or my best friend or family?
Well, for one, we can insure that we will never bring up any of your business at a family function or a friend’s wedding! Anything that you say to us stays between us. The only time confidentiality is breached in treatment is if you give us permission to do so, or at some point become a danger to yourself or others. At that point we would breach confidentiality in order to get you the appropriate services needed at the time of crisis.
On top of that, we are professionally trained and have the appropriate experience to help you, whereas a family member or friend may not. We 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. 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. While we will always hold you accountable, we will never hold anything against you the way someone close to you in your life may.
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. These skills will last you a lifetime.
Medication can be effective and is sometimes needed in conjunction with therapy.
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 different depending on the individual. We tailor our therapeutic approach to your specific needs.
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 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?
We are so glad that 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.