I’ve never talked to a mental health therapist. I pride myself in handling things on my own. Aren’t people who go to therapy weak?
Not at all. Everyone needs help now and then. The strengths that you’ve used before may simply need a few tweaks to tackle your current challenge. Perhaps this problem feels overwhelming and is making it difficult to access your go-to strengths. In our work together, I’ll help you identify what those strengths are and how to implement them to successfully address what is happening now.
What’s the difference between talking to you or my best friend or family?
A mental health professional can help you approach your situation in a new way – teach you new skills, help you gain different perspectives, listen to you without judgment or expectations, and help you listen to yourself. Furthermore, professional therapy is completely confidential. You won’t have to worry about others “knowing your business.” Also, if your situation provokes a great deal of negative emotion, there is the risk that once you are feeling better you could start avoiding your trusted friend or family member so you aren’t reminded of this difficult time in your life.
Why shouldn’t I just take medication?
Medication alone cannot solve all issues. Finding the right medication can require trial-and-error as everyone’s chemistry is unique and what works for one person may not work for another. Additionally, medication treats the symptoms, but does not resolve the underlying cause. Our work together is customized to explore the root of the matter, dig deep into your issues 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.
How long will it take?
Everyone’s circumstances are unique, and the length of time depends on your goals, your commitment, and the factors motivating you to seek therapy in the first place.
I want to get the most out of therapy. What can I do to help?
Excellent question! Your dedication to getting the most out of your sessions will greatly enhance your therapy. Active participation and resolve are 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 catalyze your personal growth and development.
My partner and I are having problems. Should we be in individual counseling or come together?
If one of you is already a client, I can recommend a couple’s therapist for the two of you. It is not helpful to move from individual into couple’s work with the same therapist because of potential trust issues. If our initial work is with both of you, and one of you would like to continue in individual sessions, I could continue to work with one of you and refer the other to a colleague.