How does therapy work?

The therapy process is different for everyone. I usually start by learning more about your concerns, needs, and personality. Then, both you and I will decide if we are a good fit. If we work together, we'll create a plan to address your issues.

I usually hold sessions weekly at first to build momentum towards change in therapy. This also allows us to create a bond of trust and rapport. There is no set length of time or number of sessions. Therapy can sometimes be brief and sometimes it can last for months or years. You will experience highs and lows throughout the therapeutic process, which is completely normal. You will experience vulnerability as you conduct self-exploration and introspection. You must be ready to open up, be authentic and genuine, be honest, and be open to try new things. After all, most people come to therapy because what they are doing isn’t working.

Does what we talk about in therapy remain confidential?

Confidentiality is one of the most important components between a client and therapist. Successful therapy requires a high degree of trust with highly sensitive subject matter that is usually not discussed anywhere but the therapist’s office. My confidentiality disclosure agreement is provided in the informed consent that you will sign prior to therapy. This states that what you discuss in session will not be shared with anyone. Sometimes you may want me to share information or give an update to someone (such as another healthcare professional), but by law I cannot release this information without obtaining your written permission. State law and professional ethics require me to maintain confidentiality except for the following situations:

• Suspected past or present abuse or neglect of children, adults, and elders to the authorities, including Child Protective Services and law enforcement, based on information provided by the client or collateral sources.
  
• If the therapist has reason to suspect the client is seriously in danger of harming themselves or has threatened to harm another person.
  

How can therapy help me?

A number of benefits are possible from participating in therapy. Therapists can provide support, problem-solving skills, and coping strategies. Therapists can offer alternative perspectives that you may not be able to reach on your own. Many people also find that counselors can help people grow, improve relationships, and manage the difficulties of daily life. 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
  
• Improving communications and listening skills
  
• Increasing self-advocacy
  
• Changing old behavior patterns and developing new ones
  
• Discovering new ways to solve problems
  
• Improving your self-esteem and boosting self-confidence
  

Are you judgmental?

I try my darnedest not to judge anyone and am very vigilant in examining my own biases. I recognize that everyone has unique experiences, histories, choices, etc. and I have no right to judge anyone for those things. My goal is to help ensure you are making healthy choices for you.

What is your approach to therapy?

I help you connect current difficulties to past experiences because who we are today is a result of all of our past experiences. In this present moment, we get to decide how those experiences dictate our present and future. My goal is to drill down to and address the roots of your issues and help you recover and heal. I’ll work with you throughout therapy and adjust to your needs and personality. You don’t adjust to the way I do therapy - I adjust how I do therapy to you.