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FAQs
How do I know if I need counseling?
The decision to seek counseling is different for everyone. Some people may be in dire need and others just want someone who will genuinely listen to them talk about their frustrations and struggles.
It's time to seek counseling if:
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your struggles seem overwhelming
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you feel like you’ve been in a rut for a long time
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you’ve tried solving your problems and aren't having success
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you’re open to trying something different
I've tried therapy before and it didn't help. Why would this be any different?
Every therapy experience is different, it really is. From your relationship with the therapist to your motivation to work on issues and change certain behaviors, these can certainly influence your experience and what you perceive as helpful. Therapy works best when you’re open to it and willing to participate in your own healing.
How often will I/we need to come in?
I recommend weekly counseling in the beginning to build our relationship and create traction. When you feel like you’ve found more direction and stability and the tools we’ve been exploring are helping we can reduce sessions to every other week. I never want you to feel like you “have to” come in for therapy. Ultimately, we’re going to work together to decide what works best for you and achieving your goals.
How long will I need therapy?
It depends! For some people, a few sessions are enough to reach their short-term goals. For others, more time is needed to sort through challenging issues. And some people go in and out of therapy as circumstances allow. I regularly check in with my clients to see how you’re doing and reassess your goals.
What's the first session like?
The first session will begin with a review of my practice, confidentiality and mandated reporting, and the forms you filled out. It will also allow you to ask any questions you might have about the therapy process, working with me, my approach, etc. We’ll then review your intake form and talk about what you hope to gain from therapy. This first session will also allow you to see if you feel I’m a good fit for you and if we would work well together.
How do I know if the therapist is right for me?
Your therapist should make you feel validated. Your therapist should create a space that is comfortable, respectful, supportive, and safe allowing you to let your guard down and be as honest and open as possible. You should feel like you’re making progress, even if it seems difficult at times. Your therapist should collaborate with you, and challenge you to think and engage differently. She should question your assumptions and offer new or different ways of approaching problems and stress. After the first session, you should have a feeling if the therapist is right for you.
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Above all, trust your gut. You’ll know if it’s a good fit.