I’ve never talked to anyone. I’m used to handling things on my own. Aren’t people who go to therapy weak?
Women who are courageous enough to ask for help are the bravest people I know. Everyone needs a little help now and then, and I believe that each and every one of us can benefit from the therapeutic experience. It’s often way easier for us to help a friend or family member, but not so easy to find our own solutions, because we are just too close to the troubling situation. Therapy clears space and provides perspective, so that we can see what’s going on more clearly and come up with a collaborative plan for how to break free.
What’s the difference between talking to you or my best friend or family?
My years of training in both the science and art of therapy allows me a unique perspective on what might be helpful for you throughout your healing journey. A mental health professional 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. Furthermore, therapy is completely confidential. You won’t have to worry about others “knowing my business.” Lastly, if your situation provokes a great deal of negative emotion, I see this as beneficial to your growth, and I know just how to help you navigate this.
Why shouldn’t I just take medication?
Science tells us that medication works best when combined with therapy. Simply put, medication often addresses symptoms of an underlying issue that can only be uncovered via talking it out. Our work together is designed to explore the root of the issue, dig deep, and teach strategies that can help you accomplish your personal and/or relational goals.
Medication can be beneficial in elevating mood and/or reducing anxiety, so that our work together can be even more effective.
How does it work? What do I have to do in sessions?
I generally begin by simply getting to know what it’s like to be you as we start to form a trusting and respectful therapeutic bond. I invite you to set the pace and decide what issues are most important for us to address. I then provide direction inspired by my expertise and training and promote the use of your intuition as we navigate the path of healing. Over time, we lean on our therapeutic relationship as we explore your history, your hang-ups, and navigate your present-moment emotional experience. Through this process, you will discover your own worthiness & power as you experience and then let go of negative feelings & beliefs.
How long will it take?
Personal and spiritual growth are ongoing processes. As time goes on, healing becomes more complete and peace and fulfillment begin to run the show. Some clients decide that therapy is complete once they feel better, and others like to continue on toward greater and greater levels of meaning and awakening. In general, I believe that there is always more work to do and beauty to discover. I cannot predict how your unique journey will unfold. However, life often becomes significantly more manageable within a few months.
I want to get the most out of therapy. What can I do to help?
I am so glad 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.
My partner and I are having problems. Should we be in individual counseling or come together?
It takes two to tango. Relationships can be complicated and tricky, so I think it’s wonderful that you want to work on your part of the dynamic. If you are concerned about your relationship, I would love to work with you individually to help you build tools to be a more loving partner, and to hone in on your desires & needs within your romantic life. After all, we must address the relationship you have with yourself, before we can work on your relationship with others.