What should I expect?

The first few sessions will involve an assessment in which I’ll be asking you a lot of questions to learn about you, what you hope to accomplish in therapy, and to gain a broad understand of your background as well as what you are currently struggling with. I’ll also try to understand what thoughts and behaviors may get in the way of you living the life you want to live. Although there will be a lot to cover, I prefer for our sessions to be interactive and have an informal feel to them, so you can get to know me as well. I will also make sure to provide a lot fo time to answer questions you may have.

What’s unique to how you practice?

I approach therapy in a solution focused manner, however we will go at a pace that feels comfortable for you. Your sessions will have an informal and safe feel. I also tend to incorporate humor when appropriate. I 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. You will also be providing me feedback; what you like and what you don’t like, and you’ll always be privy to what we are working on as well as your progress.

Why shouldn’t I just take medication?

Medication can be effective but it alone cannot solve all issues. Sometimes medication is needed in conjunction with counseling. Our work together is designed to explore and unpack the problems you are experiencing and expand on your strengths that can help you accomplish your personal goals.

How does it work? What do I have to do in sessions?

The most important thing is that you bring yourself, and what I mean by this, is your authentic self- in other words, that you ‘show up’ regardless of how you’re feeling. I will also encourage you to practice skills that you’re learning outside of session. We’ll work together to create behavioral experiments, thought records or reading; “exercises” you’ll engage in between sessions to continue to build your emotional “muscles.”

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 counseling 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 counseling in the first place. I do encourage my clients to put the most they can between sessions, as research shows improvement is more rapid this way.

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 will be crucial to your success.