FAQs
Is therapy right for me?
If you’re in distress, that first phone call to a therapist can be scary…and it’s a courageous step toward taking responsibility for your healing. Whether you’re stuck in long-standing challenges (anxiety, depression, trauma, distress with food and body, relationship ruts) or struggling with life transitions (launching, parenthood, divorce, work changes, loss of any kind), I can offer support and strategies to help you navigate the rough waters.
If you’re feeling satisfied about your life and relationships but want to take things to the next level, a decision to pursue therapy can be an exciting commitment to yourself as you seek your highest potential.
If you’re ready to step into your power and make lasting change in your life, therapy may be right for you.
What can I expect in a therapy session?
In the first few sessions, I’ll ask about your challenges, strengths and goals; learn about your history; and offer a road map for our work together. In most cases, we’ll schedule weekly sessions. Therapy can be short-term, focusing on a specific issue, or longer-term, addressing more complex issues or ongoing personal growth. Depending on your needs, I may offer feedback, teach you new strategies, or suggest reading and homework. I may offer speicalized treatments such as EMDR, or recommend adding other professionals (e.g. a physician or nutrition therapist) to your treatment team.
Because you’re the most important member of your team, I will invite you to be an active participant in your own process. I’ll ask you to think about our work and integrate it into your life between sessions. When we meet again, we’ll celebrate your progress and explore the challenges that remain.
I understand psychotherapy is a major commitment of time and money, so I will check in regularly about your progress and how you feel our work is going; based on your feedback, I will make adjustments as needed.
What benefits can I expect from working with a therapist?
Sometimes, just having someone there to listen is helpful. Psychotherapy can offer that and much more, including:
- Relief from anxiety, including post-traumatic stress
- A relaxed and comfortable relationship with food and body
- Harmony in troubled relationships
- Insight into destructive patterns and practical strategies for change
- Greater confidence, balance and well-being
- New ideas to manage anger, depression and moods
- A compass for navigating life’s obstacles
Is therapy confidential?
In general, the law protects the confidentiality of communications between a client and a psychotherapist. Information is not disclosed without written permission. However, there are exceptions to this rule including:
Suspected child abuse or dependent adult/elder abuse. The therapist is required by law to report this to the appropriate authorities immediately.
If a client is threatening bodily harm to others. The therapist must notify police and inform the intended victim(s).
If a client intends to harm themself. The therapist will make every effort to enlist their cooperation in insuring their safety. If they do not cooperate, further measures may be taken without their permission in order to ensure their safety.