Question 1

I’ve never talked to anyone. I’m used to handling things on my own. Aren’t people who go to therapy weak?

Accepted Answer

Not at all. People who ask for help know when they need it and have the ability to reach out. Everyone needs help now and then. You already have some strengths that you’ve used before, and for whatever reason, they aren’t working right now.  Perhaps this problem feels overwhelming and is making it difficult to access your past strengths. In our work together, we will help you identify what those strengths are and how to implement them again in what is happening now.

Question 2

What’s the difference between talking to you or my best friend or family?

Accepted Answer

The difference is between someone who can do something, and someone who has the training and experience to do that same thing professionally. A mental health professional can help you approach your situation in an objective 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, if you’ve been confiding in a friend or family member, there is the risk that once you are feeling better you could start avoiding that person so you aren’t reminded of this difficult time in your life.

Question 3

Why shouldn’t I just take medication?

Accepted Answer

Medication alone cannot solve all issues. What medication does is treat the symptoms. Our work together is designed to explore the root of the issue, dig deep into your behavior and teach strategies that can help you accomplish your personal and/or relational goals.
Medication can be effective and is sometimes needed in conjunction with therapy.

Question 4

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

Accepted Answer

Because each person has different issues and goals for therapy, therapy will be different depending on the individual. We tailor our therapeutic approach to your specific needs, so client feedback is very appreciated. The main treatment modalities used in session are Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). These treatment approaches a mainly skills-based and mindfulness-driven, and utilize treatment assignments and hands-on tools to implement right from the start. Overall, therapy works in that it teaches you how to deal with the difficult thoughts and feelings so that these are not taking over your life.

Question 5

How long will it take?

Accepted Answer

Unfortunately, this is not possible to say in a general FAQs page. Everyone’s circumstances are unique to them and the length of time therapy 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 therapy in the first place. Some people utilize therapy for short-term purposes, others enjoy therapy on a long-term basis and for maintenance sessions.

Question 6

I want to get the most out of therapy. What can I do to help?

Accepted Answer

We are 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. That being said, your therapist may recommend some treatment assignments such as journaling, exposures, readings, or worksheets for you to complete outside of session. In the therapy room, your willingness to explore and participate will be the number one key in determining treatment effectiveness.

Question 7

My partner and I are having problems. Should we be in individual counseling or come together?

Accepted Answer

If you are concerned about your relationship, and you would both like to see a therapist, you could work simultaneously with a couple’s counselor and a different individual counselor. It is not helpful to move from individual into couple’s work (or vice versa) with the same therapist because of potential trust and bias issues.

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