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Psychotherapy

Psychotherapy does not have to be as intimidating as it may sound, especially to the first time client. Psychotherapy is more commonly referred to as "therapy" or "counseling". The strength of psychotherapy is that it can be accessed for a variety of purposes. Meeting with an experienced therapist can provide a lifeline during periods of crisis or a support during difficult times.

Therapy can offer the space to explore options, create a deeper relationship, learn more about yourself, discover new ways of reacting or translating an event, seek support and understanding or just be a place to be heard.

There is evidence that states that those individuals who choose to seek therapy (often short-term) when faced with a difficult period in life, live fuller and more satisfying lives. This makes complete sense if thought of in terms of those persons knowing where and when to seek assistance likely carry that approach to other areas of their lives and are therefore less likely to let things fester. Dealing with an "issue" before it becomes a crisis is efficient and rewarding. Take control of your life!!

Of course, we frequently are asked to deal with urgent and crisis events that are beyond our control or we did not see coming. Psychotherapy provides the venue to learn new tools of coping.

I encourage you to never stop treating yourself well and to never stop learning!

FTQ's - aka: Frequently Thought Questions

1) If I think I need or want therapeutic services, am I crazy?

Not likely. It would be crazy NOT to seek help for a concern or problem.


2) Is the therapeutic relationship really confidential?

Yes. It is against State and Federal laws and a violation of the Code of Ethics for Marriage and Family therapists to divulge the identity of their clients let alone any clinical information. While there are exceptions to confidentiality, they are limited and generally based on the safety: such as child and elder abuse concerns.


3) How long will it take for me to feel relief? How long will I be in therapy?

There is no right answer to this. Length of treatment is as individual as the client. It is not uncommon for a client to enter therapy with one issue only to discover that they would really like to work another concern. Committment to the therapautic process and willing to be honest with yourself, generally support a more rewarding experience in therapy.


4) What if I don't like the therapist?

Not all client-therapist relationships are good matches. If you experience difficulty in this area, TALK to your therapist about it. Your therapist is there for YOU. You will not be hurting his/her feelings. There are many reasons why the relationship may not be working as you expected. Therapists have experience and expertise in a variety of areas, not in ALL areas. Some have different approaches to different concerns. Some clients experience resistance about addressing certain issues and use the therapist as an excuse not to and sometimes it is just not a good fit. Whatever the reason - DISCUSS IT! You deserve to be heard!