FAQs

Why should I be in therapy?

Everyone needs help now and then. If you feel stuck, confused, or overwhelmed, why not speak with me (or another therapist) with the specialized training to help you through these difficult times?

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

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. I don't have a personal stake in what you do or don't do (although I will gently challenge you if I feel it's appropriate!) and the therapeutic relationship is intentionally unequal–I'm here for you.

Why shouldn’t I just take medication?

Medication can be effective and is sometimes needed in conjunction with therapy. I provide different kinds of support that are usually going to bring additional progress for you.

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

Because each person has different issues and goals for therapy, therapy will be different depending on the individual. I tailor my therapeutic approach to your specific needs. Mostly you just need to show up and be yourself!

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 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. I will say that in my work with people who have issues such as OCD, hair pulling, or skin picking, it's not unusual to see meanigful change within 2-3 months.

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

Depending on what our sessions are focused on, I might suggest therapy "homework" to practice between sessions. If you like to read (or listen to audio books) I am happy to recommend my favorites to you. In general, anything you can do to support your wellbeing (such as getting enough sleep) will be a positive.

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

This is a very personal decision, but many times when issues in relationships arise there is a benefit to being in both individual counseling and couples counseling if possible. This isn't feasible for everyone, so if you have to choose one or the other and you feel unsure, I might recommend starting with a couples counselor and seeing if individual issues seem to be getting in the way of resolving relationship issues. It's completely fine to start with either type of counseling and switch as your understanding of your situation changes.