FAQs

Why therapy?

There is much research that shows that participating in therapy can make a real impact on enhancing people's physical and emotional well-being. Therapy can also help with:

• improving communication skills
• overcoming past upsetting experiences
• developing healthy ways of coping
• solving problems in life
• improving relationships
• improving job/academic performance
• processing painful emotions
• changing thought processes to be more healthy and realistic

I'd encourage you to give therapy a try. You might be surprised how the simple act of talking things out with someone trained to listen can make a huge difference.

What will we talk about?

We will talk about whatever the problems are that are bringing you into therapy. And most important--I will help you figure out what your best options are for dealing with those problems.

Does teletherapy work?

There is a lot of research that shows that teletherapy can be just as effective as face-to-face therapy for many types of problems. I choose to provide therapy virtually because I believe it is more accommodating for my clients in the hectic, busy world we live in. Benefits for you:

• Convenience of having private sessions from the comfort of your home / office space. You choose your location.
• No need to spend extra time travelling to appointments
• No waiting room time. We set an appointment and get started immediately
• Enhances traditional face to face medicine by using technology to increase access to care

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

Not at all. People who ask for help know when they need it and have the courage to reach out. Everyone needs help now and then. In our work together, I’ll help you explore and identify your strengths and how to implement them to reduce the influence of the problems you are facing.

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

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 a new way– teach you new skills, gain different perspectives, listen to you without judgment or expectations, and help you listen to yourself. Furthermore, counseling 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, and 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.

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?

Because each person has different issues and goals for counseling, it will be different depending on the individual. I tailor my therapeutic approach to your specific needs. A good place to start is just by talking about the problems in your life and how they are affecting you.

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. That being said, a lot of people can develop clarity and notice signs of relief in just one session. If your problems are more long-standing, you may want to stick with therapy for a longer time to see lasting changes.

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. Do your best to make time to attend the appointments regularly and be as honest as you can. Remember, what you talk about is strictly confidential!