How can therapy help me?

Therapy can help by setting aside uninterrupted time, free from distractions, to discuss problematic areas of one’s life with a trained professional. It gives people an opportunity to express themselves freely, without judgment and to move from a place of distress to a place of contentment. Therapy provides education around the presenting problem and ways to cope more adaptively.

Why do people go to therapy?

People initiate therapy to reduce anxiety, to improve mood and to maximize their relationships.  Often times, people are looking to make a change or feel dissatisfied with one or more areas in their lives. Therapy can be reactive (a problem or crisis is occurring and requires immediate attention) or proactive (having the foresight to get ahead of anticipated stressors before they escalate). 

Will you give me advice?

Therapists act as guides and ask questions to enable their patients to understand how and why they make certain choices and to evaluate whether those choices are aligned with their values and goals.  It is not the therapist’s role to routinely offer advice but rather to provide patients with the tools to confidently make decisions. 

How long does therapy take?

Therapy can be effective after only a few sessions, or it may take months or years depending on the history of the presenting problem. It is not enough to just show up and expect things will change.  Much of the work and progress will take place in between sessions as clients practice what they have learned in their therapy.  

What is cognitive behavioral therapy?

Cognitive behavioral therapy is a model that suggests that the way that we think (our thoughts) drive our emotions and our reactions/behaviors.  The goal is to detect errors, limitations, rigidity, biases and counterproductive patterns in one’s thoughts that are contributing to emotional dysregulation or harmful behaviors.  The relationship between thoughts and emotions/reactions/behaviors is the primary focus to aide in behavioral change and problem solving.

What is positive psychology?

Positive psychology focuses on how to cultivate positive emotions to live a happier and more meaningful life.  It is the science of optimism, gratitude, resilience, connection, character strengths, motivation and strong communication applied to daily living.  It drives us to answer the question: what’s right with you?” as opposed to, “what’s wrong with you?”

How can I tell if a therapist is a good match for me?

Sitting down with a therapist and sharing can be uncomfortable, uncharacteristic, and vulnerable for lots of folks.  The person you choose to accompany you on your therapy journey should facilitate openness and provide a compassionate and safe space to explore. Most psychologists will schedule an initial call with you to determine whether there will be a mutual good fit.  Treat this time as a mini interview.

What credentials should I look for?

When you are seeking a therapist, you should make sure that person is licensed.  Masters level therapists have credentials and training such as: Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT). Doctoral level licensed psychologists are Ph.D or Psy.D. You can always ask your prospective therapist about their education and training.  In fact, you should! 

Will my insurance cover our sessions?

I am an out of network provider meaning that I do not participate with any of the insurance companies.  Payment is out of pocket and a receipt will be issued so you can seek reimbursement if you choose.  Many health care plans have health savings accounts and/or flexible spending accounts that patients use to help with therapy costs.  You should check with your insurance plan before committing to therapy.  Financial surprises are not the fun kind of surprises.

How will I know if therapy is working?

Over the years, I have loved gathering responses around this question.  People describe feeling: comfortable in their skin; willing to take calculated risks; at ease; more confident; less bogged down by the demands of life; satisfied with their relationships; more connected and present; less depressed; more flexible in their thinking; capable of doing something that seemed impossible before; and so much more.  You should be talking about the progress being made in real time.

What is the difference between therapy and coaching?

Therapy tends to take a deep look at how one’s past might be affecting his/her current circumstances.  Coaching focuses on the here and now, goal setting and accomplishment, and setting up for future success.