Common Questions
What I Love about Being a Psychotherapist
Becoming a therapist, for me, was a very organic and natural decision. I think the experience of sharing your most personal thoughts and feelings to someone you don't know is incredibly courageous, and I am humbled each time a new client walks into my office for this process.
Because I believe most of the answers are within the client, I see my job as a navigator, a safe harbor, a place to put everything on the table without judgement. Being able to explore the issue with me allows you to experience vulnerability and curiosity. I love when a client has an 'aha' moment and experiences something new within their feeling, thinking or behavior that impoves the quality of their life.
Passion, for me, is about experiencing the client as they are and allowing them the safety, comfort and guidance to step closer to that ideal self while still embracing their humanness. For some, the process of understanding happens quickly and for others it may slowly trickle out. There is no "right" way to do therapy. It is a process of which you are in control and I am the guide.
On the Fence About Going to Therapy?
Remember you are a consumer buying a service. If you have ambivalence, empower yourself with basic information about your clinician and don't be afraid to ask questions before you walk into the office about what the process might look like.
Ask yourself what the ambivalence might be about. Fear? Resistance? Anger? Embarrassment? Simply understanding the ambivalence may help dissipate it's power.
You may start therapy and see it isn't for you. That is OK, too. If you are ready for it, the part of you that is seeking change will be stronger than the part of you that is resistant. If you stop, this is simply a part of your life journey.
My goal is to help you feel better. Hopefully, you can feel safe enough to talk about the ambivalence with your clinician and the clinician can help you explore it without judgement and simply be curious about it. When we are curious, rather than judgmental, we can truly grow and learn.
Why do people seek therapy?
What can I expect in a therapy session?
What benefits can I expect from working with a therapist?
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Self acceptance
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Attaining a better understanding of yourself and your personal goals and values
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Developing skills for improving your relationships
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Finding resolution to the issues or concerns that led you to seek therapy
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Find new ways to cope with stress and anxiety
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Managing anger, depression, and other emotional pressures
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Improving communications skills - learn how to listen to others, and have others listen to you
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Getting "unstuck" from unhealthy patterns - breaking old behaviors and develop new ones
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Discovering new ways to solve problems
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Improving self esteem and confidence
Do you accept insurance?
Is therapy confidential?
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Suspected child abuse or dependent adult or elder abuse. The therapist is required by law to report this to the appropriate authorities immediately.
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If a client is threatening serious bodily harm to another person/s. The therapist must notify the police and inform the intended victim.
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If a client intends to harm himself or herself. The therapist will make every effort to enlist their cooperation in insuring their safety. If they do not cooperate, further measures may be taken without their permission in order to ensure their safety.