I’ve never talked to anyone. I’m used to handling things on my own. Aren’t people who go to therapy “crazy” or 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 can I get out of working with a therapist?

Therapy is not just for treating mental health conditions. It can help with many other life difficulties, such as coping with a breakup or job loss, developing or improving your social skills, overcoming your fear of public speaking, learning more about yourself and how you want to live your life, and improving your relationships.

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

It is very important to have friends that can support you through difficult times. They want the best for you and can offer you some great advice. Friends, unfortunately, are not trained mental health or substance use professionals. Friends can sometimes see things only from your prospect and can give advice that is not so helpful. A therapist is someone who has the training and experience to treat mental health and substance use issues. A mental health professional can help you approach your situation in a new way– teach you new skills, gain different perspectives, and listen to you without judgment or expectations.

Furthermore, counseling is completely confidential. You won’t have to worry about others “knowing about your problems.” 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 an important part of mental health treatment, but not everyone benefits from medication. Even in individuals for whom medication is helpful, research shows that the combination of medication with psychotherapy is more effective than medication alone. I will help you determine what will likely be the most beneficial approach for your unique situation. If a medication evaluation would be helpful, I will be happy to link you with a psychiatrist or psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner.

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.

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.

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 is crucial to your success. Psychotherapy sessions generally occur once a week so work must be done outside the session. I recommend that clients view psychotherapy as a short-term investment of time, money, and emotional energy. Setting the expectation that this is time for you to really work to finally experience the changes you’re seeking, can help you get the most out of each session. This mindset can also help you better apply the insights gained in your sessions to your regular life, and can shorten the time you may otherwise have spent coming to therapy.

I’m not getting out of therapy or coaching what I think I need. Can I have a refund?

Unfortunately, I do not offer refunds for psychotherapy services. If I provide a service to you I have spent time preparing for that session, reserved a time specifically for you, as well as given you my clinical expertise.

I do offer refunds on coaching services for very specific situations. You will need to review my refund policy in your life coaching agreement for more specific terms. I encourage you to talk with me about any concerns or needs that you have. If you ever feel uncomfortable about something that is said or an intervention that is used during a session, please don’t hesitate to let me know. I will do everything within my power to make your therapy or coaching experiences positive and rewarding for you. You must remember that therapy and coaching is going to be work on your part. You will get out of it what you are willing to put into it.