WHEN SHOULD I SEEK THERAPY?

The decision to seek therapy is a very personal decision.  Many people decide to find a therapist when they are in a state of crisis or stress.  Others may be trying to make an important life change or want to stop repeating an old pattern.

Regardless of the catalyst, some of the common reasons people enter therapy include:

• Feelings of anxiety
• Depression/Mood swings
• Loneliness
• Grief/Bereavement
• Chronic pain or physical illness
• Constant worry or obsessions
• Excessive anger/frustration/guilt
• Self-destructive thoughts or behavior
• Substance abuse problems
• Difficulties in relationships
• Divorce/Separation
• Low self-esteem
• Trauma/Abuse
• Family problems

WHAT IS THE ROLE OF THE THERAPIST?

Psychotherapy is a professional relationship that is guided by a set of established ethical principles, standards and practices.  It is important to find someone with whom you can establish good rapport.  The therapist should be someone who listens attentively, is reflective and thoughtful, and non-judgmental.  One of the unique qualities of the therapeutic relationship is that the therapist is ethically bound to keep what you say confidential.  There are a few exceptions to this rule, such as in cases where the client may be a threat to self or others.  These exceptions to confidentiality are identified in the disclosure statement given to you by the therapist at the beginning of treatment.  The therapist is committed to helping you repair/resolve /or find a solution to whatever issues brought you into treatment.

WHAT IS THE ROLE OF THE CLIENT?

The client’s role in psychotherapy is to establish an active and collaborative working relationship with the therapist.  As the therapist has a responsibility to you, the client also has  responsibilities to  attend regularly scheduled appointments and to recognize that the process of change may, at times, be painful and difficult.   The work of therapy occurs within the context of the therapeutic relationship and it is important that you feel you can be open with your therapist to share whatever you feel is important to you.  If you feel that something isn’t being addressed, you should feel free to ask your therapist about this to see if you can resolve it.

HOW LONG WILL THERAPY LAST?

The length of therapy depends on each individual client and his/her goals.  For some, treatment will be relatively short-term, lasting only several months.  For others, treatment will be on-going over the course of years.    Generally, therapy is scheduled once a week.  However, there may be occasions when more frequent sessions are indicated and necessary.  The decision about length of treatment is something that is made between you and the therapist and is an on-going part of the therapy experience.

WHAT IF MEDICATION IS NEEDED?

When medication is considered, I will provide you with a list of several psychiatrists who specialize in evaluating and prescribing psychotropic medications.