How does individual therapy work?

Individual therapy is a collaborative process using evidenced-based practices (EBPs) to treat a specific issue or concern. Per the American Psychological Association, “evidence-based practice is the integration of the best available research with clinical expertise in the context of patient characteristics, culture and preferences.” Therapy typically begins on a weekly basis with 55 minute appointments, which tapers off to biweekly, monthly, or as needed once goals are met.

How can therapy help?

Therapy looks different for everyone but the biggest ways I have seen therapy help is by freeing people from the idea that they need to do certain things or act a certain way in order to be accepted by others. The biggest transformations I have seen for patients has been when someone begins to act authentically in every area of their life. One of the ways this works is by setting boundaries with ourselves and others so we are able to feel more in control of our lives. Therapy can also be more specific. Sometimes it is helpful to have an objective person be there for us as we process a difficult event in our lives. Call for free consultation if you would like to better learn how therapy can help you or your child.

Can I start therapy before I know my specific goals?

Absolutely. Part of therapy is gaining insight on the real problem causing your distress so you don’t have to know exactly what you want to change before you start. The first sessions focus on gathering background information to start to inform your treatment plan. The treatment plan is basically our guide post throughout treatment. Goals are created together with you and your therapist and are created with a hierarchy to determine what you want to focus on first.

How long does therapy last?

Different treatment methods and goals influence this answer. Most of the time therapy is done when you meet your treatment goals. It can be a session or two or last for years depending on the goals and your preference. For example, Parent Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT) (which you can read more about in my Services page) is 12-16 sessions on average because it is a standardized treatment with a specific goal. Discussing how your family of origin dynamics affect your current relationships is a more broad topic and does not have a set time limit. During your free consultation call you can share your goals and expected timeline so we can discuss which modality of therapy is right for you.

How does confidentiality work?

Confidentiality refers to the ethical and legal obligations of a mental health professional to keep your participation in treatment private. This means I cannot confirm or deny that anyone is a patient of mine when asked by anyone other than the patient or a relevant caregiver (i.e. parent of a minor). The exceptions to this include any current reports of child abuse or elder abuse (as a Mandated Reported, I am required to report this), reports of ACTIVE plans to hurt yourself or someone else, or if your records or provider are subpoenaed by a judge. Everything else stays between you and your provider unless you explicitly request otherwise and sign a release of information form.

Why should I work with you?

Finding a therapist you feel comfortable with is one of, if not the most important factor in feeling better. Research has shown that the relationship between the therapist and patient is one of the biggest factors in determining if someone will improve with therapy. The only obvious exception to this is if you work with someone who is not qualified to work in the area you would like to work on. For example, I do not have the training to treat eating disorders so if this is your primary concern, I know I am not a good fit. Otherwise, the decision is up to you. Use my free consultation call to determine if I might be a good fit in working with you.