Seeking out therapy is an individual choice. There are many reasons why people come to therapy. Sometimes it is to deal with long-standing psychological issues, or problems with anxiety or depression. Other times it is in response to unexpected changes in one’s life such as a divorce or work transition. Many seek the support of counsel as they pursue their own personal exploration and growth. Working with a therapist can help provide insight, support and new strategies for all types of life challenges. Therapy can help address many types of issues including depression, anxiety, conflict, grief, stress management, body –image issues, and general life transitions. Therapy is right for anyone who is interested in getting the most out of their life by taking responsibility, creating greater self-awareness, and working towards change in their lives.
Everyone goes through challenging situations in life, and while you may have successfully navigated through other difficulties you’ve face, there’s nothing wrong with seeking out extra support when you need it. In fact, therapy is for people who have enough self-awareness to realize they need a helping hand, and that is something to be admired. You are taking responsibility by accepting where you’re at in life and making a commitment to change the situation by seeking therapy. Therapy provides long-lasting benefits and support, giving you the tools you need to avoid triggers, re-direct damaging patterns, and overcome whatever challenges you face.
Therapy has to be a collaborative process if you want to obtain the goals you set. I believe that together we discuss the goals and the desired outcome of therapy. Then we work together as a team to meet those specific goals. One of the most critical components to “successful” therapy is based on the trust and relationship built between the client and therapist. If you do not feel comfortable with your therapist, it could affect how open you are and how much you would share about your life situation which brought you to therapy. Remember that trust takes time, so you have initial sessions to go with your gut feeling and think, “Can I see me developing a relationship with this person?”
An initial phone conversation or consultation can be a good way for you to get some initial questions answered. Please call me at 410-203-2411 if you have a few questions before making a decision.
Each person/family is unique; therefore, there is not average number of sessions. Treatment will continue until you and your therapist decide you have achieved your goals. Some clients come in for just a few session (3 or4) while others work more long-term in therapy. My goal is to help you gain the skills to successfully maneuver the challenges that life brings. I, your therapist, will draw on skills you already have, strengthen them and give you new tools to help address and heal the issue/ problem. It is my job as a therapist to help you be self-sufficient.
A number of benefits are available from participating in psychotherapy. Therapist can provide support, problem-solving skills, and enhanced coping strategies for issues such as depression, anxiety, relationship troubles, unresolved childhood issues, grief, stress management, body image issues, creative blocks, and spiritual searching. Many people also find that counselors can be a tremendous asset to managing personal growth, interpersonal relationships, family concerns, marriage issues, and the hassles of daily life. Therapist can provide a fresh perspective on a difficult problem or point you in the direction of a solution. The benefits you obtain from therapy depend on how well you use the process and put into practice what you learn. Some of the benefits available from therapy include:
- Attaining a better understanding of yourself, you goals and values
- Developing skills for improving your relationships
Finding resolution to the issues or concerns that led you to seek therapy - Learning new ways to cope with stress and anxiety
- Managing anger, grief, depression, and other emotional pressures
- Improving communications and listening skills
- Changing old behaviors and thought patterns and developing new ones
- Discovering new ways to solve problems in your family or marriage
- Improving your self-esteem and boosting self-confidence
Every therapy session is unique and caters to each individual and their specific goals. It is standard for therapists to discuss the primary issues and concerns in your life during therapy sessions. It is common to schedule a series of weekly sessions, where each session lasts around fifty minutes. There may be times when you are asked to take certain actions outside of the therapy sessions, such as reading a relevant book, listening to a hypnosis cd or keeping records to track certain behaviors. It is important to process what has been discussed and integrate it into your life between sessions. For therapy to be most effective you must be an active participant, both during and between the sessions. People seeking psychotherapy are willing to take responsibility for their actions, work toward self-change and create greater awareness in their lives. Here are some of the things you can expect out of therapy:
- Compassion, respect and understanding
- Perspectives to illuminate persistent patterns and negative feelings
- Real strategies for enacting positive change
- Effective and proven techniques along with practical guidance
Therapy is a safe and confidential place to work through challenges. We all have challenges in our lives. All visits and records are confidential. No one will be informed about your participation in counseling without your specific request in writing for a release of information.
In general, the law protects the confidentiality of all communications between a client and a psychotherapist. No information is disclosed without prior written permission from the client.
However, there are some exceptions required by law to this rule. Exceptions include:
- Suspected child abuse or dependent adult or elder abuse. The therapist is required to report this to appropriate authorities immediately.
- If a client is threatening serious bodily harm to another person. The therapist is required to notify the police.
- If a client intends to harm herself or himself. The therapist will make every effort to work with the individual to ensure their safety. However, if an individual does not cooperate, additional measures may need to be taken.
If you have further questions about confidentiality, or any of our policies, they can be discussed in person on your initial visit.
I only use text messages and email for appointment-related matters, such as scheduling appointments or to inform each other if we are running late for an appointment. This is to avoid the risk of a breach in confidentiality. Therapy issues are not discussed through texts or emails.