I’ve never talked to anyone. I’m used to handling things on my own. Aren’t people who go to therapy 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, we’ll help you explore and identify your strengths and how to implement them to reduce the influence of the problems you are facing.
What’s the difference between talking to you or my best friend or family?
The difference is between someone who can do something, and someone who has the training and experience to do that same thing professionally. A mental health professional can help you approach your situation in a new way– teach you new skills, gain different perspectives, listen to you without judgment or expectations, and help you listen to yourself. Furthermore, counseling is completely confidential. You won’t have to worry about others “knowing my business.” 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 effective but it alone cannot solve all issues. Sometimes medication is needed in conjunction with counseling. Our work together is designed to explore and unpack the problems you are experiencing and expand on your strengths that can help you accomplish your personal goals.
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. We tailor our therapeutic approaches 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?
We are so glad you are dedicated to getting the most out of your sessions! Your active participation and dedication will be crucial to your success.
Since I work all day, it would be hard to go to a center during regular working hours. Is your office open at night or on weekends?
Our therapists occasionally offer night and weekend appointments to best fit their clients needs. One way we help with this struggle is offering online counseling where the therapists schedule may be more flexible.
I have a friend who says she could use some professional help, but she is worried about keeping it confidential.
No need to worry!
Confidentiality is basic to therapy, and you have the right to control access to information about your treatment. Professional association guidelines plus federal and state laws regulate the importance of confidentiality in therapist-client relationships and govern the release of records. Some insurance companies require certain information from the therapist as a condition for payment, but that information can be released only if the patient gives written permission.
What if I really try, but I still can’t feel comfortable with the therapist?
There should be a “fit” between your personality and that of the therapist. Someone else – or some other method – may be more suitable for you. You can ask your therapist for a referral to another mental health professional and he/she will gladly assist you in finding someone that may be of more help to you. We are here to help and your success in therapy is our primary goal.
I often hear that mental health issues can lead to addiction. Is this true?
This is true. Imagine a very common scenario where a person experiences depression, anxiety, a traumatic event, disordered eating habits, etc. The symptoms one experiences with mental health issues can be overwhelming and sometimes feel unmanageable. When that happens, people can turn to drugs and alcohol to help alleviate the symptoms and numb the pain. However, over time, continued use of substances will fail to bring the sought after relief and will instead create a new and equally intrusive problem: addiction.