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. Everyone needs help now and then. Reaching out for help takes courage and shows great strength. 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’s the difference between talking to you or my best friend or family?
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 intense 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 to help you accomplish your personal goals. You might even find that with effective therapy you no longer need the same doses or medications to keep you healthy – this is an important conversation to have with your doctor if you feel it is right for you.
How does it work? What do I have to do in sessions?
Because each person has different issues and goals for counselling, it will be different depending on the individual. I tailor my therapeutic approach to your specific needs. Together we come up with a plan, and regularly check in to see if we need to adjust or add anything. There may be skills you practice throughout the week between sessions to help get the most out of your experience.
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. Regular check-ins (after 4-6 sessions) often help to keep clients focused on meeting their goals, and feeling like they’re getting the most they can from therapy.
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 will be crucial to your success. Some things that help the process along include booking regular sessions and showing up on time; following through with practicing skills throughout the week; and communicating regularly with your therapist what is working and what is not.
I have personal issues that I’m nervous about sharing. What if you judge me?
I will not judge you, and can even help you reduce some of your own self-judgements if this is where you struggle. Therapy involves personal issues, some of which are easier to discuss than others. It is a natural fear to have that opening up about personal matters might result in judgement or rejection. Most of the time, we are our own biggest critics. I come from a compassionate and sensitive perspective, and can help clients build their own self-compassion. Many clients are surprised at how relieved they are after opening up about their own personal issues, and hearing that I understand and that they aren’t alone. At the same time, we go at a pace that you set, and you get to decide what to share and how much.
Are you able to provide treatment for my chronic illness?
I am here to support you with the emotional side of your chronic illness, which can make it easier to manage, and increase your quality of life, energy, and mood. For physical treatment and medical advice, it is important to see a doctor or qualified healthcare professional that you trust. I can work alongside them and be a member of your team, which can often help lead to more positive results.
