First time in therapy?
Find answers to frequently-asked questions here:
Q: How do I know if you are the right therapist for me?
A: A central part of successful therapy is forming a trusting and secure relationship with your therapist. You may feel comfortable talking to me right away, or it may take you a few sessions to decide-- both are totally OK. You’ll need time and your intuition to know whether we're a good fit. As we get to know each other over our first few sessions, I’ll check in with you to see how our work feels to you.
Q: What can I expect in treatment?
A: In your first session, you and I will explore what brings you to therapy, what you’re struggling with at this time, and what you’d like to change. As we start working together, you’ll be in the driver’s seat to set our pace and raise the issues that are important to you. I’ll be there to help you make connections to better understand your feelings, beliefs, and behaviors, and help you develop the tools you need to get un-stuck and face new challenges.
You don’t need to come to therapy with an agenda prepared; you only need to show up ready to be present and curious about yourself— and willing to try something new!
Q: How long do you suggest your clients are in therapy? How often should I come?
A: Most likely you’ll notice a difference in how you feel after our first few sessions, but the length of time people people are in treatment varies depending on their unique needs, challenges, and goals. Some people are in treatment for 6 months, 1 year, or several years. It's all about what's right for you— and you’ll always be in control of how long you continue to pursue treatment.
Unless there are extenuating circumstances, I see all my clients at least once a week. I don’t offer biweekly sessions, because I’ve found — and research suggests — that therapy is most successful at making people feel better and creating lasting change when we see each other more frequently.
Q: Is psychotherapy confidential?
A: All information discussed in our sessions is strictly confidential, according to HIPAA standards. There are a few exceptions to confidentiality that are essential for your safety; I will discuss this with you during your first session.