Many people are uncertain about how to begin therapy. Here are some frequently asked questions that may be helpful:
What happens in the first session?
During the first minutes of this meeting, I like to hear a little about who you are - interests, relationship/family background, work, etc. We'll then move deeper into your story and your goals. You'll have a chance to ask questions about my approach, background, etc. As we're getting to know each other, we're both getting a clearer sense of whether I'm the professional you can trust to help you meet your goals.
For counseling or therapy, we always meet weekly in the beginning (first month or so). Then we'll decide together on the frequency that best helps you achieve your goals for therapy.
For supervision and coaching, we will discuss frequency and
decide on how to customize your plan to best provide the support
and growth you desire.
How long will counseling take?
There aren't any hard and fast rules when it comes to this. It entirely depends on what brought you to therapy, your goals, and your effort to practice what you're working on in your daily life. Each person takes a different path. Once you reach your goals, together we'll decide whether to start the process of saying goodbye or focus on new goals. I promise to support you as long as you need, but no more than necessary. In some cases, clients prefer to check-in with me as needed or for monthly maintenance sessions after our initial work together ends.
I've been to therapy before, but it didn't work. What
makes you different from other therapists I've been
to?
I'm glad you asked. I believe that the intangible thing that heals in therapy is a good fit between the client and the therapist. It's that "connection" that only happens with certain people. As a person, I'm equal parts sensitive, practical, down-to-earth, and accessible. I speak honestly with a tactful way so you can hear the message and get the insight you need. Depending on what brings you to counseling, I can be collaborative and help you arrive at your own conclusions or I can be prescriptive - just let me know if you want a solution to your problems.
As a seasoned licensed therapist, my approach is one that encourages deep lasting transformation based on your desired goals. I am uniquely qualified and skilled to help you address relationship and sexual concerns. After years of specialized training in sexuality, I earned certification as an AASECT sex therapist and certified supervisor. For most of us, our relationships and sexual expression is typically a deeply personal and private area of our lives. I provide a safe space and safe relationship in which you can explore, heal and grow with confidence that your privacy and confidentiality is secure and that you are respected as a person.
