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Frequently Asked Questions

 

   Many people have questions about what it's like to engage in therapy. When are a client of mine, we will meet weekly or every other week via the teleconferencing platform Zoom. Therapy is a joint venture where you help set your goals, share your thoughts and feelings about what's going on in your life, and learn about yourself and how you relate to those who are important to you. Here are a few of the most common questions people ask when they start therapy:  

How can therapy help me?I'm a title

  Most clients find it very helpful to meet with a therapist they trust in a safe, objective environment as they process difficult life experiences and emotions. They learn problem-solving skills and healthy coping strategies, as well as ways to address conflict, fear and anxiety. A therapist trained in family systems can provide fresh perspective and explain how the way you were raised may be impacting you now.

 

  The success of counseling depends on many things, but most importantly, rests on the connection you have with your therapist and your willingness to learn and apply new strategies. 

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Do I need meds or therapy?

  Medications can be extremely helpful, and in some cases necessary, to relieve certain symptoms of mental and emotional problems. But it is well established that the long-term solution to such problems cannot be solved with medication alone.

Your physician may recommend that you work with a therapist in addition to taking medication.

 

  Instead of treating only the symptoms, therapy addresses the underlying causes of distress and behavior patterns that hinder progress. With therapy, many clients find that they don't need medication.

 

  However, the best approach to emotional and mental health is an integrated one.  If you give me permission, I will work closely with your doctor to integrate your care.

 

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What does therapy look like?itle. Double click me.

  Each person's issues and goals are unique, so therapy will be different depending on each individual or couple. Generally, the first sessions involve getting to know more about you as the client or couple and your goals and concerns. We'll talk about your relationships, both now and in the past, and set goals for our time together.

 

  Our work can be short-term for a specific issue, or longer term to deal with more entrenched patterns or your desire for greater personal growth. I usually recommend weekly sessions. At times I assign homework, such as journaling, practicing new skills or couples activities. 

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Will therapy save my marriage? ***

  There are no guarantees that therapy can save your marriage. But there is significant evidence that it can help couples step back from the fighting and see the patterns that lead to conflict. Learning how to express underlying needs and emotions in more positive ways can deepen your connection and intimacy. Even after infidelity and betrayal, couples can face the pain and move forward to build a stronger, more satisfying relationship.  

 

  I understand that both partners may not be open to coming to therapy.  I encourage each to talk with me over the phone or try one session before deciding whether it's a fit as a couple or  individual. 

 

  I do advise couples with on-going physical abuse or active substance abuse to seek individual counseling before attempting to work together.

 

 *** I AM NOT ACCEPTING NEW COUPLES FOR TELETHERAPY WORK AT THIS TIME.

 

  

 

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