Frequently Asked Questions
“How often do people usually come to therapy?”
Many people will start out with weekly therapy, so that we can learn about the issues you are currently dealing with and so I can get to know your history and background. Sometimes due to scheduling or finances, we may meet every other week. Many clients transition to every-other week or monthly sessions for “maintenance” work; we will check in regularly to make sure therapy still feels helpful.
“How long do people usually stay in therapy?”
Some people come for a few months to work on a particular issue, but many of my clients find that long-term work is beneficial for deep, lasting change. It’s also ok to take breaks and return when you want to start work back up again.
“Can I do short-term or check-in therapy?”
We can discuss a plan for short-term therapy if you’d like to address a specific issue. We will discuss your concerns together and explore a plan for treatment. Some clients find check-ins helpful after a period of weekly therapy.
“Do I have to know where to start? Do I need to come with a list of what I want to work on?”
It’s really ok to feel unsure about where to start. Sometimes we just have a general feeling of anxiety, or stuckness, or not connecting with people the way we’d like. I can help you sort through what’s going on for you. We will slow down when things feel overwhelming.
“What should I expect in the first session?”
We will talk about what challenges you are facing right now, and maybe talk a bit about your background or what lead up to these issues. I’ll share about how I work with clients, what I think might be helpful, and if we decide to work together I’ll review the process. I’ll answer any questions or concerns you might have. It’s also ok to try therapy and stop if it doesn’t feel like a good fit.
Contact me to schedule a free 15-minute phone consultation.
Resources
The following resources are listed to provide you with additional mental health care information and resources.
National Alliance on Mental Illness
Resources, Information, and Support
Headspace
Meditation App
Coming Out
Resources for individuals, youth, and families
Mindsight
Resources on building mindfulness and emotional awareness
Atlas of Emotions
Interactive Tool