FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
- How do I find the right therapist for myself or my relationship?
- Therapy is supposed to be a collaborative process. The most critical piece to successful therapy is the relationship you build with your therapist. If you don't feel comfortable, how are you going to share your life situation?
If possible, have a general idea regarding what your goals/expectations are for your therapy. If you have an idea what you want, this can better help you determine what experience, specialties and/or training you would like your therapist to have.
A telephone consultation can be a good way to get some initial questions answered. This is your opportunity to ask about a therapist's education, training, credentials and approach to therapy.
- How many sessions will I/we need to attend to solve the problem?
- Each person/family is unique; therefore there is no average number of sessions. Treatment will continue until you decide you have achieved your goals, and are ready to be on your own. Some individuals/couples/ families come in for just a few sessions (i.e. 3 or 4), other work more long-term in therapy. My goal is to help you gain the skills to successfully maneuver the challenges that life brings.
- How often will we meet?
- Weekly sessions, particularly at the start of therapy, are helpful in building trust and rapport between client and therapist. Weekly appointments may also help make more rapid progress towards their goals. As skills are gained and treatment goals are attained, many find that less frequent sessions are possible. Each situation is different, and frequency can be adjusted as necessary.
- What about confidentiality?
Therapy is a safe and private place to work through challenges. All visits and records are confidential. No one will be informed of your participation in counseling without your specific request for a release of information in writing.
However, there are legal limitations to confidentiality. These limitations include, but are not limited to: reporting child, elder and dependent adult abuse; when a client makes a reasonable threat of violence towards a reasonably identifiable victim; when the client is dangerous to him/herself, another person, or the property of another; or when there is a court order.
If confidentiality (or the limitations) is a concern for you, please be sure to mention this to me at our first meeting. I will be happy to discuss your concerns further.