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Common Questions

Is therapy right for me?


Seeking therapy is an individual choice. There are many reasons why people come to therapy. Sometimes it is to deal with long-standing psychological issues, or problems with anxiety or depression. Other times it is in response to unexpected changes in one's life such as a divorce or work transition. Many seek the advice of a therapist as they pursue their own personal exploration and growth. Working with a therapist can help provide insight, support, and new strategies for all types of life challenges. Therapy can help address many types of issues including depression, anxiety, conflict, grief, stress management, body-image issues, and general life transitions. Therapy is right for anyone who is interested in getting the most out of their life by taking responsibility, creating greater self-awareness, and working towards change in their lives.


Do I really need therapy? I can usually handle my problems.


Everyone goes through challenging situations in life, and while you may have successfully navigated through other difficulties, there is nothing wrong with seeking out extra support when you need it. People who seek therapy have enough self-awareness to realize they need help navigating a situation, and that is something to be admired. Therapy can provide long-lasting benefits and support, giving you the tools you need to avoid triggers, re-direct damaging patterns, and overcome future challenges.


How can therapy help me?


A number of benefits are available from participating in psychotherapy. Therapists can provide support, problem-solving skills, and enhanced coping strategies for issues such as depression, anxiety, relationship troubles, unresolved childhood issues, grief, stress management, body image issues and many other problems that you may be facing. Many people find that therapy can be a tremendous asset to managing personal growth, interpersonal relationships, family concerns, marriage issues, and day to day struggles. Therapists often provide a fresh perspective on a difficult situation or may help you generate new solutions for problems. The benefits you obtain from therapy depend on how well you use the process and put into practice what you learn. Some of the benefits available from therapy include:


  • Attaining a better understanding of yourself, your goals and values
  • Developing skills for improving your relationships
  • Finding resolution to the issues or concerns that led you to seek therapy
  • Learning new ways to cope with stress and anxiety
  • Managing anger, grief, depression, and other emotional pressures
  • Improving communications and listening skills
  • Changing old behavior patterns and developing new ones
  • Discovering new ways to solve problems in your family or marriage
  • Improving your self-esteem and boosting self-confidence/self-worth

What is therapy like?


Every therapy session is unique as it is geared towards each individual and their specific goals. It is standard for therapists to discuss the primary issues and concerns in your life during therapy sessions. Commonly therapy is conducted as a series of weekly sessions, where each session lasts around fifty minutes. Therapy can be short-term, focusing on a specific issue, or longer-term, addressing more complex issues or ongoing personal growth. There may be times when you are asked to take certain actions outside of the therapy sessions, such as reading a relevant book or keeping records to track certain behaviors. For therapy to be most effective the person served must process what has been discussed and integrate it into their own life. People seeking psychotherapy are willing to take responsibility for their actions, work towards self-change and create greater awareness in their lives. Here are some things you can expect out of therapy:

  • Compassion, respect and understanding
  • New perspectives to highlight patterns of behavior and/or negative feelings
  • A variety of strategies to generate positive change
  • Effective and proven techniques along with practical guidance

Is medication a substitute for therapy?


It is well established that the long-term solution to mental and emotional problems and the pain they cause cannot be solved solely by medication. Instead of just treating the symptom, therapy addresses the cause of our distress and the behavior patterns that hinder our progress. You can best achieve sustainable growth and a greater sense of well-being with an integrative approach to wellness.Working with your medical doctor and a therapist is the best way to see what works for you.


Do you accept insurance?


Please see the Rates and Insurance Page and the Should I use health insurance? page.


Is therapy confidential?


In general, the law protects the confidentiality of all communications between a client and psychotherapist. No information is disclosed without prior written permission from the client and/or legal guardian.

However, there are some exceptions required by law to this rule. Exceptions include:

  • Suspected child abuse or dependent adult or elder abuse. The therapist is required to report this to the appropriate authorities immediately.
  • If a client is threatening serious bodily harm to another person. The therapist is required to notify the police.
  • If a client intends to harm himself or herself. The therapist will make every effort to work with the individual to ensure their safety. However, if an individual does not cooperate, additional measures may need to be taken.

See Privacy Policies for additional information.

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