Are sessions in office/ in person or over the computer?
Since Covid-19 I am offering both telehealth and office visits. We can conduct sessions over the computer, phone or video on your phone. Even though it may seem different, i find that individuals and couples can actually open up well with telehealth, possibly because they feel more safe in their home environment or less embarrassed than sitting face to face with someone in the same room. Like anything else, it is different but it still has pro’s and con’s like most things in life. I’m happy to answer any further questions you have about telehealth if you ask.
I’ve never talked to anyone. I’m used to handling things on my own. Aren’t people who go to therapy weak?
Not at all. People who ask for help know when they need it and have the ability to reach out. Everyone needs help now and then. You already have some strengths that you’ve used before, that for whatever reason isn’t working right now. Perhaps this problem feels overwhelming and is making it difficult to access your past strengths. In our work together, I’ll help you identify what those strengths are and how to implement them again in what is happening now.
What’s the difference between talking to you or my best friend or family?
The difference is between someone who can do something, and someone who has the training and experience to do that same thing professionally. A mental health professional can help you approach your situation in a new way– teach you new skills, gain different perspectives, listen to you without judgment or expectations, and help you listen to yourself. Furthermore, therapy is completely confidential. You won’t have to worry about others “knowing my business.” Lastly, if your situation provokes a great deal of negative emotion, if you’ve been confiding in a friend or family member, there is the risk that once you are feeling better you could start avoiding that person so you aren’t reminded of this difficult time in your life.
Why shouldn’t I just take medication?
Medication alone cannot solve all issues. What medication does is treat the symptoms. Our work together is designed to explore the root of the issue, dig deep into your behavior and teach strategies that can help you accomplish your personal and/or relational goals.
Medication can be effective and is sometimes needed in conjunction with therapy.
What is the difference between Life Coaching and Counseling/psychotherapy?
Both Life Coaching and Therapy can be similar and different depending again on you and your own issues and goals. In general Life Coaching has a stronger focus on the “here and now” as well as the future. Life Coaching is focused on making improvements, setting goals, gaining perspective and tools to achieve self esteem, confidence, better relationships, career clarity, and taking your life to the next level. Counseling can also include these things however it is helpful for people that understand they might still have some unresolved past issues or dynamics that continue to hinder them. Counseling will also help those needing help with more serious mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, ptsd, or relationship issues.
How does it work? What do I have to do in sessions?
The first session is a time to talk about what you are currently experiencing, solidifying goals for our work together, and also looking at your past history to better understand your current situation and issues. In following sessions we will work toward making progress toward your goals and we will help guide you especially if this is your first time and you’re not sure what to say or where to start. We believe counseling and coaching is a very positive experience, though like working out sometimes it is difficult at first but with time our hope is that you will start feeling better about yourself and better able to handle life on life’s terms. We also offer optional homework and things to work on or consider in between sessions for those that are interested.
How long will it take?
Counseling and life Coaching are very personalized services therefore there is no one size fits all. Everyone’s circumstances are unique to them and the length of time therapy can take to allow you to accomplish your goals depends on your desire for personal development, your commitment, and the factors that are driving you to seek help in the first place. Either over the phone or during our first session we might be able to give a better estimate once we hear more about your story and what your hopes are for the process.