I’ve always managed things by myself. Does asking for help mean I'm weak?
Absolutely not. Choosing to ask for support shows incredible strength and self-awareness. Therapy isn't a sign of weakness. It's a courageous step toward honoring your resilience and creating space for growth. In our work together, we'll explore your strengths and empower you to navigate challenges and move forward with greater clarity and confidence.
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, counseling 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, and 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.
Is therapy better than medication for improving my wellbeing?
Therapy and medication each serve important roles, and many people find that they often work best together. Medication can provide relief and may help get you to a baseline of more regulated emotions. Therapy offers a space to understand what's going on underneath the surface and help to tap into your inner strength. Therapy will also equip you with tools for lasting change.
What can I expect in our first session?
In our first session, we will review important aspects of the counseling relationship and focus on getting to know you. I want to know your story, your values, what is important to you, and what you'd like to achieve. Think of this as a conversation in a safe, supportive space. We'll explore what brought you here, answer your questions, and begin building a healthy and supportive relationship that aligns with your pace and your goals.
How does it work? What do I have to do in sessions?
Each person comes into therapy with their own issues and stressors as well as their own experiences and history. We will work collaboratively with you to create a treatment plan tailored to your specific needs. This often requires work outside of the therapy session, but does not always include “homework”. What you put into therapy will greatly influence what you are able to get out of therapy. It can be hard work, but often times, the work you put into yourself will be rewarding and well-deserved.
What should I do between sessions?
If requested or supportive of our work together, at times, your therapist may provide you with a handout/worksheet on tools you are learning in sessions. Sometimes, your therapist will make suggestions on reading materials, podcasts, books, or journalling. However, there is no homework unless it feels right for you. The most important thing you can do between sessions to deepen our work is to engage in reflection. You might notice patterns, journal about your feelings, or try a small practice of topics/tools we discuss in session. If something feels beneficial, we'll shape it into your journey.
How long does therapy usually take?
Therapy isn't a one-size-fits-all. Everyone’s circumstances are unique to them and the length of time can vary. It could be more short-term, structured work, or more open-ended depending on your goals. We'll regularly revisit progress and adjust as needed. However, if you are looking for a brief or time-specific style of therapy, please ask us about about specific treatment options we provide, including Solution Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT), Prolonged Exposure (PE). and Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR).
I want to get the most out of therapy. What can I do to help?
We are so glad you are dedicated to getting the most out of your sessions. Your active participation and dedication will be crucial to your success. You will get what you put in, and there is no greater investment in life than investing in yourself.