Common Questions

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How can therapy help me?

A number of benefits are available from participating in therapy. 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 creative blocks. Many people also find that counselors can be a tremendous asset to managing personal growth, interpersonal relationships, family concerns, marriage issues, and the hassles of daily life. Therapists can provide a fresh perspective on a difficult problem or point you in the direction of a solution. 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
    • Finding meaning and Purpose in life
    • Guidance moving through transitions

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 you've faced, it's a good idea to seek out extra support when you need it. In fact, therapy is for people who have enough self-awareness to realize they need a helping hand, and that is something to be admired. You are taking responsibility by accepting where you're at in life and making a commitment to change  by seeking therapy. Therapy provides long-lasting benefits and support, giving you the tools you need to avoid triggers, re-direct damaging patterns, and overcome whatever challenges you face. Holistic therapy, such as I offer, will also provide you with guidance to reach the higher levels of human potential and self-actualization.

Why do people go to therapy and how do I know if it is right for me?

People have many different motivations for coming to psychotherapy.   Some may be going through a major life transition (unemployment, divorce, new job, etc.), or are not handling stressful circumstances well.  Some people need assistance managing a range of other issues such as low self-esteem, depression, anxiety, addictions, relationship problems, spiritual conflicts and creative blocks.  Therapy can  provide practical tools, skills,  and encouragement  to get through these periods.  Others may be at a point where they are ready to learn more about themselves and grow,  or become more effective in life.   

What is therapy like?

Because each person is unique and has different issues and goals for therapy, therapy will be different depending on the individual.  You can expect to discuss your  inner life, current events happening in your life,  and your personal history. You will learn to be more in touch with your  needs  and your feelings, and how to listen to the messages your body is giving you.  You will learn practical tools to eliminate of manage your stress or anxiety. In addition to dealing with your emotional and lifestyle issues, you will , if you wish, receive guidance and methods for expanding your consciousness and awareness. Depending on your specific needs, therapy can be short-term, for a specific issue, or longer-term, to deal with more difficult patterns or your desire for more personal development.  Either way, it is most common to schedule regular sessions  (usually weekly).

It is important to understand that you will get more results from therapy if you actively participate in the process.  The ultimate purpose of therapy is to help you bring what you learn in session back into your life.  Therefore, beyond the work you do in therapy sessions, your therapist may suggest some things you can do outside of therapy to support your process - such as reading a pertinent book, journaling on specific topics, noting particular behaviors or taking action on your goals. People seeking psychotherapy are ready to make positive changes in their lives, are open to new perspectives and take responsibility for their lives.

What about medication vs. psychotherapy?

It is well established that the long-term solution to mental and emotional problems and the pain they cause cannot be solved by medication. Instead of just treating the symptom, therapy addresses the cause of our distress and the behavior patterns that curb our progress. You can best achieve sustainable growth and a greater sense of well-being with an integrative approach to wellness.

Does what we talk about in therapy remain confidential?

Confidentiality is one of the most important components between clients and psychotherapists. Successful therapy requires a high degree of trust with highly sensitive subject matter that is usually not discussed anywhere but the therapist's office. What you discuss in session will not be shared with anyone.  Sometimes, however, you may want your therapist to share information or give an update to someone on your healthcare team (your Physician, Naturopath, Attorney), but by law your therapist cannot release this information without obtaining your written permission.

State law and professional ethics require therapists to maintain confidentiality except for the following situations:

* Suspected past or present abuse or neglect of children, adults, and elders to the authorities, including Child Protection and law enforcement, based on information provided by the client or collateral sources.
* If the therapist has reason to suspect the client is seriously in danger of harming him/herself or has threated to harm another person.


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Monday:

10:00 am-6:00 pm

Tuesday:

10:00 am-6:00 pm

Wednesday:

10:00 am-6:00 pm

Thursday:

10:00 am-6:00 pm

Friday:

Closed

Saturday:

Closed

Sunday:

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