FAQ

There are many reasons why an individual might seek psychotherapy. Everyone’s motivations are different. Some individuals might need help managing depression, anxiety, relationship problems, stagnation, poor self-confidence, career or work related issues, etc. Individuals may be experiencing major life stressors or transitions and not handling them well. Therapy can help provide support and build skills. Some individuals may utilize therapy to learn more about themselves and how they can achieve optimal functioning and wellness. Others may need assistance with goal setting, problem solving and decision making. Many individuals are at a place where they want change and believe the guidance and support therapy offers can help them achieve the change they are seeking.

Because each person has different issues and goals for therapy, therapy will be different depending on the individual. In general, you can expect to discuss the current events happening in your life, your personal history relevant to your issue, and report progress (or any new insights gained) from the previous therapy session. 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 with your therapist (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.

Therapy sessions are absolutely confidential in almost every instance. Therapists are required by law to protect your privacy and cannot discuss what the two of you talk about in your sessions with anyone else. In addition, therapists are ethically responsible to keep your information confidential. In extreme circumstances of safety, some information may have to be shared, however, it will always be limited and the goal would be to ensure your safety and or the safety of others.