Information about the
process of therapy
choosing to seek therapy...
requires an important investment of your time, finances, trust and emotional well being. To best utilize the process, it is important to find a therapist who is a good fit. One sign of a good fit with a therapist is when you feel you and the therapist have formed a connection, and you feel safe enough to risk exposure and exploration. You will know if you have a good fit with a therapist when you feel closely attended to, seen and understood, and challenged to understand yourself more fully.
during the first session...
I will ask you to tell me why you are seeking counseling at this time and what goals you might have for the work we will do. I will ask questions, give feedback about what I am observing about your concerns, and I will tell you how I could be helpful to you in a therapy process should you decide to work with me. You are welcome to ask me any questions that will help you decide whether working together will be productive for you.
if it feels right to you...
we can schedule another appointment time. Some people know after the first session that they would like to come back, others prefer to think about the initial visit afterwards before making a decision. You will have my support in making the decision that fits best for you and your needs.
the relationship with your therapist....
is one of the most significant aspects of the counseling process. Studies show that even more important than the method or theory of therapy your therapist practices, it is the connection and relationship between therapist and client that has the highest predictor of satisfaction and change. If, after we met, you do not feel we I am the right person for you, I will be happy to refer you to a colleague with whom you might be a better match.
what is therapy about?
It is not uncommon for new clients to feel such a strong sense of urgency that their primary goal when entering therapy is to find an immediate solution. Often, anxieties get attached to concrete problems when there is something more to be understood beneath the surface, from inside of you. I am committed to helping you find a solution - once we understand the true nature of the problem you are facing. Most people put predictable behavioral patterns into place as a way of dealing with stressors. While these may have worked to some degree in the past, they are likely to be preventing you from making needed changes for your life going forward. I will take the time with you that you need to discover a comprehensive understanding of what your concerns, patterns and difficulties are really about, so that whatever solution emerges, it can be sustainable in your life going forward.
how long does the therapy process take?
The first stage of therapy will address any crisis which may be occurring, with the focus on helping you manage the current stressors and re-stabilize your life. Next, we seek to understand patterns of behavior which may have been coping skills or self protective measures at one time, but now block your ability to live fully. This stage of therapy often involves exploring a deeper connection to self and others and learning to identify and fulfill relational needs. Finally, integrating these new behaviors and feelings, you can make the shift to greater satisfaction in life, becoming aware of new feelings of confidence, mastery, competence along with a deeper ability to find meaning and enhance pleasure in everyday life and with important loved ones. This results in a greater sense of self acceptance and well being. There is no set timeline for therapy, each person or couple has different needs and I help you to work at your own pace. I will work with you to establish your own goals and timeline for the work we will do together. I am available to review our work together at any time.