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 courage to reach out. None of us escape life unharmed, and we were not designed to face life’s struggles alone. So in our work together, I’ll help you explore your story in both it’s beauty and disappointments. We’ll identify where you’re stuck and what’s keeping you there. And we’ll also look at the grace at work in your life, your strengths, and how to step more into both to reduce the influence of the problems you are facing.
What’s the difference between talking to you or my best friend or family?
Relationships with friends and family are very important and talking with those people can be helpful. The difference, however, is between someone who can do something, and someone who has the training and experience to do that same thing professionally. A trained counselor 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, so what you say here, stays here. The work you do in counseling is designed to give you more of your self to take back to your other relationships so that they can grow and deepen in healthy and loving ways.
Why shouldn’t I just take medication?
Medication can at times be effective, but it cannot solve all issues on its own. Sometimes medication is needed in conjunction with counseling, and often is most effective when the two are paired together. A supervisor of mine used to say that medication can at times help you get out of bed, but you still have to put one foot in front of the other. Our work is designed to explore and unpack the root problems you are experiencing and then expand on your strengths to help you keep walking.
How long will it take?
This is different for each person. New clients are asked to commit to weekly sessions during the initial phase of counseling. I have worked with clients whose time in counseling range from six weeks to several years. Everyone’s circumstances are unique, and the length of time counseling can take to allow you to see the change you want depends on your desire for personal development, your commitment, and facing the complex factors that are driving you to seek counseling in the first place.
I want to get the most out of therapy. What can I do to help?
If this is true for you, then you are already in a great place. Studies indicate that your success is largely dependent on your belief in the counseling process, your active participation in that process, and your willingness to put in the necessary work. I work best with clients who want to get the most out of counseling for themselves. Simply put, I ask that you show up, tell the truth about yourself and your life, and commit to staying in the process over time.