Common Questions
How will I know what therapist is right for me?
What makes someone a good therapist for you is largely dependent on how you feel when working with them. It all begins with an assessment and meeting. You will sit with me and we will talk about what brings you into the office, what experiences you have had with therapy in the past and what you are hoping to achieve. Sometimes it takes a few sessions to determine if a therapist is the right fit. We will have an open dialogue about it together - what is helpful and what is not. Together we can determine if it is a good match. It’s okay if I do not feel like a good match for you, and this is something I encourage everyone to discuss openly.
Will I have to talk about things I do not want to?
Therapy with me is structured as a give and take. Safety and comfort comes first and is always my priority. We will work at your pace and toward your goals. When we run into difficult topics I will always let you know why I might gather certain information and you can always slow us down or stop the conversation. Many people find that they do not have full details or memories about their experiences. Rather than thinking about therapy as a gathering of the facts, think of it as a space to be curious, process, and acknowledge experiences even without a narrative.
How frequent are sessions, and for how long?
This will always vary, but in the beginning most people start with weekly sessions. I offer standard 50 minute therapy hours as well as shorter format sessions. This helps the client and therapist decide together what makes the most sense for what is happening in their life. After some time, most clients prefer to continue to meet weekly but for others more frequent or infrequent sessions work better.
Length of time spent in therapy varies by person. Many people find that with validation and support they can resolve certain issues quickly, others find comfort in a sustained long term therapy relationship. Together we will decide when it is time to continue or if it is time to end. These concerns are always part of my conversations with clients and we focus on what works for you.
What if my insurance, schedule, or availability changes?
Insurance changes, re-locations, new schedules and responsibilities can complicate therapy. We will work together with the life changes that come up. I hope you will find that my open dialogue leaves space to try to fit mental health care into your life no matter what comes up.
Don’t see your answer here?
You might have a lot of questions. Reach out where I can answer specific inquiries including information about fee schedules and other costs associated with care. I always keep up to date information on my website’s contact me page.