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Frequently Asked
Questions
Psychotherapy:
Real Help for
Real Problems
Psychological
Evaluations:
Gender, Bariatric,
and Forensic
Workshops Offered
Colleague References
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Please note this page is under construction to provide
additional information.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long will I need to go to therapy?
Since everyone's situation and concerns are different, there is no set
answer to this. Trying to improve upon or deciding whether or not to leave a
relationship, grieving the death of a loved one, sorting out gender identity,
learning coping skills for depression or anxiety, considering job changes,
coming out as lesbian/gay/bisexual, healing from past trauma, and managing
stress or health concerns, which are just a few of the challenges I help people
with, are such different issues that each client's treatment is individualized.
Generally, clients set their therapy goals and decides when their goals are met.
When people need help with setting goals or an objective opinion on where they
are in their progress, I will help them sort through their concerns and
questions.
Most people start noticing some benefits after
the first couple of sessions because I am active and direct in giving feedback
and suggesting new approaches or views of situations which have been useful to
other clients.
For some issues, people come for short-term
counseling, such as 8-12 weeks. More substantial issues may involve 6-12 months
of therapy. Some clients choose to come longer for various reasons and to do
deeper work.
How frequently do I need to meet with you?
Initially, I suggest meeting once weekly for the first 2-3 weeks. This
timing helps us get to know each other and build a level of comfort to move
quickly into working on the client's issues. If someone is in crisis, early or
later on, we may meet 2-3 times a week. As people feel relief or progress, we
agree to meet less often. For example, we may meet every other week for a few
sessions, then once monthly for a few sessions and then discontinue meeting
completely. I have a number of clients who choose to continue checking in with
me with appointments every one, two or three months. Also, clients may return
after months or years when a new life situation arises, such as having a child
or changing a job.
Again, the suggested time-frame works for most
people, but I will work with your schedule. Many people travel for work or
taking vacations, so flexibility is necessary.
How long is each session?
Typically appointments last 45 minutes. If someone is coming from a long
distance or has an emergency, we may make special arrangements for a longer
appointment.
How much does therapy cost? (And how much does insurance cover?)
How do other people get away from work to go to therapy?
Is there something I can do in addition to or instead of therapy to help
myself?
Why do you think therapy helps people?
Why did you become a therapist?
My issues seem really scary/strange/impossible/repulsive--so I don't know
if you can help me.
I'm concerned that other people find out about my going to therapy. How
can I be assured that they won't?
Will having a record of therapy hurt my future career chances?
Can I bring in other family members to my sessions?
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