FAQs

I’m not sure my problems are significant enough to talk with a psychotherapist or coach. How do I know when it’s time to reach out for help?

People reach out for help from me when their own ideas and resources are unable to help them push through a challenge they are facing. While some clients I work with have a clear mental health problem, others are struggling with life and relationship changes that are quite complex and difficult to name. Reaching out for help is a constructive way to gain control of a challenging situation. I’ll help you explore and identify your strengths and how to implement them to reduce the influence of the problems you are facing.

How often will we meet? How long do services typically last?

I usually meet with clients once a week, initially, for the first several weeks and then we reassess how that frequency is working. Psychotherapy and coaching are like going to the gym…consistency and momentum really make a difference, especially in the beginning. I work with clients as long as they believe the service is helping them. Some clients work with me for as little as a couple of months, while others have been working with me for years. Ultimately, we let the progress on your goals guide the answer to these questions.

Will you talk with anyone else about our work together?

This is a question we’ll discuss in our first meeting. Sometimes clients want me to talk with their doctors, place of employment, schools or other individuals involved in their care. Our sessions are protected under therapist-client confidentiality laws, but there are exceptions to these laws when someone’s life is in danger, abuse of a child or older adult is in question or when you give me signed permission to speak with someone.

How does it work? What do I have to do in or between sessions?

Because each person has different issues and goals for counseling, it will be different depending on you and your specific needs. In session, I encourage clients to be curious, open and honest…even when it’s hard. There will be times when I will encourage you to engage in homework around your goals to either reinforce and develop skills we’ve discussed in session or to give you experiences aimed at increasing your confidence and motivation.