1. Do I really need therapy?
The decision to access therapy is a personal one. I have worked with many individuals who have successfully navigated many of life’s problems without the use of a therapist. However, there are times that the needs of the situation out weight the individual or family’s resources, coping strategies, and skill set. The following are signs that you may benefit from therapy:
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Overwhelming feelings of sadness or helplessness
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An inability to cope with everyday problems
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Difficulty concentrating on work or studies most of the time
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Drinking too much, taking drugs, or being aggressive to an extent that is harming themselves or others
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A sense that problems never improve, despite receiving help from friends and family
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Feeling constantly on edge or worrying unnecessarily
2. How can therapy help me?
Participation in therapy can result in a number of benefits to you, including improving interpersonal relationships and resolution of the specific concerns that led you to seek therapy. Therapists can provide support, problem-solving skills, and enhanced coping strategies for issues such as depression, anxiety, relationship troubles, unresolved childhood issues, grief, stress- management, trauma and substance issues. Many people also find that therapists can be a tremendous asset to managing personal growth, interpersonal relationships, family concerns, managing conflict in the home and restoring a sense of harmony within the family. Therapists can provide a fresh perspective on a difficult problem or point you in the direction to a solution. The benefits you obtain from therapy depend on how well you use the process and put into practice what you learn. Some of the benefits available from therapy include:
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Participants can gain a better understanding of themselves and their own goals and values, and can develop skills for improving relationships
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It can help to overcome specific problems
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Therapy can help individuals overcome pain from their pasts and develop coping strategies for the future
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A mental health professional may provide a fresh perspective on an issue. They can give people a better understanding of their own emotions
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Instilling hope and resiliency
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A greater understanding of family dynamics
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Managing anger, grief, depression, and other emotional pressures
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Improving communications and listening skills
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Changing old behavior patterns and developing new ones
3. How do I know if therapy is helping me?
Psychotherapy requires your very active involvement, honesty, and openness in order to change your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. I will ask for your feedback and views on your therapy, its progress, and other aspects of the therapy and will expect you to respond openly and honestly. Sometimes more than one approach can be helpful in dealing with a certain situation. If other professionals are involved, I will regularly consult and strategize with your care team. Therapy is a dynamic process. There is no “one size fits all.” I am flexible and collaborative in helping you find possible solutions to your problems.
4. Do I need medication?
In some cases a combination of medication and therapy is the right course of action. A referral to a psychiatrist for an evaluation can be made if needed. It is well established that the long-term solution to mental and emotional problems and the pain they cause cannot be solved solely by medication. Instead of just treating the symptom, therapy addresses the cause of our distress and the behavior patterns that curb our progress. I may consult regularly with your psychiatrist if you are taking medications. You can best achieve sustainable growth and a greater sense of well-being with an integrative approach to wellness.
5. Is therapy confidential?
In general, the law protects the confidentiality of all communications between a client and psychotherapist. No information is disclosed without prior written permission from the client.
However, there are some exceptions required by law to this rule. Exceptions include:
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Suspected child abuse or dependent adult abuse. The therapist is required to report this to the appropriate authorities immediately.
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If a client is threatening serious bodily harm to another person. The therapist is required to notify the police.
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If a client intends to harm himself or herself. The therapist will make every effort to work with the individual to ensure their safety. However, if an individual does not cooperate, additional measures may need to be taken.
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If you are being seen by other professionals, it is beneficial for your care team to be collaborative and as a team your case may be discussed. However, there will be a signed consent form in place by you allowing what types of communication, the purpose, and length the consent will be valid.