People come into therapy for many reasons. Some need help responding to unexpected changes and crisis in their lives, while others have a need for self-exploration and personal growth. When our usual way of coping is ineffective we may seek other means of easing our discomfort. Therapy can provide support, problem-solving skills, and a new way of viewing our situation. The discomfort you experience may show up in numerous ways such as depression, anxiety, numbing or lack of emotion, lack of confidence, guilt, relationship issues, unresolved childhood issues, bereavement, spiritual conflicts, stress, body image issues and creative blocks. Therapy is most effective when the client is willing to take responsibility for their actions and become more self-aware.

What Can I Expect In A Psychological Therapy Session?

During a session, you have the opportunity to talk about the primary concerns and issues in your life. A session lasts approximately 50 minutes. You may request a longer session. Depending on your stress level and means of payment, weekly sessions are often beneficial in the beginning. When in crisis or extreme distress, more than one session per week may be necessary. During the time between sessions it is beneficial to think about and process your thoughts and feelings about the session. I may recommend homework to be completed between therapy sessions; such as reading material, journaling and keeping records. For therapy to most effectively, you must be willing to be actively involved, both in and outside of the therapy sessions.

What Benefits Can I Expect From Working With A Therapist?

A number of benefits are possible from participating in psychological therapy. Often it is helpful just to have someone listen to you - without judging or taking sides. Therapy can provide a new perspective on difficult issues and relief from overwhelming emotions. Occasionally, as we explore different parts of your life, you may be surprised to find yourself experiencing strong emotions over seemingly forgotten or old issues. This is not uncommon and is often helpful in uncovering feelings of being stuck. Many people find therapy to be a tremendous asset to managing personal growth, interpersonal relationships, family concerns, and the stresses of daily living. The benefits of therapy depends upon your readiness to confront the issues in your life and your willingness to practice what you learn.

Some of the benefits available from psychological therapy include . . .

What If I Don't Know What My goals Are For Psychological/Behavioral Therapy?

It is not unusual for people to come into therapy unclear about what it is that they really want or expect. Initially, most people come to therapy in crisis - you want the crisis to go away - you feel helpless and you want control of your life back! The goal at this stage is to provide you with the tools that will help you to get through the crisis.

When the crisis is over and/or you have a handle on it, you may think your work is done. Some people will stop therapy at that point, thinking that they got what they needed. They are now feeling able to survive, often until the next crisis.

If you want more than mere survival - if you are feeling dissatisfied with life, if you are noticing negative patterns in yourself and your relationships and wonder if there is a better way, if you are motivated to see that life can be different for you - this is where the real work begins.

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