Frequently Asked Questions

Psychotherapy will help you better understand and change what is not working in your life. Psychotherapy alleviates problems. Talking with a therapist is very different than talking with a family member or friend. A psychotherapist is trained to listen differently and explore the causes of distress and conflicts. Therapy is also completely confidential.

A counselor hears your confusion and pain and will help you to see the obstacles standing between you and a more fulfilling life and happiness. Psychotherapy gives new insights and tools in managing family conflicts, marital issues, relationships, personal growth, and the stress of daily life.

I will ask that you our unique therapy relationship to explore your thoughts, feelings and behaviors from another perspective. During sessions you will talk about the concerns and problems in your life. A session lasts 50 minutes, and regular sessions offer continuity and best results for change. During the time between sessions it is beneficial to think about the session, the process, and what was discussed.

I can provide new perspectives on difficult problems and point you in the direction to solutions. You will begin to feel better about yourself and be more able to solve difficult problems, make better decisions, and feel more in control of your life. Painful thoughts and feelings will be relieved, and you will see yourself in a new and better way.

I work to create a trusting, confidential and non-judgmental relationship.  By talking through everything that is on your mind, by putting your thoughts and feelings into words without feeling dismissed or judged, and by receiving professional advice and honest, caring feedback, change happens.

My clients enter therapy for many different reasons, for a specific problem or to explore and understand problems that have lasted for years.  Most often people are struggling in relationships and want to understand others and themselves better.  My clients may want help with:

• Depression and mood fluctuations
• Stress and anxiety
• Repeating the same mistakes in relationships
• Self-esteem and self-confidence
• Eating disorders and body image concerns
• The aftermath of a traumatic experience or child abuse
• Loss and grief
• Infidelity
• Life transitions: new relationships, divorce, illness, parenthood

I promote attention to your physical and nutritional health and will consider your therapy with a mind-body approach. The combination of counseling and medication can be very effective when used concurrently. This combination can be especially helpful in alleviating anxiety, depression and mood fluctuations. I may recommend consultation with a psychiatrist if I think medication would be beneficial, and I will collaborate with that doctor on your behalf.

I provide individual therapy, for adolescents and adults, and couples therapy.

That depends on your goals, personal history, your interest in personal growth, and factors impacting your start in counseling. Everyone’s circumstances are unique. Some therapy is short-term (a few weeks or months), and deals more with immediate challenges. Longer-term therapy (months to years) can be lengthier when dealing with long standing issues.