Is therapy right for me?

Psychotherapy is not easily described in general statements. It varies depending on the personalities of the therapist and the client, and the particular problems you bring forward. In order for therapy to be most successful, you will need to work on ideas discussed both during our sessions and at home.

 

Psychotherapy has benefits and risks. Since therapy often involves discussing unpleasant aspects of your life, you may experience uncomfortable feelings. On the other hand, psychotherapy has also been shown to have benefits for those invested. Therapy often leads to improved relationships, solutions to specific problems, and significant reductions in feelings of distress.

 

There are no guarantees of what you will experience or the desired outcome.

Your motivation and commitment to the process has a tremendous impact on whether or not you find therapy to be a helpful experience.

 

How long will I need therapy?

The duration of therapy is something that is very difficult to predict. Some clients may get the help they need in only a few sessions, while others may choose to continue therapy for several months or years. It is common to schedule a series of weekly sessions, where each session lasts around fifty minutes.

 

What if I have questions or concerns during therapy?

You have the right to ask questions about anything that happens in therapy. It is important that we frequently discuss our relationship and any concerns you may have, so that we can work through them, or I can provide a referral. You can request that I refer you to someone else if you decide that I am not the right therapist for you. You are free to leave therapy at any time.

 

What is therapy like?

Each therapy session is unique and will be a different experience for each individual. It is standard for therapists to discuss the primary issues and concerns in your life during therapy sessions.

 

During the first session, which is called an “intake” appointment, you will be asked basic questions concerning what brought you to therapy, what you hope to gain from this experience, present symptoms, and the like.

 

Please feel free to discuss this with me further if you have any questions or concerns.

 

Is therapy confidential?

Therapists understand that for individuals to feel comfortable sharing private and revealing information, they need a safe place to talk, without fear of that information leaving the room. Laws are in place to protect communications between a client and psychotherapist.

Information discussed in the therapy session is held confidential and will not be shared without written permission. There are, however, some situations written into law that deny me complete control over confidentiality of communication as follows:

 

• Suspected abuse or neglect to children, elderly, or the disabled. The therapist is required to report this to the appropriate authorities immediately.

• If a client intends to harm himself or herself. The therapist will make every effort to ensure safety of the individual. If an individual does not cooperate, additional measures may need to be taken.

• If a client is threatening serious bodily harm of another person, the therapist is required to notify the police.

• If a client reports sexual contact with another therapist.

• If the therapist receives a court order, the therapist may be required to release information.

 

What if I have an emergency?

My practice is not setup for crisis care. If you need immediate attention, go to your nearest emergency room, call 911, or call one of the following hotlines: 512-472-HELP (4357) or 800-273-TALK (8255)