Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if I really need therapy?

Although this can vary from person to person, you may benefit from seeing a licensed professional when the way you feel begins to negatively impact your daily life (e.g., sleep, appetite, job, relationships, judgement, concentration, loss of opportunities, etc.).

Why shouldn’t I try to just work through this on my own?

It can be easy to put off seeking out help for something that’s negatively impacting the way we feel. In fact, the decision to get help can actually be extremely difficult for many people. Often times we dismiss feelings of anxiety, emotional pain, relationship stress, or depression as “just life” – even to the point of encountering real difficulty in normal day-to-day functioning. Deciding to take responsibility for your mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being is an empowering first step. The first step of reaching out can have a surprisingly positive effect on your outlook.

What does professional therapy provide?

Professional counseling provides you with the opportunity to learn, heal, and grow.  It also establishes the fact that you are not alone in your struggles or difficulties. Life can be hard and difficult circumstances are sometimes beyond our control, but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Therapy sets you up to succeed and to begin making lasting changes in your life.

What happens in a therapy session?

Since the needs and goals of every client are different, therapy sessions vary in format and approach. Sometimes clients come with an agenda or specific things they would like to address. Other times, people have an emotion that is bothersome, or persistent, negative thoughts they cannot shake. Sessions progress based on the needs of the client at the time, but active participation and collaboration is important. The more you put into your sessions, the more you will benefit.

Do I have to share things I do not want to?

Certain personal experiences or topics can be difficult to share, and that is normal (especially in the first few sessions). However, you may find an increased sense of safety and comfort with sharing as therapeutic rapport is established.  It is very important for us to build a trusting relationship and our sessions will always progress at a pace that you feel ready for. 

How long can the therapy process take?

Because therapy is tailored to a specific person, there is no pre-defined period of time for on-going therapy sessions. It is not uncommon for therapy to span several sessions over a period of weeks or months. Please know that it is my intention to get you to the point where you no longer feel the need for therapy. 

Individual sessions are generally 45-50 minutes in length.  Couples therapy sessions are generally 60 minutes in length.  Hypnotherapy or Rapid Resolution Therapy sessions are generally scheduled in 60, 120, or 180 minute increments due to the nature of the approach.

What if I need to cancel my appointment?

If you need to cancel your appointment, please contact me BY PHONE at least 24 hours in advance of your session. You will be financially responsible for the full session fee if you cancel your session with less than 24 hours notice.

Are therapy sessions confidential?

Yes. Your privacy is very important and you can trust that our sessions, as well as any of your personal information, is always held in the strictest of confidence. Additionally, anything you transmit over this website is highly secure, and stored data is HIPAA-compliant.  Confidential information disclosed in private therapy sessions is legally protected. However, there are some exceptions to this, including instances of suspected child or elder abuse, or when a client presents a serious danger of violence toward himself or herself or another person. If you would like to learn more about ethical standards and privileged communication exceptions, I can provide additional information at your request.