Therapy? What is it and how can it help me?

Therapy, psychotherapy, counseling, they all pretty much mean the same things and are used interchangeably. No matter which name is used, each persons experience will be different. Problems will not be the same, reactions won’t be the same and goals won’t be the same. In general, you can expect to discuss the current events happening in your life as well as things that have happened in your past.

Therapists can provide support, teach problem-solving skills, and enhance coping strategies for issues such as depression, anxiety, relationship troubles, unresolved childhood issues, grief, stress management, body image issues just to name a few. 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:

• Improving your self-esteem and boosting self-confidence

• Developing skills for improving your relationships

• Learning new ways to cope with stress and anxiety

• Managing anger, grief, depression, and other emotional pressures

• Improving communications and listening skills

• Changing old behavior patterns and developing new ones

Why not just talk to my family or my closest friends?

Family and friends can be great supporters. They at times will give great advice; maybe even tell you exactly what you want to hear. They have an invested interest; they love you and its personal for them. Therapists can provide an objective ear, with no expectations or judgments. They will listen to you and work through all scenarios, risks and benefits. You can be assured that what you share will be between you and your therapist only.

Will I get better quickly?

This is not a question that can be answered simply. Most people who decide to seek therapy want to feel better immediately. Depending on the circumstances therapy can be short term or long term. Progress will require work from your therapist, but also you too. It will depend on your motivation, your goals, your reasoning for seeking therapy in the first place and most importantly your ability to put in the work outside of the therapy sessions. Typically therapy begins as weekly and is adjusted as you progress.

Will I have to take medication?

Medication is not a requirement to participate in therapy. It can be effective in treating your symptoms. In therapy we will work to get to the root of your symptoms, identifying behaviors that aren’t useful and developing strategies to target those behaviors.

It is true that depending on the particular circumstances, therapy in conjunction with medication might be indicated. As a therapist, I am not a medical doctor and cannot give medical advice or prescribe medications.

Who has to know what we talk about?

Therapy sessions are confidential; strictly between you and your therapist. In the event that information is to be shared, it will only be shared with your written consent. However, there are some exceptions required by law to this rule. If you tell me of any unreported child or elder abuse, I am required by law to report this information. If you threaten to harm yourself or harm someone else, I am required to disclose this information.