Why should I consider seeing a therapist?
While thoughtful, loving advice from friends and family members can be helpful, it often falls short at identifying our problematic patterns of thinking and feeling. Therapy allows individuals to explore their deepest thoughts and fears, gain insight, and make lasting change in a safe, judgement-free environment.
What can I expect at our first session?
In our first session I will gain as much of an understanding as possible about you (or the both of you), your interests, desires, relationships, past counseling experiences, and future goals. This session may feel more "clinical", but it is important that I get a clear overall picture in order to efficiently move forward in building a working therapeutic relationship. Future sessions will feel much more collaborative and goal-oriented.
If there is nothing "abnormal" with our relationship, then why are we fighting all the time?
I view conflict as an expected part of any relationship. Because this conflict is inevitable, every relationship must address periods of conflict in order to grow and move forward. I will focus on many aspects of communication, shared meaning and understanding, trust, commitment, and a number of other aspects of the relationship. We will develop a plan together, and work towards common goals to increase intimacy and "connectedness".
Will insurance cover marriage/couples counseling?
Most insurance providers do not cover couples therapy, but I encourage you to reach out to your provider directly to find out if you have a benefit that offers this coverage.
I'm an athlete struggling with the impacts of an injury, how can you help me?
My greatest asset in working with athletes is my personal understanding of the commitment and focus necessary to perform at a high level, and what it means when goals are derailed by unforeseen circumstance. The fear, anxiety, and doubt can sap all motivation and energy to engage in the physical aspect of recovery and self-care. Because I have been there and experienced intense fear, depression, and anxiety about my own recovery, I can provide a truly understanding and empathic ear. Because of this, I provide a structured approach in which we will process unwanted emotions and fears, challenge negative thoughts, and create and implement a plan to recovery. To learn more about my approach with athletes, check out my blog here and here.
I'm not an athlete, but being physically active and independent is important, how can you help me?
Those who engage in an aggressive pursuit of competitive sport are not the only ones who can struggle with the mental and emotional impacts of an injury. In the same way that focused athletes, struggle with feelings of depression and anxiety, people who value being active as a part of their lifestyle may find they have the same feelings of depression and anxiety when they are faced with a lifestyle limiting injury. I approach all individuals, competitive or not, with the same compassion and empathy, and provide a structured process to aid in physical and emotional recovery.
How often do you see clients?
Generally, I recommend clients attend sessions once a week in order to address immediate concerns and gain momentum towards therapeutic goals. Most clients start to feel a renewed sense of hope, relief, encouragement, or positive change within the first three or four sessions.
How long should I expect to see you?
Time spent in counseling can vary greatly, but generally I see clients for three months to a year. While I believe counseling to be an extremely valuable endeavor, my primary goal is to work with clients toward an ultimate stability in self so when life's inevitable trials arrive, you are able to navigate them with confidence.
Is what we talk about confidential?
Every aspect of your counseling is kept confidential, but there are exceptions. If I feel you are in danger, someone else is in danger, there is evidence of child or elder abuse, or I am court-ordered, I will break confidentiality. However, this does not necessarily mean I will release all treatment records, but it may become necessary for me to disclose you are in treatment with me. I will go over this in great detail at our first session.
