I’ve never been to therapy before. What can I expect at our first meeting?

The first meeting is usually an “assessment” ie questions to find out why you’ve come in and to decide on your “goals for therapy.”

Could my therapist share the things I tell her with others?

No. Due to HIPAA rules and regulations, your therapist can only share your information if you sign a release of information giving permission to do so. Exceptions would, of course, be a life threatening emergency, court order or admission of criminal activity.

What if I can’t always get to the office? Do you provide video sessions?

Yes!  Telehealth sessions are now an option for my mental health counseling clients. These video sessions are being conducted on a HIPAA compliant platform and are secure and confidential.

Will I have to take medication if I go to therapy?

Therapists cannot prescribe medication and the decision to see a psychiatrist for an evaluation is completely up to you.

How will I know when it’s time for me to try therapy?

Most people could benefit from a “mental health check-up” but the majority of my clients say they have been trying to work things out on their own for a long time. Only you know when you’re ready for a better quality of life. When work, home and/or school are being affected, this is also a good sign that you may benefit from therapy.

Why go to therapy when I can get the same advice from my friends?

Although friends and family may have the best intentions, they are not trained to be your therapist. Therapy is not about opinions and advice, it is about speaking to someone objective who is not emotionally involved and who will not judge you which is very therapeutic.

How do I know if I’ve chosen the right therapist for me?

Only you know if a therapist is a good fit but it is up to you to advocate for yourself and tell the therapist what you are hoping to get out of therapy. Some people just want to vent, others want more guidance and many want to learn coping skills and benefit from homework and reading suggestions.