FAQs

How does therapy work? What exactly happens in therapy?

You may be familiar with the image of a patient on a couch free associating while a therapist nods along silently. While therapy is intended to be a safe space for you to explore and express your concerns, experiences, and feelings; it is also a place where we actively collaborate to identify where you would like to see positive change happen and introduce interventions that might help you meet your goals. We work together to help you relate differently to difficult feelings and thoughts, improve your relationships with others, and make behavioral changes that can help you live a better life.

How often should I come to therapy?

Therapy is most effective when it is consistent. In my clinical experience, a weekly 50 minute session allows us to build momentum toward positive change and meeting your goals. Some clients prefer more frequent sessions when things are challenging and others prefer less frequent sessions. You and I will work together to determine what is most appropriate for you.

How long does therapy take?

There is no one answer to this one. It really depends on your goals and the amount of work you would like to do. Some clients come to therapy with a specific timeframe and goals that they wish to address. Others may wish to do long term, deeper work around their core beliefs and histories or resolve traumas that still feel very present in their lives. You and I will collaborate as a team to ensure that you are making progress. I regularly check in to see if we are meeting your goals and to identify when you are ready to finish therapy. Keep in mind that progress also depends on what happens outside of therapy. We will often consider actions that you can take between sessions to move you forward.

How will I know if therapy is working?

I think there are two important actions to ensure therapy works: setting goals and ongoing collaboration. First, we start in early sessions by identifying your goals and the kinds of change you would like to see. What will you observe that will be different in your life as therapy progresses? Getting clear on measurable outcomes helps ensure that our work is on track. Second, throughout therapy you and I will be working as a team, collaborating on your treatment and checking in to see if things are working and you're seeing positive change. If you feel like things are stuck or not moving, then we collaborate and identify new ways to move you forward.

Is your work based in research?

I believe all therapy is about creating positive change. The good news is that there is a lot of research on how people can improve their relationships, manage anxiety, depression and other issues, and create healthier behaviors in their lives. I think it is important to focus on and utilize what actually works to make positive change happen. My job as a therapist is twofold: to work with you in ways that research shows to be effective, and to constantly innovate by receiving training in the newest research and bringing it to our sessions when it is appropriate.

How do I get started?

Schedule a free 20 minute phone or video consultation. We will discuss your goals and I can answer any questions you have about how I work or about my practice. If we decide to work together we can schedule a session and I’ll send you an email invitation to complete my online intake paperwork.