How do I know that you're the right therapist for me?
A relationship with a therapist is like any other, some relationships are good fits, others are clearly not. The only way we know is by working together. Keep in mind that good therapy working towards productive change doesn't always feel "good." Often people decide to see several different therapists and see who's a good fit. Keep in mind that the first session is not the same as subsequent sessions, so trying out a therapist for a minimum of three sessions is likely to give you the best idea about their ability to help.
What should I expect in the first appointment?
Being nervous to meet someone for the first time to discuss very personal matters is quite understandable. In our first session, you have the opportunity to ask me questions about how I work with people, become comfortable with the space, and since I have a Keurig, drink some coffee or tea!
I'll ask many questions about why you've come to therapy at this point in time, what your goals are, how you'd know when therapy was over, and generally get a sense of who you are, your needs, and your hopes.
Many of the questions are quite personal in nature, and to the extent it feels comfortable, the more information you can provide the better so that I'll have a sense of what I can do to help.
Because the first session is really a consultation, we'll both be free to determine whether or not to continue working together. I may also make recommendations for you.
Do you prescribe medication?No. The only person who can prescribe medications are medical doctors (which include psychiatrists), advanced practice nurses, and physician assistants. I do consult with client's doctor's if needed.
How long does therapy take?
Therapy takes as long as it needs to, anywhere from a few months to years. My theoretical orientation lends itself more towards brief therapy. We'll decide together when its time to end based upon the goals you have set for yourself. The good news, however, is that people often feel better after just a few sessions.
How does talking to a therapist help? I can talk to my friends for free.
Talk therapy is different from just chatting with a friend. It can often feel the same, and for many people, talking with a friend is the very best medicine. However, therapists are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions, and have been trained to use skills in conversation to help you achieve the goals you want. Therapists can also provide a more objective view of your situation, make recommendations, and give you undivided attention during a therapy session. And best of all, your information is confidential with few exceptions.
What are the exceptions to confidentiality?
I am required by state law to breech confidentiality if there is:
1. suspicion of child abuse or abuse towards adults that are considered protected (developmentally disabled, elderly)
2. a court order
3. concern that you are at imminent risk of hurting yourself or someone else
Additionally, if a third party is paying (insurance), they have access to your records and can review them at any time. Insurance companies often require a progress and treatment summary for additional sessions. If they deem you have made enough progress, or not enough progress, they can deny future sessions. If you have concerns about this, please discuss with me the pros and cons of paying privately.
I worry that if I talk to a therapist they'll think I'm crazy and put me in the hospital.
First of all, crazy is a pejorative term not found anywhere in the DSM and is widely open to interpretation. Second of all, long-term psychiatric hospitalization does not happen but in extreme cases. And insurance companies don't want to pay for it either. From time to time, hospitalizations do occur if a person is suicidal/homicidal or has a significant mental health issue requiring stabilization. They often tend to be a few weeks or less. Therapists and other mental health professionals seek to treat people in the least restrictive environment possible.