I’ve never talked to anyone. I’m used to handling things on my own. Aren’t people who go to therapy weak?

Not at all. People who ask for help know when they need it and have the courage to reach out. Everyone needs help now and then. In our work together, I’ll help you explore and identify your strengths and how to implement them to reduce the influence of the problems you are facing.

What’s the difference between talking to you or my best friend or family?

Best friends and family are irreplaceable, and central to quality self-care. I’m really good at being non-judgemental. I also have the luxury of being an unbiased advocate on your behalf. A mental health professional can help you approach your situation in a new way– teach you new skills, gain different perspectives, listen to you without judgment or expectations, and help you listen to yourself. Furthermore, counseling is completely confidential.

Why shouldn’t I just take medication?

Medication can be great. We can talk about how to work with a psychiatrist in order to get the most out of it. I can provide lots of information on medication to help you make decisions around your treatment in this area. Pragmatically, studies have shown time and again that therapy is needed to get to the root cause of psychiatric distress. Medication is meant to relieve enough of your symptoms to then address them at this internal level.

How does it work? What do I have to do in sessions?

Mostly, you have to be willing to talk and sometimes sit with difficult emotions. I’ll be there for you in that. With the slightest, teensiest bit of willingness to change, you will find yourself doing the work and you will see change.

How long will it take?

Therapy can be short term and directed to solving a specific goal, or it can be more supportive, formative and longer-term. The length of therapy is entirely up to you and whether or not you feel your situation has been addressed as thoroughly as you like.

I want to get the most out of therapy. What can I do to help?

Your active participation and dedication is crucial to your success. Doing homework in between sessions will boost your return. Increasing your ability to sit with difficult emotions and learning how to identify them will also super-charge your work.