WHAT IS PSYCHOTHERAPY?

Psychotherapy can be viewed as a process where mental and emotional difficulties of living are communicated between an individual and therapist. This is much more than talking about your problems, and is based on therapeutic principles, structure and technique, coupled with a supportive, therapeutic relationship between patient and therapist that is strictly professional and confidential.  Psychotherapy is not giving advice, but rather a collaboration between patient and therapist with a goal of increasing awareness and fostering insight.

COUNSELOR OR PSYCHOTHERAPIST?

These terms are often used interchangeably, and while there are similarities, it is important to note the differences.
Psychotherapy generally requires more skill and training than simple counseling and is conducted by professionals educated with a graduate degree or higher, along with post-graduate, supervised clinical work. While a psychotherapist is qualified to provide counseling, a counselor may or may not have the required training and skills to provide psychotherapy.

WHY CHOOSE PSYCHOTHERAPY?

People come to therapy to get help. The reasons for therapy are as unique and diverse as the individuals who seek it, but typically people come to find assistance they haven’t found in other areas of their life. Many individuals begin therapy with the sole purpose of understanding themselves better, for personal growth, increased awareness and freeing up energy to live more fully. Seeking help is a sign of strength.

But why do people go?

Mental Illness on the Rise in the U.S.

You may also consider therapy when you are:

    • Feeling generally unhappy-or wish you felt happier.
    • Feeling overwhelmed and your everyday functioning is hard.
    • Poor concentration and your interpersonal relationships and/or job performance suffers.
    • Facing a transition in life, such as divorce, job change, relocation, or a death of a loved one.
    • You or a family member are managing a chronic illness or disease.

WHAT CAN YOU EXPECT

The therapeutic relationship between patient and therapist is a special one. To help you assess whether or not we make a good connection, I offer a free 30-minute consult during which several decisions have to be made. I will decide if I can provide the services needed to treat your presenting problem(s).  You as a client must decide if you are comfortable with me, and then both of us must decide on your goals for therapy and how best to achieve them.