1. What can I expect to get out of therapy?
A: This depends on what your goals are for yourself, for your relationship with your partner, for your child, or for your family. In our first session we can talk about why you’re considering therapy, what you hope to gain from it, and how we can work together toward achieving your goals. Many people share that through therapy they feel happier and healthier in their relationships, they feel a stronger sense of self and empowerment, and gain an ability to cope with life challenges easier.
2. How long does therapy take?
A: This is a difficult question to answer because every client is different with different goals. Some clients achieve what they need in just a few sessions, others may need on-going support for months or years.
3. How will you work with me as an individual client?
A: As we get to know each other and build rapport, we’ll begin exploring your thoughts and feelings both from past and present. We’ll gently identify some of your relational patterns, traumas, emotional triggers, and how they impact your daily life. As we process these emotions within the support of the therapeutic relationship, you’ll begin to have a different experience within yourself, and effect change within your internal patterns and cycles.
4. How will you work with us as a couple?
A: We’ll begin by talking about your concerns, issues, and goals as a couple. It’ll be important to hear from both of you and for me to help you learn how to hear each other in the process. Together, we’ll explore your patterns of communication, what underlying emotions are triggering reactive parts in each of you, and practice how to resolve issues in a healthy and respectful way with each other.
5. How will you work with my child?
A: After an initial phone consultation, I’ll meet with you the parent(s) (and child if age appropriate) to discuss and assess the history of your child, your concerns and goals, and determine the best way to work with your child. Typically, I’ll work one on one with the child through nondirective play therapy or through talk therapy if age appropriate and meet with the parent(s) to discuss child’s progress and goals every 6-8 weeks if necessary.