Do I really need therapy? I can usually handle my problems.
When any type of mental health or emotional concern affects daily life and function, therapy may be recommended. Therapy can help you learn about what you’re feeling, why you might be feeling it, and how to cope. Therapy also offers a safe place to talk through life challenges such as breakups, grief, parenting difficulties, or family struggles.
What can I expect out of the first session?
The first therapy session is considered a "consultation". During the fist session, you'll be oriented to the process, explore goals for the counseling process, and be asked questions about your background and current difficulties. An intake assessment is conducting on the first visit. It's an opportunity to establish direction for the process and to determine whether or not you feel like you've found a good fit. We'll then discuss availability for future sessions and schedule our next meeting if this is something you've decided you'd like to do. From there, we'll start working together on a plan to create positive changes in your life.
How long does therapy last?
The duration of therapy varies widely by individual. Some people come for 6-12 weekly sessions and other people stay in therapy for months or years. Variables that impact the duration of therapy include:
- What kind of issues you are wanting to work on. Some people come to therapy for a “tune up” – to work on minor issues that can be resolved in a matter of weeks. Others have deeper issues that need to be resolved that take a much longer time to be fully processed and worked through. Therapy usually involves practicing new skills and learning new ways of thinking. Because unhealthy patterns develop over years, it’s reasonable to expect that establishing new habits and lasting change might take some time.
- Personal preference. Some people come to therapy with a very solution-focused mindset. They want to talk through and work out issues and move on. Others find that the opportunity to meet with a therapist regularly and ongoing, provides for a good outlet and helps provide stress relief, emotional support, and balance.
How can I prepare for my first therapy session?
Before the first session you will likely need to fill out some paperwork, including:
- HIPPA forms
- Insurance Information
- Therapist-patient services agreement
- Record release form
- Your medical history, including current medications
- A questionnaire about your symptoms
If you feel uncomfortable answering any of the questions on paper, you can wait until you are with the therapist and answer the questions orally. You can also complete this paperwork at home prior to your first session.
Do I need a counseling session or mental wellness coaching?
In general, if you only want to focus on what you are dealing with right now, don’t want someone to ask you anything too personal, want help making action steps, and/or the area of life you are most concerned about is your career, mental wellness coaching might be a good choice.
If you are curious about breaking patterns of thinking and acting that have been plaguing your life for some time, what to feel understood at last, would like to raise your self-esteem and understand yourself, and want to figure out what you want in life and move towards it, counseling might be a good choice.
Will my discussion with the counselor be confidential?
Yes. All conversation and even the fact that you have seen a counselor is kept strictly confidential. With few exceptions, we do not communicate with your friends, parents, or family without your written consent. Learn more about our confidentiality policy.
