Frequently Asked Questions
What should I expect?
Deciding to seek counseling is a big step. Here's what you can expect:
- Prior to your first session, you will complete an online comprehensive intake form.
- At your first session, your counselor will review your intake form and talk with you about your situation and symptoms.
- Together, you and your counselor will create individualized counseling goals.
- You and your counselor will regularly review your progress to assure the effectiveness of your counseling process.
- Treatment is always collaborative and your choices are respected.
Can you prescribe medication?
Professional counselors cannot and do not prescribe medication. In the course of therapy, if both the counselor and client believe that medication may be beneficial, your counselor may refer you to your family physician or a psychiatrist.
Why shouldn't I just take medication?
Medication alone cannot solve all issues. What medication does is treat the symptoms. Our work together is designed to explore the root of the issues, dig deep into your behavior and teach strategies that can help you accomplish your personal goals and faciliate growth and healing.
Is going to therapy a sign of weakness?
Exploring difficult emotions takes an immense amount of courage and inner strength. Going to therapy demonstrates your willingness to understand yourself and your determination to overcome your challenges.
Does what we talk about in therapy remain confidential?
Confidentiality is one of the most important components between a client and their counselor. Successful therapy requires a high degree of trust with highly sensitive subject matter. You will be provided with a copy of our confidentiality disclosure agreement and you can expect that what is discussed in session will not be shared with anyone.
State law and professional ethics require therapists to break confidentiality in the following situations.
- Suspected past or present abuse or neglect of children, adults and elders to the authorities, including Department of Social Services (DSS) and law enforcement, based on information provided by the client and collateral sources.
- If the therapist has reason to suspect the client is seriously in danger of harming him/herself or has threatened to harm another person.
How can therapy help me?
A number of benefits are available from participating in therapy. Therapists can provide support, problem-solving skills and enhanced coping strategies for issues such as depression, anxiety, relationship troubles, unresolved childhood issues, grief, stress management, insomnia, low self-esteem, negative thoughts about self, others and the world and creative blocks. Many people find that counselors can be tremendous assets to improving personal growth, interpersonal relationships, family issues, and the learning more effective ways of coping with life stressors. Therapists can provide a fresh perspective on a difficult problem or point you in the right direction towards a solution. The benefits you obtain from therapy depend on how well you use the process and put into practice what you learn.