How to find the right therapist for you?
Therapy is a collaborative process, so finding someone you can build a rapport with is critical. Your therapy process will not be constructive unless you feel comfortable with the therapist you choose. Prior to choosing a therapist, you might want to identify some important goals you want to address in a counseling setting. Having a good idea of what you need from therapy, will help you identify what specialties, experience and special training you are seeking in a therapist. You can then decide if a woman, a couples counselor, or a child therapist would be best.
Have a telephone interview with a prospective therapist. Ask them about their education, training, credentials, and approach to therapy. It might be important for you to find out if the therapist’s values are consistent with your values. Ultimately, you need to feel a high level of trust and comfort, knowing you have found the right therapist.
How many sessions will it take to solve our problems?
Each individual/family is unique and there is no average number of sessions. The duration of treatment depends on your situation and your goals. Some individuals/families come for just a few sessions, while others make a more long-term effort. The goal of our work is not to make therapy dependent. Rather we want to provide you with the skills and tools you need to navigate the challenges inherent in any close relationship and life event.
How often will we meet?
Weekly 50-minute sessions at the start of therapy help to build needed trust and comfort in the counseling relationship. Weekly appointments may also facilitate more active progress toward goals. As progress toward initial goals is made, it may be helpful to spread the sessions further apart. We will discuss what is right for you as we work together.
How do you protect our confidentiality?
Having a safe and private place to talk is of utmost importance to successful therapy. We want to assure you that all visits and records are confidential. No one will be notified of your participation in counseling unless you specifically request a release of this information in writing. It is important however, that you are aware that the law provides certain exclusions from confidentiality that include, but are not limited to: reported child, elder and dependent adult abuse; when a client makes a serious threat of violence towards a reasonably identifiable victim; when a client is dangerous to him/herself or the person or property of another; or when there is a court order.
If the issue of privacy and confidentiality worries you, be sure to ask us about it during our first meeting. It’s important to feel comfortable with your therapist so you can talk openly about your situation.