When To Consider Psychotherapy

Counseling is an effective way to explore and support changes you may wish to make in your life and/or relationships. Individual and couples therapies help people gain specific skills and strategies, explore interpersonal challenges, and gain insight into negative patterns and behaviors.

If you would like help with any of the following, therapy may be right for you.
  • Anxiety and Depression
  • Alcohol or Drug Problems
  • Communication in Relationships
  • Worries, Fears or Phobias
  • Past Abuse or Trauma
  • Coping with Grief or Loss
  • Difficulties with Motivation or Goal Setting

How does therapy work?

At your initial session you will discuss your current problems and determine if your therapist can help you. It is normal to feel nervous when starting therapy, but if you do not feel like your therapist is a good match for your particular concerns it is important to find someone you can trust and feel comfortable with.

The therapist will often assign homework between sessions. You may be asked to note particular emotions or thoughts that are evoked at different times in your day, or practice a new behavior in response to a situation that has been challenging for you.

You will meet with your therapist weekly for 45-60 minutes. During your first or second session you will plan with your therapist the amount of sessions that may be helpful to you. As you progress in individual therapy you may want to include family members or your significant other in your sessions for one or several meetings.

How will therapy help?

Therapy focuses on developing insight and building on your personal strengths. A professional therapist is state-licensed and extensively trained to guide you in improving the quality of life and enrich relationships. The therapeutic relationship is a unique opportunity to focus on your thoughts, needs and concerns. You should feel a sense of trust and safety during your sessions.

How long does therapy take?

The length of time you spend in therapy depends on many factors including the goals of treatment, the severity of the problem and your motivation during therapy. Often, you may seek therapy to resolve a crisis or to get support through a difficult time, and find that within a few weeks the primary reasons that brought you into therapy have been resolved. In other situations, you may discover pervasive patterns of feeling and behavior that you want to change and may spend several more months concentrating on these issues. Ultimately, the length of time spent in therapy is up to you! The therapist's role is to facilitate the decision-making process.