frequently asked questions about therapy:

There are times in everyone's life when we can feel like we're overwhelmed, depressed, struggling to cope with some issue or issues in our lives. That's a natural, normal part of the human condition. 

Mental health counseling is for anyone who's struggling with emotional difficulties, life challenges, or mental health concerns. 

 Therapy can help people improve the symptoms of a variety of mental health issues. In therapy, people can learn new ways to cope with various life challenges and difficulties with improved skill and efficacy.

  Therapy also offers a safe place to talk through life challenges such as breakups, family struggles, generational cycles of dysfunction, past trauma, life transitions like divorce or bereavement. Therapy can also offer a loving and warm space to experiment with new ways of being, thinking and relating to ourselves and others. 

The American Psychological Association suggests that therapy may be appropriate  when something causes distress and interferes with some part of life, particularly when:

• You spend an hour or more a day thinking about or struggling to cope with the issue 
• The issue causes embarrassment or makes you want to avoid others
• The issue has caused your quality of life to decrease
• The issue has negatively affected school, work, or relationships
• You’ve made changes in your life or developed habits to cope with the issue

Medications absolutely can be useful! I am 100% in favor of better living through modern chemistry. 

However, research shows that medications are most effective when combined with therapy which teaches people skills to address symptoms on their own.  

These skills last after therapy ends, and symptoms may continue to improve, making it less likely people will need further treatment.  

 When you're searching for a therapist, you want to make sure they have the tools to solve your issues. You can ask them about their education, certifications, and specializations.  A therapist can also talk to you about what kind of approach they take to therapy and whether there are specific techniques they use in their work. Many therapists will include this information on their website, which can give you an idea of what to expect once you’re in a session.  

Notice how it feels when you talk to a potential therapist. It's natural to feel some anxiety when talking to a potential therapist, but you want to also feel good about working with them. Therapy isn't and can't be a "one size fits all" sort of deal. Finding the right fit is important to your long term success. Don't be afraid to check out all your available options. 

Different therapists often have different rates which are based on a variety of factors including licensing status, areas of specialization and specific types of treatment modalities. 

However, that being said, it shouldn't be a mystery and it's not something you should be afraid to ask about up front. 

Here are my rates effective 12/01/20: 

• Individual Therapy - $135/ hour  (50 min. session + 10 min. for clinical notes)
• Couples/Relationship/Family Therapy - $150/hour  (50 min. session + 10 min. for clinical notes)
• Parental Reunification/Estrangement /Court ordered therapy - $200/hour