Frequently Asked Questions
How does therapy work?
Therapy looks a little different for everyone. We’ll talk about what brings you in, what you would like to be different, and what seems most important to focus on. Some sessions may be reflective, while others may be more practical or focused on a current situation.
How long will therapy take?
There isn't a set timeline. Some people come to therapy for support with a particular situation, while others prefer longer-term work. We can talk about what makes sense for you and revisit that as things change.
How can I get the most out of therapy?
There’s no need to come to each session knowing exactly what you want to talk about. Being open about what’s going on—and what is or isn’t feeling helpful in therapy—can help us make the work more useful to you. Sometimes simply noticing what comes up between sessions can be helpful too.
Why shouldn’t I just take medication?
For some people, medication is helpful and may be an important part of their care. Therapy and medication serve different purposes, and they can also work well together. Decisions about medication are best discussed with a qualified medical provider.
What’s the difference between talking to you and talking to a friend or family member?
Friends and family can be incredibly important sources of support. Therapy provides a different kind of relationship—one where the time is specifically for you, the conversation is confidential, and there is space to explore things without worrying about taking care of the other person.
I’m used to handling things on my own. Does going to therapy mean I’m weak?
No. People come to therapy for all kinds of reasons, including simply wanting another perspective or a private place to think things through. You don't have to be in crisis to benefit from therapy.
Do I need to have a specific problem to start therapy?
No. You may know exactly what you want help with, or you may simply know that something doesn't feel right. Figuring out what you need can be part of the process.
I’ve already tried therapy before. How is this different?
Every therapist and therapeutic relationship is different. Previous therapy may have been helpful in some ways and less helpful in others. We can talk about what worked, what didn't, and what you're looking for now.
What if I tend to overthink or already understand myself well?
Self-awareness can be a real strength in therapy. At the same time, knowing why you do something doesn't necessarily make it easy to change. Therapy can give you room to explore both what you understand and what still feels difficult.
What if I’m not ready to make big changes?
You don't have to be. Therapy doesn't require you to make decisions or changes before you're ready. Sometimes understanding something more clearly is enough for the moment.
How do I know if this approach is a good fit for me?
That's something we can figure out together. An initial conversation gives you a chance to ask questions, tell me a little about what you're looking for, and get a sense of whether you feel comfortable moving forward.