The less aware we are of our thoughts, feelings, motives and behaviors, the more they control us. Psychotherapy helps clients understand their “stories”; the experiences that shaped them, the defenses that have helped protect them and the patterns or habits that are now preventing them from living a satisfying life. Psychotherapy is a dialogue. The client presents data, the therapist offers ideas about its meaning, the client responds with his/her interpretation, and so on. It is important that psychotherapy progresses at a pace that is comfortable and safe for the client. Change can feel frightening or overwhelming and may not occur quickly.

In therapy, you will probably feel a good bit of relief at first, just the relief of being listened to, being able to vent about things, and that therapy isn’t too weird or torturous. Then, as you explore the difficulties you’ve had or are having, you may feel a little worse as you explore those; you may feel worse, at least intermittently for quite a while. But you start to feel better, sometimes you learn a helpful coping strategy, or you have an insight about how a way your mom or dad treated you when you were young has affected you for a very long time. So, you’ll feel a lot of ups and downs, but you feel better and better.

In therapy, you will probably feel a good bit of relief at first, just the relief of being listened to, being able to vent about things, and that therapy isn’t too weird or torturous. Then, as you explore the difficulties you’ve had or are having, you may feel a little worse as you explore those; you may feel worse, at least intermittently for quite a while. But you start to feel better, sometimes you learn a helpful coping strategy, or you have an insight about how a way your mom or dad treated you when you were young has affected you for a very long time. So, you’ll feel a lot of ups and downs, but you feel better and better.

We do not prescribe any medications as therapists and social workers. Psychotropic medication is prescribed by Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners, the designations are MD and ARNP respectively.  We are familiar with medications but are not able to give guidance or tell another practitioner what to prescribe to you. We often communicate with medication prescribers if you request us to do so to help them better help you.

Several benefits are possible 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, body image issues and creative blocks. Many people also find that counselors can be a tremendous asset to managing personal growth, interpersonal relationships, family concerns, marriage issues, and the hassles of daily life. Therapists can provide a fresh perspective on a difficult problem or point you in the direction of a solution. The benefits you obtain from therapy depend on how well you use the process and put into practice what you learn. Some of the benefits available from therapy include:  Attaining a better understanding of yourself, your goals and values Developing skills for improving your relationships Finding resolution to the issues or concerns that led you to seek therapy Learning new ways to cope with stress and anxiety Managing anger,  grief, depression, and other emotional pressures Improving communications and listening skills Changing old behavior patterns and developing new ones Discovering new ways to solve problems in your family or marriage Improving your self-esteem and boosting self-confidence

Yes. We request 48 hours’ notice to reschedule or cancel an appointment. A minimum of 24-hour notice of cancellation is required. Appointments cancelled less than 24 hours prior to a scheduled appointment will be billed at my full fee rate.

If you are in crisis, and are having trouble reaching me, call 9-1-1 or go to your nearest emergency room immediately.