Common Questions About Therapy
What can I expect in therapy?
Many people wonder what it might be like to come to therapy. Our first session together is a consultation session. This is a time for me to get to know you, and for you to experience working with me. Research has shown that the relationship or connection a person has with their therapist is essential to the degree to which a person feels improvement in therapy. The therapeutic relationship has a greater impact than the therapist’s training, the type of therapy they practice, or the presenting problems of the client.
People seek therapy for a variety of reasons, so individual experiences will differ. Generally speaking, you can expect to discuss the events that lead you to therapy, everyday life challenges, relevant personal history, and report new insights or progress from the previous therapy session. Based on your specific needs, therapy can be short-term or long-term. This is often dependent on the issues that bring you to therapy or come up in sessions.
How can therapy help me?
Many benefits come from participating in therapy. For example, therapists can provide support, problem-solving skills, and enhanced coping strategies for issues such as depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, grief, stress management, body image issues, and navigating life transitions.
People also find that therapists can support in managing personal growth, interpersonal relationships, family concerns, and the challenges of daily life. Therapists are able to provide a fresh perspective on a difficult problem or guide you toward a solution. Therapy is an active process and you will most likely notice the benefits of the therapeutic process the more you are able to put into practice what you learn. Some of the benefits you may feel from therapy are:
Better understanding of yourself, your goals, and values
Developing skills to help improve the relationships in your life
Finding resolution or peace with the issues or concerns that led you to therapy
Learning new ways to cope with stress and anxiety
Managing emotions such as anger, grief, and depression
Improving communications and listening skills
Changing behavior patterns that no longer serve you
Developing healthier habits
Improving your sense of self-worth and boosting self-compassion
How can I prepare for my therapy sessions?
One important key to therapy is that you will get better results if you are an active participant in the process. The ultimate desired outcome of therapy is that you feel improvement with your overall well-being and relationships. To help with this, it is beneficial for you bring what you learn within sessions into your life. Your therapist may suggest things you can do between sessions to support your process, such as journaling on specific topics, practicing mindfulness, observing personal behaviors, or actively working toward your goals.
People seeking therapy are typically ready to make positive changes in their lives and are open to new perspectives. To best do this, I suggest that you give yourself some time throughout the week and just before our session to think about what you would like to talk about during our time together. If possible, find time to ground yourself in your thoughts before the session. If we meet virtually, find a quiet, private space to meet where you feel safe.
My hope for you is that you find a therapist that you connect with as you embark on your healing journey.
