Common Questions About Therapy
What Can I Expect in a Therapy Session? Every therapy session is different and catered to the individual concerns and specific goals. During therapy sessions it is common to discuss the primary issues and concerns in your life. It is common to schedule a series of weekly or bi-weekly sessions (each session lasting 50 minutes). Therapy can be short or long term depending on the individuals goals. There may be times where you will be asked to take certain actions outside the therapy session such as reading a particular book or keeping notes on certain things. For therapy to be the most beneficial, you must be an active participant, both during and outside of sessions.
What Benefits Can I Expect from Working with a Therapist? Therapy can provide insight and new perspectives on life and its challenges. Many people find that working with a therapist can enhance personal development, improve work and outside relationships, and can ease the challenges of daily life. Some other benefits of therapy include: lower stress and anxiety levels, modification of unhealthy behavior, attaining insight into personal behaviors and relationships improving ways to handle loss through grief or other forms of loss, helping you develop skills needed to handle anger, stress, depression etc.
What About Confidentiality? In general, the law protects the confidentiality of all communications between a client and a psychotherapist. Information is not disclosed without written permission. However, there are number of exceptions to this rule. Exceptions include:
* Suspected child abuse or dependent adult or elder abuse. The therapist is required by law to report this to the appropriate authorities immediately.
* If a client is threatening serious bodily harm to another person/s. The therapist must notify the police and inform the intended victim.
If a client intends to harm himself or herself. The therapist will make every effort to enlist their cooperation in insuring their safety. If they do not cooperate, further measures may be taken without their permission in order to ensure their safety.
Is There Paperwork Involved? Yes. Please arrive to your appointment 15 minutes early to have plenty of time to complete paperwork, or you can download the forms below and fill them out prior to your appointment.