What can I expect from therapy? Overall, some things you can expect out of therapy:
• Compassion, respect and understanding
• Perspectives to illuminate persistent patterns and negative feelings
• Real strategies for enacting positive change
• Effective and proven techniques along with practical guidance

Is therapy confidential? Confidentiality is key to a successful therapeutic relationship, and to the client’s work. No information is disclosed without written permission from the client. However, there are some exceptions required by law to this rule. Exceptions include:

1. Suspected child abuse or dependent adult or elder abuse.
2. If a client is threatening serious bodily harm to another person.
3. If a client intends to harm themself.

Therapy has not worked for me in the past, so how do I know it can be helpful now? There are several reasons therapy may not be successful for a client, and this is important for us to explore up front to better insure that your experience with me can be different. If I believe referring you to a different provider would best meet your needs, I will do so. From my experience, therapy is often not successful if the therapist and client fail to develop a trusting and genuine working relationship.

How long will I be in therapy? This depends on your goals and the concerns you want to address. Some clients have short-term goals for issues that can be resolved in a few sessions. Others may have more complex, long-term problems that have burdened them for many years. We will frequently assess our work to ensure your goals are being met.

I want to attend marital therapy with my partner, but they will not come. What should I do? It is important to do what you can to help yourself when your partner will not accompany you, while not losing sight that effective relationship therapy typically involves both parties. It can help to let your partner know that you are seeking therapy to change how you relate to them, and would willingly and strongly support their involvement when, and if, they chose to join. As you address your needs and emotions, you may find that you are more open and empathetic to your partner, and identify healthier ways to communicate.

Do you accept insurance? I don’t accept insurance. However, some insurance companies will reimburse you or will count the cost of sessions toward your deductable. Contact your insurance company for more information about what they can offer. If needed, I can provide a session receipt for documentation of services rendered.