Services
Talk Therapy
Talk therapy is a type of therapy where we talk about what is going on in your life. The focus is on telling your story. We may talk about your past experiences, what is happening in your present day life and your hopes for the future. We can talk about anything that feels important to you or is troubling you. You may find that you know exactly what you’d like to discuss in therapy, that’s great! You may also feel uncertain; like you have an overall sense of feeling like something is wrong, but you struggle to define it. That’s also ok. Together, we can uncover the difficulties you experience and find ways for you to have relief and change.
WHAT TO EXPECT FROM A SESSION
We might compare therapy to a winding path. Together we will define a direction and a general goal (e.g. connect more in relationship, feel less anxious, make a difficult decision), but the path is not always straight in reaching that goal. Think of therapy as a process. Each session may feel slightly different yet somehow connected. In the first few sessions, I will be working to get to know you and your history. I will ask questions about your strengths, relationships, and stressors. As therapy progresses it should feel generally comfortable and like we both have a sense of direction.
There is no one-size fits all model in therapy. Each person is unique and needs their own unique therapy experience. I will work hard to understand YOUR story and you. For some, that may mean setting a really clear goal and then creating a plan to meet that goal. Others may use therapy to explore parts of their life that feel painful. Whatever it is that you need, we will create a therapy experience that is unique for you. And you ultimately are in control! You get to steer the ship. I’ll be an actively engaged co-captain on your journey towards self-discovery and healing.
HOW LONG DOES THERAPY TAKE?
A typical therapy session is 50-minutes long. I also offer 80-minute sessions for those who may want more time. Initially we would meet weekly and then over time could meet less often, if you chose. You may be asking yourself, “How long will I be in therapy?” That really depends! Remember that each person is different and that therapy can be a slow process. Sometimes our pain and distress comes from pretty complex sources in our lives. It takes time to understand that pain and build new patterns in life. Some may find relief in therapy after a few months. Others find that they really benefit from longer-term therapy. I typically find that once I start working with someone, they stick around because it helps! But together we will determine how long you want to be in therapy. It is ok to end therapy at any time. It’s also ok to take breaks from therapy and return when you have the time, energy, and resources to engage again. Investing in your mental health matters. Although it may seem like a big commitment, your mental health is worth it.
WHEN DOES IT END?
This again, is a really personal decision. I tend to ask the question, “when therapy is over, what will feel or be different in your life?” The answers to that question can help guide our therapy and determine a good stopping point. For some, they are looking for relief from anxiety or improved mood and once they begin to experience that relief, they are ready to stop therapy. For others, they appreciate having a regular and trusted place to talk about their life. They may choose to stay in therapy for a longer time. Throughout therapy, I will ask you how you are feeling about the experience. I will invite you to share when you feel ready to take a pause or to end therapy. Whenever you decide to end would be acceptable. Again, you are in control and get to decide how long you want to be in therapy!