What is the difference between counseling and psychotherapy?
The terms counseling and psychotherapy are often used interchangeably. Both involve a partnership between you and the counselor/therapist to make changes that improve the quality of your life and emotional health. Counseling is sometimes a short-term partnership to overcome a specific situation or symptom. Psychotherapy may be more long-term and focuses on gaining insight into patterns of feeling, thinking, and behaving that contribute to chronic life challenges or distress. I may use both terms to refer to our sessions since our work together will include elements of both counseling and psychotherapy that help you achieve the best personal outcomes.

Is therapy right for me?
If you’ve been struggling with life stressors, or if you are experiencing difficulties at home, in relationships, or at your job, therapy can help you overcome those challenges. I can support your efforts to overcome current problems and past hurts, improve confidence and self-esteem, and develop meaningful, healthy relationships.

What happens in a therapy session?
We will meet for about 50 minutes each session. Meetings may take place once a week or every other week depending on your needs and schedule. We will talk about your current stressors and successes and develop a plan to help you meet your goals. Therapy is your time to share the thoughts, emotions, and struggles that are holding you back from the kind of life you want to have. It will be important for you to practice the new skills you learn in therapy to see the best possible results. I may assign you homework in the form of worksheets, activities, journaling, or reading as a way for you to gain insight and achieve your goals.

Is everything I tell you confidential?
Information you share with me is confidential and I will not share it with anyone without your permission. There are a few exceptions to this, including in cases of child or elder abuse, or if you have threatened or intend to harm yourself or another person. I may also be required to share information if it is requested by an officer in a court of law. I will make every effort to notify you if a situation arises where I am legally required to share information about you.