Is therapy confidential?
Yes. It is. However, there are certain exceptions to confidentiality. These include times when a client threatens to harm themselves, others, or when there is suspected child or elder abuse. During those times, protection of the public prevails over individual privacy and I am required to inform the appropriate authorities. It is important that you are aware of these important exceptions to therapeutic confidentiality.
What can I expect from the first session?
First sessions are known as intake sessions. These sessions are casual and comfortable. The purpose is to review the initial paperwork including covering informed consent, privacy, practice policies, and a verbal history of your goals, diagnoses, past treatment, and family history. At times, these administrative tasks may feel more clinical in nature but this helps provide important background information about who you are.
Does psychotherapy work?
Therapists bring expertise in understanding the human condition and are skilled in techniques designed to guide you toward achieving your goals. The process begins by getting to know you, allowing us to create a personalized plan in a supportive, non-threatening, and affirming environment. Together, we’ll set treatment goals, and you’ll receive practical "homework" to help you implement the strategies discussed in sessions. Don’t worry—there’s no grading involved! Homework simply means practicing the tools you’ve learned to make meaningful changes in your thoughts and behaviors. Psychotherapy, also known as counseling, is particularly effective in addressing anxiety, depression, anger, relationship challenges, trauma, grief, and existential concerns. Like improving physical fitness, enhancing emotional well-being requires effort and persistence. Progress varies from person to person, and if you ever feel stuck, discussing this with your therapist can be an important part of the process. Psychotherapy has helped countless individuals improve their happiness and overall quality of life. It’s no longer seen as just a tool for managing severe mental health conditions. Today, many high-functioning, successful people turn to psychotherapy to enhance both their personal and professional lives, using it as a resource for growth and self-improvement.