Whether you are struggling with a major life transition, health concerns, relationship and family issues, anxiety, depression, or substance abuse, counseling can help. Individual psychotherapy offers you an avenue to focus on these struggles in a safe, healthy space. Your counselor will listen and help you develop insight into these areas of your life while establishing positive coping strategies that will work best for you and help you achieve your goals.
Face to face sessions will generally last 50 minutes and phone sessions 30 minutes unless other arrangements have been made between you and your therapist. In the first session you will complete forms and an assessment will occur. Identifying difficulties, symptoms, and goals for therapy will be the primary focus as well as developing a plan for future sessions.
Counseling is a collaborative relationship and while your therapist is here to guide you, you must play an active role. Be open and honest- explain your entire situation as you feel comfortable and your counselor will be able to guide you in the way that works best for you. If the therapist makes suggestions that do not fit your preferences, tell them! The goal is to work together to find the best strategies to improve your life and overall well being.
Developing an open, trusting relationship is integral to successful therapy. Choosing a counselor that is a good fit to is crucial. Sometimes a therapist's style or personality may not meet your needs. Please discuss this with your therapist and an appropriate referral can be made.