How can therapy help me?

A number of benefits are available from participating in therapy. Psychoanalytic psychotherapy can help with all sorts of issues such as depression, anxiety, relationship troubles, unresolved childhood traumas, grief, stress management, body image issues, and creative blocks. Many people also find that therapists can be a tremendous asset to managing personal growth, interpersonal relationships, family concerns, marriage issues, and the hassles of daily life. The benefits you obtain from therapy depend a lot on how good of a fit it is between patient and therapist, how much you participate in the process, and what you may be ready for at this particular time in your journey. Although we may not focus directly on concrete skills and problem-solving, as a result of our deeper work some of the benefits available from therapy include:

• Attaining a better understanding of yourself, your goals and values

• Developing skills for improving your relationships

• Finding resolution to the issues or concerns that led you to seek therapy

• Learning new ways to cope with stress and anxiety

• Managing anger, grief, depression, and other emotional pressures

• Improving communications and listening skills

• Changing old behavior patterns and developing new ones

• Discovering new ways to solve problems in your family or marriage

• Improving your self-esteem and boosting self-confidence

Do I really need therapy? I can usually handle my problems.

Everyone goes through challenging situations in life, and while you may have successfully navigated through other difficulties you've faced, there's nothing wrong with seeking out extra support when you need it. In fact, therapy is for people who have enough self-awareness to realize they need a helping hand, and that is something to be admired. You are taking responsibility by accepting where you're at in life and making a commitment to change the situation by seeking therapy. Therapy provides long-lasting benefits and support, giving you more opportunities to learn how to avoid triggers, re-direct damaging patterns, and overcome whatever challenges you face.

Why do people go to therapy and how do I know if it is right for me?

People have many different motivations for coming to psychotherapy. Some may be going through a major life transition (unemployment, divorce, new job, etc.), or are not handling stressful circumstances well. Some people need assistance managing a range of other issues such as low self-esteem, depression, anxiety, addictions, relationship problems, spiritual conflicts, and creative blocks. Others may be at a point where they are ready to learn more about themselves or want to be more effective with their goals in life. In short, any reason for coming to therapy is meaningful.

What is therapy like?

Because each person is different, therapy will vary depending on the individual. In general, you can expect to share whatever is on your mind as freely and openly as you can so we can get to know you as deeply as possible. Depending on your specific needs and desires, you may stay in therapy for as long or short as feels right to you. Either way, it is important to meet for regular sessions with (usually 1-4 times weekly).

What about medication vs. psychotherapy?

It is well established that the long-term solution to mental and emotional problems and the pain they cause cannot be solved solely by medication. Instead of just treating the symptom, therapy addresses the cause of our distress and the behavior patterns that curb our progress. You can best achieve sustainable growth and a greater sense of well-being with an integrative approach to wellness. Working with your medical doctor, ideally a psychiatrist, you can determine what's best for you, and in some cases a combination of medication and therapy is the right course of action.

What if I want to try to use my insurance?

To determine if you have mental health coverage through your insurance carrier, the first thing you should do is call them. Check your coverage carefully and make sure you understand their answers. Some helpful questions you can ask them:  

• What are my mental health benefits?

• What is the coverage amount per therapy session?

• How many therapy sessions does my plan cover?

• How much does my insurance pay for an out-of-network provider?

• Is approval required from my primary care physician? 

Does what we talk about in therapy remain confidential?

Confidentiality is one of the most important components between a patient and psychotherapist. Successful therapy requires a high degree of trust with highly sensitive subject matter that is usually not discussed anywhere but the therapist's office. Every therapist should be up front about confidentiality, and you can expect that what you discuss in session will not be shared with anyone. This is called “Informed Consent." Sometimes, however, you may want your therapist to share information or give an update to someone on your healthcare team (such as your Physician or Psychiatrist), but by law your therapist cannot release this information without obtaining your written permission. However, state law and professional ethics require therapists to maintain confidentiality except for situations of child or elder abuse and threats of serious harm.