Faqs

Everyone goes through challenging times throughout life, and a counselor can provide support to you in these most difficult times. Ask yourself the following questions: Am I unhappy with my life? Do I feel stuck or unable to solve a problem that has been troubling me? Am I struggling with my relationships? Am I feeling overwhelmed by work, school, or my family life? Do I feel depressed? Am I going through a significant transition in life that is causing stress for myself and/or my family? Do I have unresolved issues from my past that still upset me? Do I feel anxious? Do I have anger outbursts that have a

negative impact on my relationships? If you answered yes to any of these questions, counseling may be able to help you resolve some of these problems and make positive changes in your life. Counseling isn’t just for those who are struggling though. Counseling may also be useful for those who want to thrive in life and can benefit from the value of having someone in their corner at all times helping them set and work towards goals.

How can counseling help?

As a counselor, I provide a safe and open environment where you can explore thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. We will work collaboratively to identify goals, solve problems, learn new coping skills, and improve your mental and emotional well-being. Counseling may also be useful in achieving personal growth and strengthening relationships. One of the most important factors influencing the effectiveness of counseling is a positive relationship between the counselor and the client. It is important that you feel safe, valued, and respected during your sessions and that you feel you can trust your counselor.

What should I expect in the first session?

The first session is a time for me to gather basic information about you and what brings you to counseling as well as a time for us to get to know each other. We will also review my privacy forms and consent to treatment and collaborate to develop the most effective plan for working together. In order to make the most of our time together, I ask that prior to your initial appointment you complete all registration paperwork online. If you are unable to complete the paperwork prior to your session, you should plan on using 15-20 minutes of your session for us to complete the same.

How long do sessions last?

Counseling sessions typically last 45-55 minutes. As your symptoms improve you may have shorter 30-minute sessions.

How often will I come for counseling?

I typically prefer to see clients weekly for the first four to six sessions. As we make progress towards your goals and symptoms improve, your visits will become less frequent. Sessions may be spaced out for individuals with time or financial constraints. If time constraints or transportation are an issue for you, please ask me about the Telehealth option.

How long will I need to come to counseling?

The duration of counseling depends upon a number of factors such as severity of symptoms, frequency of appointments, readiness and commitment to change, coping ability, and motivation for personal growth. Some individuals may notice significant improvement in as few as four to six sessions, while others may need to continue counseling for months or years. The goal of counseling is to improve your mental and emotional well-being and we will work towards that goal at every session.

Is counseling confidential?

Your privacy is extremely important to me, and confidentiality is a critical component of a positive therapeutic relationship. Information shared in counseling sessions is protected by state and federal laws. I will not share information about you with anyone without your written consent unless I am required to do so by law. By law, I am required to report suspected child or elder abuse, serious threats to oneself, and serious threats to others.

What if I or my child needs medication?

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and CANNOT prescribe medication. If you feel there is a need for medication, we will explore the appropriateness of a medication evaluation and I will assist you in obtaining a referral for a suitable medical provider.