Frequently Asked Questions
I usually just handle things on my own so I’m nervous about starting therapy. Is this normal?
When starting therapy, it's very common to feel nervous. It can be scary to think of opening up or expressing emotions in front of someone new, perhaps fearing that it will be awkward and uncomfortable. The fear around that can feel overwhelming. Going to therapy even when you are nervous is not easy. It may take courage to take those steps. You reading this now shows that you are already stepping in the right direction.
Therapy is a space where you can be yourself and come just as you are, including feeling nervous. We are committed to finding a way to care for and respect your nervousness and ensure sessions are as comfortable as possible.
How do I know if I’m choosing the right therapist for me?
Take your time to read through your therapist’s website page. If you sense that they may be a good fit based on what you are reading, you can schedule your first session or contact them to ask any questions that are specific-to-you.
It may be helpful to think of the first few sessions as trying out the waters together with your therapist. During the sessions, you’ll be able to start seeing what it's like. Your therapist’s approach is not going to work for everyone. What’s most important to me is that you find someone who you feel is the right fit for you. You and your therapist can explore that together.
What if I don't want to talk about something?
If something feels overwhelming or even terrifying to discuss, that's actually very normal. It can often feel difficult to talk about some things. During our sessions, it will always be up to you if you feel ready to talk about something or not. It’s your therapist’s job to give you space to slowly start to work through the tough stuff. Gradually and at a pace that feels comfortable to you, you can share what you feel ready to share
You can also share with your therapist that you are nervous to open up about something and you can talk about that too. Whatever is present for you. Whatever you are going through. Bring that to session and you can explore that together.
Does what we talk about in therapy remain confidential?
It can be concerning feeling like things you say or do in therapy could "get out." So we want you to know that unless you are in danger or someone else is, your story is confidential and your time in the session is protected. Your privacy and trust are of utmost importance. If you have specific questions about how confidentiality works, you can ask anytime during your work together with your therapist.
How long will therapy take?
You might be asking about how long therapy will take because you are currently struggling and want relief fast. If this is true for you, we want you to know that on average, new clients start seeing improvements after the first a few sessions. By that point, they they feel a little more confident in themselves. The total duration of therapy varies from client to client. Some of my clients find 8-12 weeks to be enough to resolve immediate challenges. While other clients feel more supported by longer term therapy. Your therapist will work together with you to find the length of time that works best.
What can I expect during the first session?
Overall, you can think of the first session as a free-flowing conversation through which you and your therapist will start getting to know each other. They will invite you to share more about yourself and discuss what’s worked or not worked for you in the past.
Some questions that your therapist might ask during a first session include:
What brought you to therapy?
What’s of most concern for you in your life right now?
What do I need to know about you to understand your current challenges?
You can ask your therapist questions as well. You might be curious about about their experice or how future sessions work. The most important part of a first session is that you feel that it is a good fit. If you feel safe, accepted, and comfortable with, you and your therapist can discuss meeting again.