Frequently asked questions.
Your Journey to Well-being: Frequently Asked Questions
We understand you might have some questions as you consider starting therapy.
We're here to provide clarity and support every step of the way.
Do I need a therapist? Does that mean I'm not strong enough?
Our modern, individualistic culture often encourages us to be entirely self-sufficient, which can sometimes lead to feelings of loneliness, being unseen, or difficulty forming deeper connections. You've navigated life and made many independent decisions, which truly highlights your resilience and strength! Please know that choosing therapy isn't a test of your strength; it's a journey of compassionate self-exploration. Think of your therapist as a supportive ally who truly sees and validates your existing strengths, and a gentle guide who can help you connect with your deeper emotions and authentic inner self.
What should I prepare for each session?
We invite you to bring topics that feel important and meaningful to you. It's perfectly okay if you don't know exactly where to start – that happens more often than you might think! Sometimes, we might begin with simple body awareness activities to help you connect with your physical sensations. Our bodies often hold emotions that need to be acknowledged and explored further. When we slow down and pay attention to the "here and now," we can truly begin to hear our inner voices, needs, and deepest truths.
How can I tell if a therapist is a good fit for me?
The connection you feel with your therapist, known as the therapeutic relationship, is incredibly important to the success of your journey. A consultation session is a wonderful opportunity for you to meet the therapist, learn about their unique approaches and professional background, and ask any questions you may have. It's a chance to assess whether this feels like a good fit for you. We encourage you to notice how your body responds during the interaction. Ask yourself: "Do I feel truly seen, heard, and understood by this therapist?" and "Am I interested in trying the approaches they offer?"
How many sessions do I need? Will I feel better?
Therapy is a deeply personal and organic journey that allows for the gentle unraveling of emotional knots. The number of sessions you choose to engage in can vary significantly, as it's truly influenced by your unique goals, life circumstances, and the depth of self-exploration you wish to pursue. It's important to understand that therapy is never a binding contract; you always have the freedom to pause or conclude our work whenever you feel ready. As your therapist, I am committed to fostering your self-empowerment and self-validation. This process is designed to help you cultivate a greater sense of well-being and to truly take pride in your most authentic self.
What if I don't feel understood by the therapist?
Even with a therapist's experience and expertise, moments of miscommunication or misattunement can still occur in sessions. Therapists are human, and sometimes we might miss those subtle moments when your implicit emotions deeply long to be acknowledged. Therapy is actually a wonderful and safe space to practice vital skills like communication, assertiveness, and even repairing relational ruptures. By openly sharing that you don't feel understood, you'll help your therapist better comprehend your needs and further explore any potential emotional injuries you might have been carrying for a long time. It's a powerful step towards healing.
Will I cry a lot in therapy?
In therapy, you're invited to gently recollect memories or explore situations that may be impactful to your current experiences. This process can certainly bring about emotional discomfort or distress, and sometimes that includes tears. It's a natural and healthy part of processing deep feelings, and all emotions are welcome and held with care in our sessions.
I am worried if I get too dependent on therapy and can't deal with problems on my own. Is therapy still right for me?
This is a common and understandable concern, and it's a testament to your desire for independence! I firmly believe that therapy, when approached thoughtfully, is provided to empower you, not to create dependency. My goal is to equip you with new insights, coping strategies, and a stronger connection to your inner resources. Therefore, you can navigate life's challenges with greater confidence and self-trust. The therapeutic journey aims to help you become more self-sufficient, not less. We'll work collaboratively, always focusing on building your skills and autonomy so you can eventually manage problems on your own and actualize your ideal self.
How do I know when to graduate from therapy?
Knowing when to conclude therapy is an important part of the journey! It's a collaborative decision between you and me. Generally, you'll know it's time when you feel you've achieved the goals you set for therapy, you experience inner peace more often, you're consistently using the coping skills you've learned, and you feel more confident in handling life's challenges independently. We'll regularly review your progress and openly discuss your readiness to graduate and celebrate how far you've come.