Welcome

Congratulations for taking this step in seeking mental health services! I personally know how difficult it can be to reach out for help. I've found that therapy works best when the client has clear expectations of the therapeutic process. I strive to demystify the therapeutic process and make services understandable and accessible to all. Please read below to learn more about what you can expect in therapy and common misconceptions. Whether you work with me or another clinician, I hope the following will provide you with a better understanding of therapy services.

Common Misconceptions

We've all heard and seen the therapy tropes out there in the media. I've found that therapists are often misrepresented. I've found it incredibly helpful to clarify misinformation about therapy for new and returning clients. Below is a list of common misconceptions and corrections:

The therapist tells you what to do

Therapists do not actually give advice. This would take away your autonomy and trust in your own decision-making skills. We may provide you with suggestions, but it is your job to find what works best for you.

The therapist is a blank slate

Therapists are humans too. They do their best to acknowledge and bracket their biases and opinions. Good therapy involves authenticity on both the client and counselor's part.

Therapy "fixes" people

A therapist's job is not to save or fix you. I don't believe you are broken. You are responding to life's circumstances as any human would. A therapist's job is to understand you and help you understand yourself.

A therapist is a friend

It is normal to develop a connection with your therapist. Therapists are bound by strict ethical guidelines and we cannot have a relationship with you outside of the counseling space.

Solutions will be quick and simple

Life and its problems are extremely complex. Rarely is there a simple solution. Your therapist may help you explore your options and provide you will the skills to determine your own solution.

The therapist will do all the work

You get out what you put into therapy. Optimally, the therapist and client put in the same work. The best way to see progress is to continue working on yourself in between sessions - this is where the true change occurs.

Therapists only listen and ask questions

Therapy is much more. Your therapist may teach you new information, guide you through coping skills, or use other interventions.

Therapy is only for people with "serious" issues

With the right fit, therapy can be for everyone. Every human can benefit from understanding themselves and their world better.

What to Expect From Your Therapist

Every therapist practices differently depending on their theoretical framework, personal experiences, and trainings. Research shows that the therapeutic relationship is the single most important factor in client outcomes. There is no one treatment that is "correct." There are several ways to practice therapy and the best approach will depend on the clinician and the client they serve. I've compiled a list of roles a therapist may fulfill to provide you with an understanding of expectations. Each factor listed helps in establishing a strong therapeutic relationship:

Facilitator: The therapist helps to create a safe and supportive environment in which the client can explore their thoughts, feelings, and experiences.
1. The therapist practices unconditional positive regard (always seeing you in a positive light) and non-judgment towards the client
Listener: The therapist listens attentively and empathetically to the client's words and nonverbal cues, without judging or interrupting.
1. There may be long silences - this is to give you space to pause and process, this may feel awkward but I encourage you to find comfort in the discomfort
Guide: The therapist uses their knowledge and expertise to provide guidance and support to the client as they work towards their goals.
1. Therapists reserve the right to refer clients who have cases outside of their knowledge or scope of practice. This is required by the American Counseling Association’s (ACA) Ethics Code.
Reflector: The therapist reflects back to the client their own words and feelings, helping them to gain a deeper understanding of themselves and their experiences.
Challenger: The therapist challenges the client to question and explore their beliefs, assumptions, and behaviors, in order to promote personal growth and change.
1. Good therapy is like a good workout - challenging enough to build strength, but not too challenging that you’re exhausted all week.
Educator: The therapist provides education and information to the client about mental health, coping skills, and other relevant topics.
1. My area of expertise: Mindfulness, meditation, breathwork, guided imagery, grounding techniques
Advocate: The therapist advocates for the client's needs and rights, and helps them to access resources and support in their community.
Collaborator: The therapist works collaboratively with the client to set goals, develop a treatment plan, and monitor progress.
Confidant: The therapist maintains confidentiality and trust with the client, providing a safe and secure space for them to share their thoughts and feelings.
Support: The therapist provides emotional support and encouragement to the client as they work towards their goals and make positive changes in their life.

Confidentiality & Privacy

Confidentiality and privacy are essential components of mental health therapy. They provide a safe and secure environment for clients to share their thoughts, feelings, and experiences without fear of judgement or stigma. Confidentiality helps to establish trust between the client and therapist, which is crucial for effective therapy. It also allows for open and honest communication, which is necessary for clients to work through their issues and make positive changes in their lives. Privacy ensures that the client's personal information and therapy sessions are protected and not shared with anyone without their consent. This includes not only the therapist's notes, but also the client's medical, financial and personal information. Confidentiality and privacy are also a legal requirement for therapists, as it is protected under the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA).

How will Confidentiality and Privacy be ensured?

1. Telehealth sessions will be conducted where both parties are in a private setting. Sessions will not be conducted if third parties are present.

2. Telehealth video conferencing will be conducted using a HIPPA-approved platform.

3. Treatment plans and session notes will be recording using a secure Electronic Health Record (EHR) System. Notes will be kept brief, as they are considered legal documents and may be subjected to subpoena.

4. If a therapist if subpoenaed or requested to testify in trial, the therapist will provide the minimal amount of information as necessary.

5. A therapist may not talk to third parties without your knowledge or consent*. A therapist may obtain a release of information so that they may consult with your other providers on your treatment. The therapist will provide the minimal amount of information necessary.

*Exceptions to confidentiality include cases of imminent threat to self or others. This may include crisis situations or suspicions of child/elderly abuse and neglect.

What to Expect During a Therapy Session

I encourage you to keep an open mind about your first therapy session. In my experience, it can take several weeks to build a trusting relationship with the therapist. I take careful consideration in building the therapeutic relationship during the first few weeks of therapy. Typically, the first session involves an intake where information is gathered about your history and presenting problem. The next few sessions are like any other new relationship, getting used to each other and finding our flow. We will continually work together to narrow down the focus of our sessions as you settle into the therapy process. We will collaboratively identify your goals. Depending on your needs, I may teach you practical skills such as mindfulness, meditation, grounding techniques, and breathing techniques. Others simply need and enjoy a place to talk. Whatever your needs are, we will work slowly and mindfully together to identify the best approach for you. Even if we do not work together, I wish you well on your path of healing. I hope this information provided you with some direction.