Frequently Asked Questions
I’ve never talked to anyone. I’m used to handling things on my own. Aren’t people who go to therapy weak?
Not at all. Everyone needs help now and then and by reaching out you are showing your courage to look at some painful parts of your internal and external life. You already have strengths that you’ve used before, that for whatever reason are not working right now. Perhaps this problem feels overwhelming and is making it difficult to access your past strengths. In your work with us, we will help you identify what those strengths are and how to implement them again in what is happening in your life right now.
What’s the difference between talking to you or my best friend or family?
We have the training and experience to listen and help in a very different way. A mental health professional can help you approach your situation in a new way– teach you new skills, gain different perspectives, listen to you without judgment or expectations, and help you listen to yourself. Furthermore, therapy is completely confidential. You won’t have to worry about others “knowing my business.” Lastly, if your situation provokes a great deal of negative emotion, if you’ve been confiding in a friend or family member, there is the risk that once you are feeling better you could start avoiding that person so you aren’t reminded of this difficult time in your life.
Why shouldn’t I just take medication?
Medication alone cannot solve all of our issues. Medication can be a part of a solid treatment plan and can address symptoms related to biochemical and biologically based illneses. Our work together is designed to explore the root of the issue, dig deep into your behavior and teach strategies that can help you accomplish your personal and/or relational goals. Medication is just one potential piece of the “wellness puzzle”.
How does it work? What do I have to do in sessions?
Because each person has different issues and goals for therapy, therapy will be different depending on the individual. We tailor our therapeutic approach to your specific needs.
How long will it take?
Unfortunately, this is not possible to say in a general FAQs page. Everyone’s circumstances are unique to them and the length of time therapy can take to allow you to accomplish your goals depends on your desire for personal development, your commitment, and the factors that are driving you to seek therapy in the first place.
I want to get the most out of therapy. What can I do to help?
Your active participation and dedication is crucial to your success. After all, we may only see you on a weekly basis. It’s the work you do outside of session that will really help you see your personal growth and development.
My partner and I are having problems. Should we be in individual counseling or come together?
If you are concerned about your relationship, and you and your partner would both like to work with us, we would initially work with both of you together. After or during this work, if one or both of you would like to start in individual sessions, we can certainly arrnage these sessions with another therapist at Well Life Therapy, LLC. It is not helpful to move from individual into couple’s work with the same therapist because of potential trust issues.
