Common Questions

I am glad you are taking this step to learn more about therapy and how we might work together. Below I have answered some common questions people have asked me when inquiring about therapy.  Feel free to reach and sign up for a free consult call if you have specific questions that is not answered below.

I feel like I’m still dealing with the same issues I’ve had for years, how can you help me get rid of this problem that seems to never go away?

It’s not uncommon for clients to share that they have done a lot of personal growth work, including therapy, and still find patterns that won’t seem to budge. I believe and know from a decade of work with clients, that anyone can resolve patterns and long-standing issues with the right motivation, approach, and support. I use tools, such as expressive arts therapy, mindfulness, EMDR, and brainspotting, that go beyond talk therapy to you help connect to your whole Self and whole-brain.  By having more connection to the whole brain and Self, we can then use these therapeutic tools to identify the core roots of the issues and resolve them. So, don’t fret. We got this.

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. People who ask for help know when they need it and have the ability to reach out. Everyone needs help now and then. You already have strengths that you’ve used before, that for whatever reason aren’t working right now. Perhaps this problem feels overwhelming and is making it difficult to access your past strengths. In our work together, I’ll help you identify what those strengths are and how to implement them again in what is happening now.

What’s the difference between talking to you or my best friend or family?

The difference is that between someone who can do something and someone who has the training and experience to do that same thing professionally. A mental health professional can help you approach your situation in a specific, new way– teach you new skills, gain different perspectives, listen to you without judgment or expectations, and help you better understand the roots of what is bothering you. As therapy is completely confidential, you will also have a secure container to express yourself freely without being concerned about your privacy. 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.

How do the expressive arts help the therapy process?

While talk therapy is a common approach for exploring issues, it is not as effective for resolving many of our suppressed emotional wounds and harmful conditioned thinking that are hidden beneath the surface. Through the expressive arts, we can better access these emotional hurts and unwanted conditioned responses to life and apply tools to help address them. The expressive arts are also supportive in increasing a sense of calm to the nervous system. And as we are all creative beings, the expressive arts can help you to access a greater sense of freedom to express yourself in new ways.

I’m not an artist, can your therapy services still help me?

First, I beg to differ. You are an artist. We have been conditioned to believe that there are such things as “a real artist”, “good art” or “bad art”.  From the expressive arts’ perspective, we don’t see art and creativity from a good/bad lens, but rather see every person as a creative being with artistic impulses, just like yourself! In our work, we will explore what form of creative expression is most natural and enjoyable for you and apply creative tools that support your work.

Why shouldn’t I just take medication?

Medication alone cannot solve all issues. While medication is often effective in treating symptoms, it does not heal the emotional wounds. 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 can be effective and is sometimes needed in conjunction with therapy.

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. I tailor my therapeutic approach to your specific needs

How often should I see a therapist for the best results?

Most clients choose to see me weekly to get the best results. I recommend weekly therapy, especially during the first phase of therapy for greater consistency and growth. Over time, we will revisit the frequency of therapy and make changes as needed.

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.

Do you offer homework or other services to help when we’re not meeting?

Absolutely! I prefer to call it “homeplay” as we all need more play in our lives! In my experience, we make greater strides in resolving issues and strengthing our desired outcomes when consistently working towards our goals. This is where homeplay comes in. I will assign you activities to do in between sessions that are tailored to what you are working on. The activities can range from mindfulness exercises to art activities or thought tracking tools. In session, we will check in on how your homeplay is supporting your goals and adjust according to your needs.

I want to get the most out of therapy. What can I do to help?

I am so glad you are dedicated to getting the most out of your sessions. Your active participation and dedication is crucial to your success. After all, we only see each other for a session a week. It’s the work you do outside of our sessions that will really help you see your personal growth and development.