Why do people seek therapy?
People come into therapy for many reasons. Some need to respond to unexpected changes in their lives, while others seek self-exploration and personal growth. When coping skills are overwhelmed by guilt, doubt, anxiety, or despair, therapy can help. Therapy can provide support, problem-solving skills, and enhanced coping for issues such as depression, anxiety, lack of confidence, relationship troubles, unresolved childhood issues, bereavement, spiritual conflicts, stress management, body image issues, and creative blocks. People seeking psychotherapy are willing to take responsibility for their actions, work towards self-change and create greater awareness in their lives.
What can I expect in a therapy session?
During sessions you are expected to talk about the primary concerns and issues in your life. A counseling session lasts 45–50 minutes (some clients request longer sessions). A hypnotherapy session lasts an hour and a half (90 min.) Weekly sessions are usually recommended. Some clients who are in crisis or extreme distress need more than one session per week, at least until the crisis passes. During the time between sessions it is beneficial to think about and process what was discussed. At times, you may be asked to take certain actions outside of the therapy sessions, such as reading a relevant book or keeping records. For therapy to "work," you must be an active participant, both in and outside of the therapy sessions.
What benefits can I expect from working with a therapist?
A number of benefits are available from participating in psychotherapy. Often it is helpful just to know that someone understands. Therapy can provide a fresh perspective on a difficult problem or point you in the direction of a solution. Many people find therapy to be a valuable asset to managing personal growth, interpersonal relationships, family concerns, and the hassles of daily life. The benefits you obtain from therapy depend on how well you use the process and put into practice what you learn. Some of the benefits available from therapy include:
- Attaining a better understanding of yourself and your personal goals and values
- Developing skills for improving your relationships
- Finding resolution to the issues or concerns that led you to seek therapy
- Finding new ways to cope with stress and anxiety
- Managing anger, depression, and other emotional pressures
- Improving communications skills - learn how to listen to others, and have others listen to you
- Getting "unstuck" from unhealthy patterns – breaking old behaviors and developing new ones
- Discovering new ways to solve problems
- Improving your self-esteem and boosting self-confidence
What is hypnotherapy?
Hypnotherapy is the use of hypnosis to help people solve problems, resolve conflicts, change unwanted behavior, and enhance personal development. It is a valuable approach in counseling, health care and everyday life improvement. Its value is recognized by physicians, dentists, psychiatrists, psychologists, educators, chiropractors, clergy and other professionals.
Hypnosis is a natural state which can be easily learned by anyone -- even young children -- and used to achieve deep physical relaxation and focused mental attention. For this reason, it can increase therapeutic effectiveness and assist in changing negative habits, behaviors and emotions.
The mind exists at two levels -- the conscious and the subconscious. Change, to be lasting, must reach the subconscious. Hypnotherapy can often enable adjustments to take place at this subconscious level more quickly and effectively.
Is it Safe?
Most people, when hypnotized, feel pleasantly relaxed, as in a daydream. You are not asleep or unconscious, and can typically hear and remember everything. Hypnosis is safe. You will remain in control of what you say and/or do. You will not act against your will or beliefs.
What if I don't know what my goals are for therapy?
If you aren't sure what your goals are for therapy, your first task is to figure that out. It may take several sessions before a direction is clarified. During the course of therapy your goals may change. However, establishing a direction for therapy will help you get the most out of the experience.
Insurance
To keep my rates reasonable, I do not bill insurance companies on behalf of clients. However, I can provide a comprehensive receipt that you may submit to your insurance company for reimbursement.
Is therapy confidential?
In general, the law protects the confidentiality of all communications between a client and a psychotherapist. Information is not disclosed without written permission. However, there are exceptions to this rule, including:
- Suspected child abuse or dependent adult or elder abuse. The therapist is required by law to report this to the appropriate authorities immediately.
- A client is threatening serious bodily harm to another person/s. The therapist must notify the police and inform the intended victim.
- A client intends to harm himself or herself. The therapist will make every effort to enlist individual cooperation in ensuring his/her safety. If the client will not cooperate, further measures may be taken without permission in order to ensure personal safety.
- Homeland security queries
For more information, read my Notice of Privacy Practices Notices of Privacy Practice statement (also available on my Helpful Forms page).