Individual
Many people seek therapy to resolve inner issues that get in the way of their happiness. Sometimes, they need an independent sounding board to make a decision. Other times, they need to resolve deep-seated early hurts that have kept them from finding an appropriate career direction or from selecting a loving mate. Anxiety and depression are the most common symptoms telling us something is amiss inside. Therapy is an excellent tool used by millions to uncover and heal the roots of our mood disorders.
Individual psychotherapy is useful for: relational problems, work stress, overcoming anxiety about dating and sexuality, changing our own steps in the marital dance, problems with adult children, trauma and grief.
Sessions are usually weekly, although occasionally it is more effective to schedule more frequently.
FAQ
How do I know if I need therapy?
Do you enjoy activities with the same vigor as earlier in your life? Does your job feel like you are pursuing your passion? Are you free from problems with eating, sleeping, worry and substances? Do you tell your spouse about your inner life? Does your spouse listen to you? Would your children say you praise them more than correct them? If you answer ‘no’ to any of these questions, therapy can help.What happens in a therapy session? What’s it like?
In many ways, therapy is like sitting in a friend’s living room and talking about the important events in our lives, along with our feelings, thoughts, hopes, and dreams. The therapist will listen and share her thoughts. Change will happen when you apply what you learn. Therapy sessions usually last 45 minutes once a week.How does talking about problems change the stress of modern family life?
Talking offers a relational solution for problems that, though unique to the client, have been seen hundreds of times by experienced therapists. Stress is abundant in today’s world. Dealing with stress depends on relational strategies that come naturally to some people, but can be learned by everyone.How long does therapy take?
The length of therapy depends on the particular issue, but can range from only a few sessions to several years in order to change persistent personality traits or repair deep hurt.What if I’m not a good communicator?
Communication is a learned skill. If you think about it, every one of us had to learn to communicate at the level that we do. We can learn to listen better; and with practice, become more adept at sharing our feelings, thoughts, and emotions. Therapists are generally superior listeners and will make it easier for you to talk by staying calm, non-defensive and concerned.How will I know if an individual therapist is good?
Reputation, referral and personality fit can steer you in the right direction when choosing a therapist. While it may cost more, you may want to interview a few before settling on the one that seems right for you.What will I be asked to talk about in my individual sessions?
You will set the agenda for the content of each session. Talking as freely as possible will help your therapist piece together the patterns in your life that are not working.I know something is wrong with my life because things always turn out slightly wrong, but I don’t know what to do about it. How will my therapist help me?
Your therapist’s experience will help identify the patterns that create problems in your life. Your unconscious mind is already hard at work trying to alert you to missteps by using symptoms and dreams. Together, you and your therapist will assess other reasonable courses of action and how you feel about taking another path.Should I take medication for my depression or seek therapy?
Sometimes medication is necessary to provide enough emotional space to make therapy successful. Other times medication minimizes the symptoms to such an extent that people do not solve the core problems that would change their lives. Your therapist and psychiatrist will help determine if you should consider medication.