Common Questions
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. Therapy can provide support, problem-solving skills, and new ways of responding to people and situations.
People seeking psychotherapy have the opportunity to re-evaluate their patterns of thinking and acting, to work toward change, and to create greater awareness and fulfillment in their lives.
What can I expect in a therapy session?
During the first session we will begin to get to know each other. I will ask you about yourself and your life and about what brought you to therapy, as well as answer questions you have of me as your therapist. During subsequent sessions we will address your concerns and the issues in your life.
A typical session lasts 50 minutes, however clients may request longer sessions. I recommend weekly sessions to begin with. I will often suggest “homework”, or some way to put into practice some of the things that we’ve discussed. You’ll be an active participant in creating the changes you’re seeking, 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 talk with someone who is objective and non-judgmental. Therapy can provide a fresh perspective on a difficult problem, or help you consider new options.
Many people find therapy to be a tremendous asset to managing personal growth, interpersonal relationships, family concerns, and daily life. The benefits you obtain from therapy depend on how 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, i.e., your thinking, your feelings and your past.
- Developing skills for improving your relationships
- Finding resolution to the issues or concerns that led you to seek therapy
- Finding new ways to respond to situations
- Managing anger, depression, and other emotional pressures
- Improving communications skills – learning how to listen to others and to have others listen to you
- Getting “unstuck” from unhealthy patterns – breaking old behaviors and developing new ones
- Improving your self-esteem and boosting self-confidence
What if I don’t know what my goals are for therapy?
If you aren’t sure what your goals are for therapy I’ll help you 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 me assist you, and will help you get the most out of the experience.
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 some exceptions to this rule. Exceptions include:
- Suspected child abuse or dependant adult or elder abuse. The therapist is required by law to report this to the appropriate authorities immediately.
- If a client is threatening serious bodily harm to another person/s. The therapist must notify the police and inform the intended victim.
- If a client intends to harm himself or herself. The therapist will make every effort to enlist the client’s cooperation in insuring their safety. If this is not possible further measures may be taken without the client’s permission in order to ensure their safety.
What is sex therapy?
Sex therapy is an interactive process designed to treat problems and address questions about your sexual functioning and expression. Through conversation I work with you to explore and resolve your sexual concerns. Using specialized clinical skills and professional guidelines I help individuals and/or couples to reach greater levels of sexual satisfaction and fulfillment.
What types of issues does sex therapy address?
Difficulties related to sexual functioning:
Female difficulty with or inability to reach orgasm
Erection problems
Rapid or delayed ejaculation
Painful intercourse
Sexual difficulties related to anxiety or depression
Overcoming lack of experience
Lack of sexual desire
Couple Issues:
Differing levels of sexual desire
Difficulty communicating openly about sex
Differences around preferred sexual activities and behaviors
Relationship betrayals and infidelity
Barriers to intimacy
Additional Issues:
Sexual issues related to aging or menopause
Sex education
Exploring one’s sexual urges or interests
Dealing with troubling sexual thoughts or behaviors
Sexual difficulties related to physical disabilities, surgery or illness
Exploring sexual orientation or gender issues
Parenting issues regarding children’s sexual curiosity and experimentation
What happens in sex therapy?
In sex therapy we will talk about your sexual concerns and the changes you are seeking in your sexual experience. We might also address a range of related issues in your life which affect your sexual expression. Medical referrals may be part of treatment and I will work in coordination with your physician if desired.
Treatment may include education to enhance your sexual knowledge and skills, assistance in changing your thoughts and behaviors, and building on your unique strengths as an individual or a couple. I will often suggest exercises to be done at home between sessions, however sexual activity is never part of the sessions in my office.