FAQs About Therapy Sessions
Navigating the start of therapy can bring up many questions. We've compiled a list of frequently asked questions to help ease your concerns and prepare you for the journey ahead. Whether you're curious about the therapy process, session details, or confidentiality, you'll find the answers here to help you feel informed and comfortable.
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Your first session is primarily about getting to know each other. We will discuss your reasons for seeking therapy, your personal history, and any specific goals you wish to achieve. It’s a chance for you to ask questions and for us to establish a comfortable foundation for our future sessions and make sure it is a good fit for the client.
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Each session typically lasts between 45 to 60 minutes. We try to start and end sessions punctually to respect the time of all clients.
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The frequency of sessions depends on your unique needs and goals. Most clients start with weekly sessions, and as progress is made, we may decide together to reduce the frequency to every other week or monthly.
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Yes, confidentiality is a cornerstone of therapy. Information disclosed in sessions is kept private except in situations where disclosure is required by law, such as threats of harm to oneself or others.
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We utilize various therapeutic approaches tailored to meet your specific needs, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Psychodynamic Therapy, Mindfulness Practices, and more, depending on what will be most effective for your situation.
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No specific preparation is needed, but it can be helpful to think about what you wish to discuss or any goals you might want to work towards. Some clients find it useful to keep a journal of their thoughts and feelings between sessions.
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We understand that unforeseen circumstances can arise. We request that you notify us at least 24 hours in advance if you need to cancel or reschedule your appointment to avoid a cancellation fee.
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Progress in therapy can sometimes be subtle. Signs that therapy is working include feeling more equipped to handle life’s challenges, improvements in mood and relationships, and achieving or making progress towards your goals.
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Absolutely. It’s important for effective therapy that you feel comfortable and connected with your therapist. If you feel that a different therapist might be a better fit, we can discuss options for a change.
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Being open, honest, and engaged during your sessions will help you get the most out of therapy. It’s also important to apply what you learn in therapy to your daily life and to communicate with your therapist about what is or isn’t working for you.
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A psychologist typically holds a doctoral degree in psychology and focuses on psychotherapy and treating emotional and mental suffering with behavioral intervention. Psychiatrists are medical doctors who can prescribe medications and often focus on managing mental health disorders from a medical standpoint. A therapist may have various levels of training and credentials (such as an MFT, LCSW, LPC) and primarily provides psychotherapy.
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Yes, therapy can be conducted online via teletherapy sessions, and it has been shown to be just as effective as in-person therapy for many individuals. Online therapy provides flexibility and accessibility, especially for those who have busy schedules, mobility issues, or live in remote areas.
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Choosing the right therapist involves considering several factors, including the therapist’s qualifications, areas of specialization, therapeutic approach, and your personal comfort with them. It's often helpful to have an initial consultation to see if the therapist’s style and demeanor are a good fit for you.
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It’s completely normal to feel unsure about what to discuss. Therapists are trained to guide conversations and will help you explore your thoughts and feelings. Over time, as you build a relationship with your therapist, finding topics to discuss will likely become easier.
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Sometimes, discussing difficult memories or emotions can make you feel worse in the short term. This is a normal part of the healing process. However, over time, therapy should help you feel better and more equipped to handle challenges.
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The decision to stop therapy should generally be made in discussion with your therapist, based on your progress and whether you’ve achieved your therapy goals. However, you are always in control, and you can decide to end therapy at any time.
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If you feel your therapy isn’t progressing, it’s important to discuss this with your therapist. Sometimes, simply communicating your feelings can lead to adjustments in your treatment plan that can help make sessions more effective.
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Many therapists will suggest activities or exercises to do outside of sessions to help reinforce what you’re learning in therapy. This might include journaling, reading, practicing relaxation techniques, or specific behavioral tasks.
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Common types of therapy include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Psychodynamic Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), among others. Each approach has different techniques and focuses, and some may be more suitable for certain issues than others.
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This depends on the therapeutic approach and your specific goals. Some therapists offer couples or family therapy sessions if involving others can be beneficial to your therapy goals. However, it’s important to discuss this option with your therapist to ensure it aligns with your treatment plan.