Common Questions

How long will my therapy take?

 

Because each person has a unique history and different goals for change, the length of time for treatment can only be effectively estimated after a complete history and evaluation, usually after the first or second visit. 

Generally speaking, short time therapy is considered 3-10 visits where you have ability to deal with crisis, gain tools to view your issue with perspective and to implement an action plan for change. With deeper-seated issues, especially a history of abuse and significant past losses, you are generally looking at 20-26 visits or longer to achieve the lasting results you seek in recapturing your quality of life. Psychotherapy research tells us that 20-26 visits is the average time for most people to achieve their goals. You are unique and you may require a shorter or longer time span. 

How do you select a caring and competent professional?

Selecting the right professional for you is a big and important step. Many people ask me, “How do you do that?”

Referrals from satisfied family, friends and your family physician are always good ways to begin. However, even after identifying these resources, it is advisable for you to meet with at least 2-3 professionals to see if you feel safe, compassionately understood and satisfied that the professional has given you hope with a treatment plan to address your presenting issue (s). 

Trust your feelings, if you do not feel safe, understood and do not get a sense that the person has the tools, training or foreknowledge how to address your issue, then let the professional know that you will be interviewing others and making the best choice that is a right fit for you. Remember, you are in charge. You would not hire an attorney, tax account or pediatrician for your child, if you did not get both a good feeling and upfront signs of competence.

Signs of competence in a caring and competent professional include, not only degrees that reflect completion of general academic schooling and licenses, but also a solid base of specialized training and experience in your presenting issues.  

What benefits and value do you offer your clients-- that DISTINGUISHES you from competition?

When you select me as your caring and competent professional and advocate for change, you will receive the following BENEFITS:

  • A seasoned professional with over 35 years experience in the field of clinical treatment.  
  • A commitment to providing ethical and competent services for your emotional health needs.  
  • Extensive academic preparation and over 18 years of specialization in EMDR Therapy to treat both current day and past trauma and losses as well as current day anxiety and depression symptoms. 
  • Over 6 years specialized training in Emotion Focused Therapy for Couples to help YOU and your partner build a safe and secure bond. 
  • A compassionate professional who understands that YOU deserve a “coach” who will create a safe and caring atmosphere where you can examine your deepest core needs and fears toward creating your best and healthiest Self!

How to Select a Caring Professional Who Understands Me

  1. From the first phone contact, do you feel heard, cared about and understood by this person? (Trust your feelings. What you perceive up front is most often what you will get later.)
  2. Does this professional sound open, flexible and accommodating. Will she allow me to meet with her for an initial interview to determine if this is the right match for me? (When it comes to making an important investment in your future, it is important to interview at least two professionals.) 
  3. Aside from academic degrees and licenses, does this professional have extensive specialized training in the area of my presenting issue? (Just because someone is licensed, does not mean that the person is qualified to help you with your unique needs.)
  4. Can you tell me about the important outcomes or results you have seen using your treatment methods with clients who have had my issue(s)? (You want a seasoned professional who has a track record of success and can easily articulate and give you hope about your problem.)
  5. Where have you practiced and for how long? (This question tells you about their experience level in different settings, such as hospital, rehab clinics, private practice etc.). 
  6. What excites you most about your work? (Remember, you want someone who has passion for what they do. Can you hear it in their voice?)