New to therapy?
DISCOVERY CALL
free 20 minute session
During this initial call, we'll discuss the presenting issues and information regarding with what you are seeking help. I will answer any questions you have about the therapy process, my specialties, and my treatment modalities, as well as any logistical questions.
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Initially, I always recommend that clients commit to meeting on a weekly basis for at least two to three months. When we meet consistently, we can make more gains on an exponential level. As therapy progresses, many clients will go down to semi-monthly and then monthly sessions. It is important to openly discuss desired changes in frequency, then each client will make the final decision.
Especially if this is your first time pursuing therapy or if you are looking for a reparative therapeutic experience, the therapeutic process can feel like uncharted waters. First, it’s about showing up and taking a step towards improving your mental health and wellness, and your relationships. It’s important to show up with an open mindset and a willingness for self-exploration. It is also vital to bring a sense of curiosity to sessions and to be curious about how and why you think and behave in the way you do.
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Some clients come to therapy hoping for a “golden nugget,” that changes everything. Unfortunately, this is not a realistic expectation. It takes a commitment of time and resources. And you are worth that commitment!
To get the most out of therapy, it’s best for a client to take what is discussed and learned in sessions and apply it to their daily life. Clients benefit greatly when they can practice their skills and use their growing knowledge on a day-to-day basis. Then clients can bring back those experiences to therapy, so we can explore what worked well and what needs improvement.
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Small shifts in your patterns of thinking, relating, and coping can open up new possibilities. And one day you will look back and recognize just how far you have come.
Imagine you are on a boat in the middle of the ocean and you decide to change course five degrees. For a while, when you look around, nothing has changed. All you can see in every direction is the ocean and sky. You may find yourself wanting to return to your familiar course because everything looks the same anyway and unknown waters can be uncertain. But if you stay the course, you will see land. And over the course of a thousand miles, that five-degree shift will bring you to a completely new destination.
In the beginning, it can also be hard to imagine that a change in coping styles, perspectives, and relationships is possible, but let me share this analogy.
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What to Expect in Therapy
What to Expect in Trauma Therapy
- A general sense and a basic understanding of your trauma history that you remember.
- What current symptoms of trauma are manageable, and which are interfering with day-to-day life?
- How do you experience these symptoms emotionally, physiologically, and behaviorally, whether consciously or unconsciously?
- What treatments and techniques (for trauma and other related issues) have you tried in the past, successfully or unsuccessfully?
- What current (and past) emotional-regulation and coping skills have you used, effective or ineffective?
- Are you in an unsafe situation currently, possibly exposed to contact with the perpetrator(s)?
- Who are your sources of support and are they aware of your diagnosis and/or difficulties?
- Do you have a basic understanding of trauma and dissociation, or techniques like EMDR, Somatic Experiencing, and Brainspotting?
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Depending on all these factors and many more, we may need to start with psychoeducation to ensure you are well-informed. If clients are not yet able to share some of their trauma history, we might need to start working to widen their Window of Tolerance. If one wants to address the root issues and sources of the trauma material, the process will be more involved and intensive. Treatment for Complex Trauma, Dissociative Disorders, and DID, can take years of treatment on a bi-weekly and/or weekly basis. Others may want to stay focused on the problematic symptoms that impact their current life, work and relationships for a less intense course of treatment.
Together we will determine the most appropriate course of treatment given your unique history, experience of symptoms, ultimate hopes for therapy, and the time and resources with which you are realistically able to commit.
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It is impossible to predict exactly how much therapy will be needed. However, I find that clients gain the most traction when they commit to a minimum of weekly sessions over 2-3 months. After this initial time commitment, we will discuss the best course of continued treatment.
My goal is to empower clients to ultimately help themselves. In time, therapy will no longer be indicated. Later in life, another dilemma may arise and you may want to restart therapy again.
How long does therapy usually last?
The therapeutic process is often uncomfortable and usually doesn’t feel great in the moment; however, in the end, clients typically do feel better as they have gained insight and clarity about themselves.
Like most things in life, you get out of therapy what you put into it. Clients who stay the course and who show up committed to the process achieve results that make them significantly more content in their lives and relationships. I am committed to doing my best to help and support you on your journey, and I want your feedback along the way. I will actively seek out your thoughts and feelings on how our work is progressing.