Frequently Asked Questions

1. Why see a therapist instead of talking to a friend?

Therapists are trained to offer objective, confidential support without personal bias. Our role is to focus entirely on you, exploring issues with depth and guidance you may not receive from friends who care but aren’t equipped to support your growth therapeutically.

2. When should I consider getting therapy?

Common signs include feeling emotionally stuck, struggling with daily functioning, or being burdened by overwhelming feelings. Therapy can be helpful when internal distress starts affecting relationships, work, or personal well-being.

3. What should I expect from the first therapy session?

You’ll have a chance to share what brought you in, your history, and what you're hoping to work on. The goal is to connect, understand what's needed, and build a comfortable therapeutic foundation.

4. How do I know if the therapist is a good fit?

A strong fit usually means feeling heard, safe, and respected during sessions. It's normal to try a few therapists until you find someone whose style, background, and approach align with your needs.

5. How often should I attend sessions?

Many clients start with weekly or biweekly sessions for momentum, then adjust frequency based on progress.

6. How long are sessions?

Sessions typically last 45–55 minutes, often approximating one hour, including check-ins.

7. How long does therapy usually last?

Therapy duration varies widely, depending on your goals, needs, and progress. It can be short (a few sessions) or long (several months or years).

8. What is confidentiality?

Everything you share is protected, with rare exceptions (e.g., risk of harm to self or others, reports of abuse, or legal orders). Confidentiality ensures therapy remains a safe space for honest exploration.

9. Is therapy always beneficial? Can it make me feel worse?

Therapy can feel uncomfortable, but bringing up difficult emotions is part of healing. However, signs of progress include increased self-awareness, improved coping, and symptom reduction. Progress isn’t always linear, and it's essential to discuss goals and your experience with your therapist.

10. What should I expect during my first session?

The initial session typically includes intake paperwork and introductions, a discussion of your concerns, background, and therapy goals, and clarification of treatment length, style, confidentiality, and boundaries. You may not dive deeply into therapy content yet; it’s about building a foundation.