What is the typical frequency of sessions and duration of treatment?

Clients typically attend one session (50 minutes) per week, from a couple of months to 2+ years.

How long will I be in therapy?

Unfortunately, this is not possible to say in a general FAQs page. Everyone’s circumstance is unique and the length of time therapy can take depends on your desire for personal development, your commitment, and the factors that are driving you to seek counseling in the first place.

Psychotherapy can vary in length from shorter treatment focusing on a particular issue to longer term treatment in which more complicated traumatic history, relationship issues, and chronic patterns can be addressed. Some people prefer to use therapy as a form of mental health maintenance. There is no contractual obligation to remain in therapy and clients may end treatment at any time. Ideally, the ending of therapy is part of an overall discussion and the timing is arrived at collaboratively and intentionally.

What can I expect from our first session?

Our first session or two is normally focused on discussing what issues are currently a source of concern for you, as well as a discussing some of history of these concerns, e.g. family and cultural history, past experiences with therapy–what has worked and what has not. We will also see how well we work together. Usually after a couple of sessions we can establish a better sense of what approach will best serve you.

What happens if I need to cancel or reschedule a session?

I understand that life happens! I request a 24-hour notice for cancellations or rescheduling. Cancellations within 24 hours will be charged as the full session rate, as the time has already been reserved for you.

What do I have to do in sessions?

When you come in for a session, it is okay to begin to free associate, letting your thoughts and feelings lead without too much preparation or organization. I’ll be interested in what’s going on inside of you. As you speak, I will slow you down so that we can get to the core feelings that you are experiencing (since people often rush through or gloss over important parts of their experience). I may ask you some questions in order to deepen that experience, and then we will talk about what happened.

I want to get the most out of therapy. What can I do to help?

I am so glad you are dedicated to getting the most out of your sessions. Your active participation and dedication will be crucial to your success. People who are engaged with the therapy process outside of sessions contribute greatly to the outcome of therapy. Reading books, journal writing, noting dreams or impressions after our sessions can all go a long way in deepening your process.