It takes a great deal of courage to reach out to a therapist when you recognize that you need help and support, especially if you're unsure if it's the right road to go down. Below are some common questions people often have about coming to therapy.

If you don't see an answer to your question here, don't worry! I am always happy to speak with you in advance of scheduling an appointment to answer any questions you may have.

It takes a great deal of courage to reach out to a therapist when you recognize that you need help and support, especially if you're unsure if it's the right road to go down. Below are some common questions people often have about coming to therapy.

If you don't see an answer to your question here, don't worry! I am always happy to speak with you in advance of scheduling an appointment to answer any questions you may have.

What will I get from therapy?

Does therapy mean I can't handle my life myself? I don't want to rely on someone else.

What can I expect in therapy?

What about medication?

I'm concerned about my privacy. Is therapy confidential?

A number of benefits are available from participating in therapy. In addition to providing support, I can help you with problem-solving strategies and coping skills. I can also help you gain a new perspective on existing problems, which can be a step towards initiating personal growth and change. Therapy often leads to improved self-confidence, because you come away from the process with insight about yourself and your experiences, as well as the tools to better handle problems and navigate relationships.

Life is HARD! Just being human presents many, many challenges, especially in today's extremely complicated world. Even if you've never felt overwhelmed before, but lately you have been struggling, there's nothing wrong with seeking help when you need it. And, it's never too late, either—if you have struggled in the past but never sought therapy, now is still the right time. In fact, therapy is perfect for people who have enough self-awareness to realize that they could use a bit of help and support, whether it's during, after, or even long after life's many challenges arise. When people seek therapy, they are ready to meet these challenges and to make changes in their lives.

Therapy is different for everyone, because it is an extremely individual process. As your therapist, I get to know you and the specific issues you are facing, and I tailor my treatment to your needs. We collaborate to formulate your goals (meaning, what you would like to get out of therapy) and work together to assess progress as we move through the therapy process.

Typically, we talk about the events currently happening in your life, as well as your personal history. We try to connect the past and present when necessary to better understand yourself, your relationships, and your behaviors and reactions.

Therapy can be short-term or long-term, depending on your therapy goals. Either way, we would meet regularly (usually weekly).

People always ask me "How long will this take?!" You might be wondering that yourself. The short answer is that it depends on the individual. The longer answer is that it also sometimes has to do with how motivated you are to take in new perspectives, to learn new skills, and to consider new approaches. The work of change is not necessarily a quick fix, but it is almost always deeply meaningful.

In some cases, a combination of medication and therapy is the right course of action. If we determine that medication may need to be a part of your treatment, I will work with you to find a qualified practitioner to prescribe and manage your medication needs.

Yes, within limits. Maintaining your confidentiality is one of the most important aspects of my job, and it is required by law and professional ethics. Successful therapy requires discussing highly sensitive subject matter, so you need to be able trust that what you say in my office will stay in my office.

However, New Jersey state law and professional ethics require me to report the following to law enforcement and/or the Division of Child Protection and Permanency (DCPP):

  • Suspected present (currently ongoing) abuse or neglect of children, adults, or elders based on information provided by the client or collateral sources
  • Suspicion that you are seriously in danger of harming yourself or intend to harm another person

Otherwise, you can expect that what you discuss in session will not be shared with anyone. Sometimes, you may want me to share information or give an update to someone on your healthcare team (for example, your physician) or to a member of your family, but by law I cannot release this information without obtaining your written permission.

Hopefully, these general questions help to give you a bit of insight into the process of seeking and attending therapy. But please don't hesitate to reach out if there is a different or specific question that's on your mind.