It is natural to communicate with close family and friends about personal matters that may bother us, especially if we trust them and want their feedback. Nevertheless, family and friends may not always give the “best advice,” which often stems from biases and judgment. As a result, it may make us feel misunderstood, disrespected, and like a burden.

Therapy intends to provide a safe space to be your authentic self without the unnecessary noise of anyone’s opinions. A mental health professional will bring their expertise to guide you through the challenges you may be experiencing by actively listening to your story and gently encouraging you to dive deeper beyond the surface. Ultimately, therapy is to provide new understandings of self and others, discover endless possibilities, develop healthy coping skills, and be ready to tackle any obstacles.

Therapy is not an easy decision to make for some. There are many different reasons to seek therapy. For instance, one may find it difficult to adjust to transitional phases, process traumatic stressors, or maneuver relational conflict. Therefore, it may be necessary to utilize self-reflection to assist in deciding whether therapy is an appropriate option for you.

Therapy is a safe and neutral space to explore your thoughts and feelings that may be components of the challenges you are enduring. It is neither a linear nor quick-fix process since it takes time and effort. As a result, it may move slower than your expectations. There will be moments of feeling uncomfortable as well as moments of feeling motivated to proceed on the path.

During the therapeutic process, we identify goals, review progress, and modify the treatment plan when necessary. Clients are encouraged to be open to exploring deeply and collaborate in the journey to reach their desired goals. On a weekly to biweekly basis, the average number of therapy sessions is between 10 to 25. Treatment plans consider clients’ therapeutic needs and goals to tailor an appropriate fit, so remember that it will appear different from person to person.

Medication will treat mental health symptoms (i.e., physical and psychological), especially if they interfere with daily functioning. Therapy will explore the root causes and gain skills to embrace desired change to thrive. Research has shown medication is most effective when combined with therapy. Yet, medication is not always necessarily appropriate for everyone as it is case by case.

It is important to note that a primary care physician and a psychiatrist can only prescribe medication related to mental health. Therefore, if you are interested in taking medication, we can discuss it further, and I can provide you with a referral list to inquire about more information.

The are several benefits to seeking therapy. However, there can be no guarantees made regarding the outcome of treatment. The expected benefits may include but are not limited to:

• Resolve presenting concerns.

• Improve relationships (i.e., intrapersonal and interpersonal).

• Reduce distress and enhance stress management.

• Expand one’s ability to cope with a variety of problems.

• Provide a deeper understanding of individual/relational goals and values.

• Increase relational harmony and lead to greater happiness.

It is essential to work toward achieving desired goals to obtain therapeutic benefits. Although, there are some risks to seeking therapy. The possible risks may include but are not limited to:

• Uncomfortable at times with change.

• Arouse unexpected emotional reactions to unpleasant events and alter relationship patterns.

• Unsettle by relational changes that may not be the initial intention.

• Unmet therapeutic goals.

Anything discussed in therapy will be confidential to protect clients’ right to privacy. Therefore, without written authorization, it may not be revealed to a third party. However, there are limitations when it is necessary to break confidentiality.

There may be moments when it is necessary to break confidentiality. The limitations include the following:

• If information about child abuse/neglect, vulnerable adult abuse/neglect, or self-harm/harm to others is revealed, I am required by law to report this to the appropriate authority.

• If a subpoena for your records is received, I may be required to provide described information.

• If therapy is court-ordered, I may be required to provide therapeutic progress information.

• If authorized to communicate with third parties, I may need to provide pertinent information.

• For minors seeking therapy, if engaging in risky behaviors is revealed, I may inform their legal parent/guardian. Thus, creating a safety plan may be necessary to ensure the safety of them and others.

We will collaboratively discuss a transition plan for discharge/termination as you progress and get closer to completing your goals. However, if therapy no longer benefits, you may request services to proceed with discharge/termination whenever you deem necessary. In doing so appropriately, attending at least one more session is highly recommended.

Absolutely! Life is unique, and new challenges may arise in the future. Therefore, you may feel returning to therapy to process those challenges is necessary.