I’ve never talked to anyone. I’m used to handling things on my own. Aren’t people who go to therapy weak?

Not at all. People who ask for help know when they need it and have the ability to reach out. Everyone needs help now and then. You already have some strengths that you’ve used before, that for whatever reason aren’t working right now. Perhaps this problem feels overwhelming and is making it difficult to access your past strengths. In our work together, I’ll help you identify what those strengths are and how to implement them again in what is happening now.

I feel if we need pre-marital counseling we shouldn’t be getting married. Is that true?

On the contrary. In my experience, pre-marital counseling can only benefit your relationship. You will be given a gift. A special toolbox for your marriage. This toolbox is unique to your relationship and will be beneficial when naviagting through life with your partner. You will learn better and more effective ways to communicate, how to resolve conflict, and how to maintain respect and honesty, just to name a few.

What is your success rate for marriage counseling?

Those who do the work see the best results. I have facilitated the healing and recommitment of many broken relationships. I’ve also had to assist couples separate and/or divorce whilst continuing to remain respectful and courteous of one another and the family unit.

What’s the difference between talking to you or my best friend or family?

The difference is between someone who can do something, and someone who has the training and experience to do that same thing professionally. A mental health professional can help you approach your situation in a new way– teach you new skills, gain different perspectives, listen to you without judgment or expectations, and help you listen to yourself. Furthermore, therapy is completely confidential. You won’t have to worry about others “knowing my business.” Lastly, if your situation provokes a great deal of negative emotion, if you’ve been confiding in a friend or family member, there is the risk that once you are feeling better you could start avoiding that person so you aren’t reminded of this difficult time in your life.

Why shouldn’t I just take medication?

Medication alone cannot solve all issues. What medication does is treat the symptoms. Our work together is designed to explore the root of the issue, dig deep into your behavior and teach strategies that can help you accomplish your personal and/or relational goals.

Medication can be effective and is sometimes needed in conjunction with therapy.

How does it work? What do I have to do in sessions?

Because each person/couple has different issues and goals for therapy, therapy will be different depending on the individual. I tailor my therapeutic approach to your specific needs.

How long will it take?

Unfortunately, this is not possible to say in a general FAQs page. Consistency brings the best results. Everyone’s circumstances are unique to them and the length of time therapy can take to allow you to accomplish your goals depends on your desire for personal development, your commitment, and the factors that are driving you to seek therapy in the first place.

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 is crucial to your success. After all, we only see each other for a session a week. It’s the work you do outside of our sessions that will really help you see your personal growth and development.

My partner and I are having problems. Should we be in individual counseling or come together?

If you are concerned about your relationship, and you would both like to work with me, I would initially work with both of you together. After this work or alongside it, if one of you would like to continue in individual sessions, we could definitely do so.

What are warnings signs of a marriage in trouble?

• Ridicule.
  Contempt.
  Lack of trust.
  Stonewalling (ignoring).
  Name calling.
  Hurtful comments.
  Sarcasm that is hurtful.
  No or infrequent sex.
  No or very little attraction.
  No or very little affection.
  Avoiding phone calls or emails.
  Refusing to discuss things in the relationship.
  Defensiveness
  Working constantly in or outside the home or spending all the time with the children somas to avoid talking or spending time together.
  Criticism.
  Physical or emotional abuse.