Frequently Asked Questions
...the purpose of psychotherapy is to set people free
~ Rollo May
What is the purpose of therapy?
Although there are different models of therapy, all have common goals. These include increased self-awareness, a reduction or absence of symptoms and an improved quality of life and relationships. Some models of therapy solely focus on encouragement and support and clients can notice a brief reduction in symptoms. However often core issues remain, so therapeutic impact can be temporary. Ironically in some cases such supportive therapy can leave certain individuals with even greater anxiety or depression.
Both Short-Term Psychodynamic Psychotherapy and Emotionally Focused Relationship Therapy attempt to address central issues in order that underlying problems can be understood and worked through. This can result in a lasting and positive change in your life and in your relationships.
How frequently should I schedule my therapy sessions?
I suggest weekly or biweekly (once every two weeks) sessions. Therapy is much more than a 'friendly' chat and requires a level of responsibility and motivation on the client's part. Clients who wish to come monthly (unless at the end of their therapy) or on an occasional basis might not find that the therapy leads to significant symptom reduction or meaningful changes.
What is the fee structure?
Please discuss fee structure directly with me. My services may be partially or completely covered by your extended health care benefits. I also may be able to offer a moderate sliding scale in order to assist you.
Quotes from clients concerning cost:
"If you are at a point where I was-feeling overwhelmed - ready to change- you would be thinking "I deserve to care for myself this way.”
"When I realized the cost was around those couple of large lattes and the danish that I grab at the office each day-I thought this is worth it."
"Attending therapy was priceless to us. If we hadn’t spent the money there wouldn’t be a marriage.”
How will I know when I'm done therapy?
The number of sessions in both Relationship Therapy and Individual Therapy depends on a number of issues. The presenting concerns and the complexity of cases are just a few of the factors that impact the timing of therapy. I discuss the goals, progress and direction of therapy as well as possible end dates at regular intervals with my clients. This is an important and ongoing collaborative process. The goal of psychotherapy should not be to create dependency but to deepen each client's self awareness and emotional resources in order that that they can continue to do their own emotional and psychological work long after therapy ends.
I feel weak coming to therapy. Shouldn't I be able to do this on my own?
Beginning therapy actually takes real strength and determination - like all rewarding experiences it can be hard work at times. In every aspect of our lives we turn to others to understand more or make changes that we cannot do on our own - whether it is re-roofing our house - learning to fly-fish - addressing financial decisions or seeking help from our doctor. Because the idea of therapy can feel challenging, it is human to tell yourself- I should figure this out on my own. This can leave you trapped in emotional difficulties; struggling in life, relationships and work. Clients repeatedly describe their initial reluctance to therapy, and then their relief in actually beginning the process and how emotionally safe, understood and accepted they feel with me as well as with the therapeutic process.