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What happens in therapy
The therapeutic relationship starts with that first phone call or email. I will ask you to tell me a little bit about yourself; “what is important for me to know”? I will ask what you want from therapy, and I will answer any questions you may have about me and the way that I work.
After the initial phone call or email, if we decide to work together, we will meet for a session. This meeting may occur virtually or in person, and we will essentially have a conversation. In all our sessions, you will speak much more than I do, I will ask questions at times, I will encourage you to look inward and explore thoughts, feelings and sensations. There may be times that the process is uncomfortable, or disagreeable. I encourage you to tell me your experience in the sessions, to express anything that comes up, and to let me know if there is something you want to speak about, or alternatively, are not ready to share. While I am the experienced therapist and can offer guidance, thoughts and suggestions, you are the expert in your life.
People come to therapy for many reasons; sadness, grief, illness, pain, longing. There may be something in your life that just isn’t working anymore and you are looking for help to find the answer. My role is to be your guide on this journey. This process may lead to many things, a relief of pain, a discovery of joy, a letting go of what isn’t working any more, a moment of clarity or understanding of your self and your place in the world. Sometimes the process of therapy can be unsettling. Things can get worse before they get better, traumatic memories may intrude, and difficult feelings may increase. This is often a normal part of the process and we can discuss how to make this experience more manageable.