Frequently Asked Questions
Starting therapy is a personal and often courageous decision. It’s natural to have questions about what to expect and how the process works. Below you’ll find answers to some common questions about therapy, my approach, and practical details that can help you feel more informed and comfortable as you begin.
What types of therapy do you offer?
I provide outpatient psychotherapy for children, adolescents, and adults. My approach is integrative and tailored to each individual. I draw from several evidence-based and insight-oriented approaches, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Psychodynamic Therapy, Systems Therapy, and Play Therapy for younger clients. This flexibility allows me to meet clients where they’re at and adapt treatment to best support their goals and growth.
How do I know if therapy is right for me?
People often start therapy when they feel stuck, overwhelmed, or uncertain about how to move forward. Whether you’re experiencing stress, anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, or life transitions, therapy can help you gain perspective, develop new coping skills, and create meaningful change. However, you definitely don’t have to wait for things to feel “bad enough”—therapy can also help you grow, heal, and better understand yourself and your experiences.
What can I expect in the first session?
The first session is a chance for us to get to know each other and discuss what brings you to therapy. We’ll talk about your goals, what’s been challenging, any symptoms that have been bothering you, and what you hope to achieve. I’ll also review confidentiality and answer any questions you may have. Together, we’ll begin to shape a plan that feels comfortable and aligned with your needs.
How long does therapy take?
The length of therapy varies depending on your goals, preferences, and the issues we’re addressing. Some individuals benefit from short-term therapy focused on specific concerns, while others prefer longer-term work for deeper understanding and change. We’ll check in regularly to make sure the process continues to meet your needs.
How can I get the most out of therapy?
Therapy works best when it’s an active, collaborative process. Here are a few ways to make the most of your experience:
Be open and honest. The more you share—especially about your thoughts and feelings—the more we can understand what’s really going on.
Reflect between sessions. Notice what comes up for you during the week and bring those observations to therapy.
Be patient with yourself. Growth takes time and often includes both insight and discomfort. Try to hang in there when feelings come up.
Practice skills outside of sessions. Applying what we discuss in your daily life reinforces change.
Be consistent. Keep coming especially when things feel hard or even if it seems like the work need not be finished because a stressor has naturally subsided - make sure you’re sticking to your goals.
Give feedback. Therapy is most effective when it feels like a true partnership—let me know what’s working and what’s not.
What’s the difference between CBT, ACT, Psychodynamic, and Systems Therapy?
Each approach offers unique insights and tools; depending on your goals, we may integrate elements from several approaches.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Focuses on identifying and changing unhelpful thought patterns and behaviors.
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT): Helps you accept what’s outside your control while taking action guided by your values.
Psychodynamic therapy: Explores how early experiences and unconscious patterns influence current emotions and relationships.
Systems therapy: Looks at relationships and family dynamics, helping improve communication and patterns within the systems you’re part of.
How does play therapy work for children?
Play therapy allows children to express themselves naturally—through play, art, and imagination. It gives them a safe space to process daily stressors, big and small emotions, practice problem-solving, and build coping skills. Parents are often part of the process so that growth in therapy supports healthy change at home as well.
What’s the difference between psychology and psychiatry?
While both fields focus on mental health, they differ in training and approach:
Psychologists (like myself) specialize in psychotherapy—helping people understand and change thoughts, emotions, and behaviors through talk therapy and evidence-based interventions.
Psychiatrists are medical doctors who can prescribe medication and often focus on the biological aspects of mental health.
Many clients benefit from a collaborative approach, where therapy and medication work together. Therapy helps you understand patterns, build insight, and develop coping strategies, while medication (when appropriate) can reduce symptoms that make progress more achievable.
If you are working with (or choose to work with) a psychiatrist or primary care provider, I am happy to coordinate care with them to ensure a well-rounded treatment plan. To do so, you would simply sign a Release of Information, which allows me to consult with your doctor while maintaining your confidentiality and privacy. This communication is always handled respectfully and only with your consent.
Should I be open to taking medication if it’s recommended?
Being open to medication doesn’t mean you have to take it—it simply means staying curious and informed. For some people, medication can provide valuable support, especially when symptoms like depression, anxiety, or sleep issues are interfering with daily life. If it seems like medication might be helpful, I can help you explore your options and coordinate with your prescriber so your care feels consistent and collaborative. The decision is always yours, and we’ll discuss any questions or concerns you may have along the way.
Is therapy confidential?
Yes. What we discuss in therapy is confidential and protected by law. The only exceptions are rare situations involving safety concerns or legal obligations, which we will review together during your first session.
What if I’m nervous about starting therapy?
This would make a ton of sense! It’s completely normal to feel nervous or uncertain about beginning therapy. Many people share this feeling at first, especially if they are from a family system or cultural background where therapy is not always encouraged. My goal is to provide a space that feels safe, collaborative, and free of judgment—where you can move at your own pace and explore what matters most to you.
For questions about cost, insurance, cancellation, etc. head over to our rates page.
“You must do the things you think you cannot do.”