What to expect during my first therapy session?
Your first session is often referred to as the intake session, which looks a bit different compared to your subsequent sessions. It will usually involve answering many questions about yourself, so that I can get a better understanding of your symptoms and presenting problems in order to determine your needs and the treatment that best fits you.
What to expect in my subsequent sessions?
This is where the real work begins once you've completed your first session with me. During the subsequent sessions, you can expect me to continually spend time getting to know you, to assist you in troubleshooting specific issues, and to help you unpack troubling thoughts and emotions that are causing you to act in a way that is problematic for you. The work could involve me asking you socratic questions that encourage you to think more deeply about a problem, doing role play exercises to improve your communication skills, or helping you create, revise, update, and move toward your life goals. At times, I may also assign you to work on some homework outside of your sessions to practice new skills and solidify things we've discussed in sessions.
How long should I be in therapy?
The answer to how long you should be in therapy is a complicated one. My answer is, it varies! Many factors need to be taken into consideration when you are thinking about when you should stop therapy, such as your personal preferences, the kind of therapy you are doing, and the severity of your mental health condition, etc. Some clients utilize therapy as a short-term problem solving tool that helps them resolve a specific issue so that they can get back on their feet. Others view therapy as more of an ongoing support that helps them buffer general life stress. From time to time, we will evaluate your progress in treatment together, and it is my goal to maintain an open dialogue with you should you have any concerns about your progress.