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 isn’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.
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.
Is therapy unBiblical?
Many people feel that therapy does not line up with Scripture. Jesus is our healer but many of have been told “if you just pray enough” or “turn it over to Jesus”, everything will be okay. But what that fails to address is that Jesus never called us to walk this journey alone. He sent His own disciples out in pairs. He travelled with His disciples, not only for teaching but also for support.
Others may say that the therapeutic process does not align with Scripture, however, what better guide than Scripture for understanding the nature of human beings living in relationship than His Word? Often times we are living with untruths that lead us to a deep sense of shame or behavioral responses that are inconsistent with healthy relationships, and Scripture tells us that the truth will set us free (John 8:32). The therapeutic process helps us to see where we may be living in untruths and the revelation of truth can indeed set us free from the chains of shame and guilt.
Often times the therapeutic process is “reframing” thoughts and situations, and the ability to “reframe” from a Biblical perspective can often begin the process of alleviating the difficulties surrounding our struggles.
Even the tenets of the ethics of our profession line up with the Word, whether intentional or not: Unconditional positive regard (unconditional love), Autonomy (to respect the person’s right to make decisions for themselves, God-given Free Will), Non-maleficence (do no harm), Beneficence (do good), Justice (treat equally) and Fidelity (being loyal, faithful and trustworthy).
Having been privileged and honored to join in people’s Spiritual journeys and witness the work of God through the therapeutic process, is a living testimony of the value of a Biblical therapeutic relationship in difficult times.
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 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. 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, if one of you would like to continue in individual sessions, I could work with only one of you. It is not helpful to move from individual into couple’s work with the same therapist because of potential trust issues.