Should I seek out therapy?

Starting therapy is an individual decision. Some people come to therapy due to past experiences. Others come due to current difficulties or long­term problems. If there are unexpected changes in one’s life such as death or divorce, people may seek the advice of a therapist. Finding the right therapist can help provide insight, coping strategies and changes in patterns. Therapy can help with many areas of life such as transitions, anxiety, depression, and relationship issues. Therapy is right for those interested in gaining strength, support, strategies and moving forward toward a healthier way of life.

What does a therapy session look like?

Therapy session usually last about 55 minutes and are unique to individual goals. In general, therapy is scheduled for a session once a week. During therapy sessions, the therapist and client partner to gain knowledge of past experiences and current situations that are causing stress. Therapy can be short­term, focusing on a specific problem or longer­term, addressing more complex issues. The therapist may ask the client to read certain articles or books or may have the client keep records of thought, emotions and behaviors. Between sessions it is important to practice what is learned in therapy and follow through on assignments when given. In order for therapy to be most effective, it is important that the client be an active participant, both during and after sessions.

How will therapy help me?

Therapy can provide coping strategies, problem solving and insight into life situations. It can help clients become more resilient, solve problems and change patterns. Sometimes, it can be helpful to have someone to listen to your situation. The hope is that therapy can lower anxiety, depression and stress, help you manage conflict and improve your overall quality of life.

Some of the benefits of therapy:

• Gaining coping strategies for stress and anxiety
• Changing unhealthy patterns or behaviors
• Gaining insight into current situations or problems
• Improving depression, fluctuating moods and managing anger
• Coping with difficult family situations
• Improving relationships