Therapy Basics
What is Therapy?Psychotherapy takes so many different forms that it is difficult to generalize. In individual therapy, often it is a regular meeting between two people to learn about the client’s life and ultimately to discover and support ways for the client to live more free from suffering and to realize a satisfying, meaningful life. In couples or family work it is much the same, with the family members meeting to develop greater understanding, to enhance communication, and to work toward shared goals.
How often and for how long?
Sometimes a handful of fifty minute sessions gives someone tools with which to work and results are experienced quickly. More often, regular meetings over a period of 6 months or more can build a therapeutic relationship based in trust, understanding, and usefulness which allows the fruits of therapy to blossom over time. While the most typical meeting schedule in therapy is once a week, sometimes it makes sense to meet once a month, every other week or perhaps multiple times a week.
It is not uncommon for individuals in psychotherapy to feel their lives more fully at first, including the painful emotions, before discovering and traveling on paths which yield relief. Sometimes we may talk about past events and how they are impacting the person now, sometimes we may talk about pressing challenges like a break up, job change or loss, or life stressors. Sometimes I may help a client to learn techniques and practices which can empower him or her to bring more mindful awareness and balance to the mind and body. Sometimes we may work in creative visualization, dreams, or imagery and metaphor.
Will I feel better?
Often, over time in therapy, there is an experience of increased trust, and a discovery of the wisdom within one's own experience, even unpleasant experience. Many times this is aided by discernment of habitual efforts to protect one's self, efforts which are perhaps applied long after their usefulness has expired. Through mindful cultivation of curiosity and understanding, self- trust is earned and one's natural intelligence is uncovered and allowed to permeate experience.
What about payment?
Psychotherapy takes a commitment of resolve and prioritizing health and well-being. Not surprisingly, people often find that psychotherapy involves a financial commitment as part of that. I feel it is important to work out payment schedules which are sustainable and balanced with the goals of the therapy. As a Licensed Psychologist, I can provide monthly statements which most individuals can use for reimbursement under their health plan’s out-of-network benefit.