1. How do I know if I need therapy?

The most basic answer is that therapy might be helpful if you have a problem that continues to bother you after you have tried unsuccessfully to work through it on your own. People choose to see a therapist for various reasons including: anger management, unresolved grief, divorce, depression, anxiety, overwhelmed, self esteem,  or to increase relationship satisfaction.

2. How do I choose a therapist?

Choosing a therapist can be daunting. It is most important to find someone you trust and are comfortable talking with about the things that are causing you distress. It is helpful to think about if you are more comfortable with a certain type of person (gender, religion, age, etc). Researching therapists to discover if they have experience or specialize in the issues you are seeking help for ensures a more successful outcome.

3. What can I expect at the first session?

Usually there is intake paperwork to complete in order to give the therapist general information about you. If you are not able to complete the paperwork before the session it is recommended that you arrive at least 15 minutes prior to the appointment in order to have it completed prior to the time with the therapist. The first session is usually a time to get a good background and description of the problem you are wanting to work on. It is also a good opportunity for you to ask questions of the therapist about experience and discover if the counselor is right for you.