FAQs

What does a typical first appointment look like?

Whether meeting in-person or remotely, our first priority is to ensure your comfort and privacy. Your clinician would spend 5-10 minutes reviewing the your paperwork and discussing the nature of the therapeutic relationship, including client-therapist confidentiality. They would then ask thoughtful questions about your history, your background, and your reasons for seeking psychotherapy. The therapist may ask questions about your coping strategies, how you deal with your emotions, and challenges you’ve experienced in the past. They will ask about your goals and what you’d like to accomplish.

How long will therapy take to be effective?

The duration of therapy varies for each individual and depends on factors such as the nature of your concerns, your goals, and your level of commitment. Some people benefit from short-term therapy, while others may choose longer-term support. Your therapist will take time to assess your presenting concerns and treatment goals and provide a thoughtful assessment of the time involved during your first few treatment sessions.

How often should I attend therapy sessions?

Session frequency depends on your needs and the therapeutic approach. Initially, weekly sessions are common, but as progress is made, sessions may become less frequent. Your provider will discuss and adjust the frequency based on your progress and preferences.

Will everything I say be kept confidential?

Yes, confidentiality is a crucial aspect of therapy. What you share in sessions is generally kept confidential, except in cases where there is a risk of harm to yourself or others. Your clinician will discuss the limits of confidentiality during your initial session.

How do I know if therapy is working for me?

Your clinician will regularly evaluate your progress and discuss your goals. If you feel that therapy is not meeting your needs or if you have concerns, it's important to communicate openly with your provider so they can adjust their approach or explore different therapeutic options.

Can I bring up any topic in therapy?

Absolutely. Therapy is a safe and non-judgmental space for you to explore any topic or concern. Open communication about your experiences, thoughts, and feelings is vital for the therapeutic process.

What if I don't feel comfortable with my therapist?

It's important to feel comfortable and connected with your therapist. If you find that the therapeutic relationship is not a good fit, we can discuss your concerns openly. Sometimes, finding a therapist may involve trying a few sessions with different professionals. Careful Counseling has a variety of wonderful clinicians, however, we’re happy to refer outside of our practice to local resources if the match isn’t right. Your experience is what matters!

Will I be given advice, or is therapy just about talking?

While therapy involves conversation, the focus is on understanding yourself, gaining insight, and developing coping strategies. Rather than giving direct advice, the goal is to empower you to make your own informed decisions and changes. Depending on their approach, however, your therapist will provide you with explicit coping tools and strategies to support making meaningful changes in your thought process, emotional regulation, and behavior.

How do I handle difficult emotions that arise during therapy?

It's common for intense emotions to surface in therapy. You and your therapist will partner to explore and navigate these feelings. Developing coping mechanisms and emotional regulation strategies is an essential part of the therapeutic process and critical to making sustained behavioral changes. Our therapists are expertly trained to support you in managing a variety of emotions and encourage authenticity of expression during sessions.

Can I involve my family in the therapy process?

Family involvement, including loved ones and partners, can be beneficial in certain cases. Your clinician will discuss the possibility of family sessions based on your specific needs and goals. However, the decision to involve other parties will ultimately be yours and information related to your treatment is never disclosed without your explicit written consent.