Alicia Roberts, LMFT
FAQ
Q: What is therapy? A: Therapy is an opportunity to discuss/talk about issues that are important to you while having a trained objective person (Therapist) help work through not only the current situation but in dealing with similar situations in the future. Therapy can be about one specific problem, or it can be about multiple. Something to mention is that therapy is a collaborative event, it requires an active role from both you and your therapist for change to occur.
Q: How can therapy help me? A: There are too many benefits of participating in therapy to list! Therapists can provide support, problem-solving skills, and coping strategies for a wide range of issues. Therapists, being objective, can provide a different or fresh perspective on a problem that you have been struggling with. The benefits of therapy depend on your commitment and level of readiness. Some benefits can include the following: Attaining a better understanding of yourself, your goals, and your values Developing skills for improving your relationships Finding a resolution to the issues or concerns that led you to seek therapy Learning new ways to cope with stress and anxiety Managing anger, grief, depression, and other emotional pressures Improving communication and listening skills Changing old behavior patterns and developing new ones Discovering new ways to solve problems in your family or marriage Improving your self-esteem and boosting self-confidence
Q: How long is a therapy session and how often will sessions be? A: Sessions are typically 50 minutes long and are often scheduled weekly, especially in the beginning. Most people have been struggling to deal with difficult situations by the time they come to therapy. Weekly sessions will help to keep you accountable and motivated to work towards your goals efficiently. As therapy progresses, we can work together to determine if weekly sessions will continue to be useful. Some people will find that as they begin to heal and grow, fewer sessions are needed. The frequency of sessions can be adjusted to best meet your needs and maintain positive change.
Q: What can I expect during the first session? A: The initial session is the time for you to share your story, and talk about your goals and what brings you therapy. During this first session, you will have the opportunity to see how therapy will work, review office policies, discuss privacy and confidentiality, as well as determine if we are a good fit. It is vital to have a positive working relationship with your therapist, so it’s a good rule of thumb that we meet 2-3 times before deciding whether the relationship will continue.
Q: How long will therapy last? A: Every client or couple is going through a unique situation, so the length of treatment will vary. Most people attend therapy for an average of 8-20 sessions, but it is always up to you how long you want to meet. Some clients will get what they need in 4-5 sessions, whereas others may attend therapy for six months to a year. Many factors will help determine the length of therapy, including the complexity of the issue, how much growth and change you want to make, how deeply you would like to explore the issue, and your commitment to making and maintaining positive changes. I will work with you to determine the appropriate schedule for therapy.
Q: Why do people go to therapy and how do I know if it is right for me? A: People have many different motivations for coming to psychotherapy. Some may be going through a major life transition (unemployment, divorce, new job, etc.), or are not handling stressful circumstances well. Some people need assistance managing a range of other issues such as low self-esteem, depression, anxiety, addictions, relationship problems, spiritual conflicts, and creative blocks. Therapy can help provide some much-needed encouragement and help with skills to get them through these periods. Others may be at a point where they are ready to learn more about themselves or want to be more effective with their goals in life. In short, people seeking psychotherapy are ready to meet the challenges in their lives and ready to make changes in their lives. Knowing if therapy is right for you can take some time and some self-reflection. You can talk to your therapist if you have any concerns about your reaction to therapy. It is important to be open with your therapist and give honest feedback on your experience so that your therapist is aware and can help make things right or even refer you to a different therapist who can give you the experience you are looking for.
Q: Is therapy confidential? A: In general, the law protects the confidentiality of all communication between a client and a psychotherapist. No information is disclosed without prior written permission from the client. However, there are some exceptions required by law to this rule. These exceptions include Suspected abuse to a child, dependent adult, or elder. The therapist is required to report this to the appropriate authorities immediately. If a client is threatening serious bodily harm to another person. The therapist is required to notify the police. If a client intends to harm himself or herself. The therapist will make every effort to work with the individual to ensure their safety. However, if an individual does not cooperate, additional measures may need to be taken. By using insurance, the client allows their insurance to access confidential information. This is the only way insurance will pay for sessions.
Q: Why do people go to therapy and how do I know if it is right for me? A: People have many different motivations for coming to psychotherapy. Some may be going through a major life transition (unemployment, divorce, new job, etc.), or are not handling stressful circumstances well. Some people need assistance managing a range of other issues such as low self-esteem, depression, anxiety, addictions, relationship problems, spiritual conflicts, and creative blocks. Therapy can help provide some much-needed encouragement and help with skills to get them through these periods. Others may be at a point where they are ready to learn more about themselves or want to be more effective with their goals in life. In short, people seeking psychotherapy are ready to meet the challenges in their lives and ready to make changes in their lives. Knowing if therapy is right for you can take some time and some self-reflection. You can talk to your therapist if you have any concerns about your reaction to therapy. It is important to be open with your therapist and give honest feedback on your experience so that your therapist is aware and can help make things right or even refer you to a different therapist who can give you the experience you are looking for.
Q: Do you prescribe medication? A: No, I am not a medical doctor. Many of my patients find medication helpful, but many of them also progress well in therapy without medication. If you want to be evaluated for psychiatric medication, either contact your primary care physician or a psychiatrist. If you are already taking medication, I can coordinate care with your doctor.