What is psychotherapy and how does it work?

Psychotherapy is a collaborative treatment based on the relationship between you and your psychologist. It provides a supportive environment that allows you to talk openly with someone who is objective, neutral, and nonjudgmental.

Through regular sessions, we work together to identify and change thought patterns and behaviors that may be contributing to your difficulties. The goal is to help you develop healthier, more effective ways of coping with challenges and improve your overall well-being.

How do I know if therapy is right for me?

You don't need to be in crisis to benefit from therapy. Many people seek therapy to gain insight, develop coping strategies, or work toward personal goals.

Therapy can be beneficial if you're experiencing:

• Persistent feelings of sadness, anxiety, or overwhelm

• Difficulty managing stress or life transitions

• Relationship challenges or communication problems

• Low self-esteem or lack of confidence

• Trauma or unresolved past experiences

• A desire for personal growth and self-understanding

Is virtual/telehealth as effective as in-person therapy?

Yes, research consistently shows that teletherapy is just as effective as in-person therapy for most concerns. Studies have found that online therapy produces comparable outcomes to traditional face-to-face sessions for conditions including depression, anxiety, OCD, trauma, and relationship issues.

The therapeutic relationship—the most important factor in successful therapy—can be established just as effectively through a screen. Many clients find that meeting virtually actually helps them feel more comfortable and open, especially when discussing difficult topics from the safety of their own environment.

Benefits of teletherapy include:

• No commute time or travel stress

• Greater scheduling flexibility

• Access from anywhere with internet connection

• Increased privacy and comfort

• Continuity of care during travel or life disruptions

How long does therapy take?

The duration of therapy varies greatly depending on your individual needs, goals, and circumstances. Some people find relief in a few sessions focused on a specific issue, while others benefit from longer-term therapy to address more complex concerns.

We'll regularly review your progress together and adjust the frequency and duration of sessions as needed. You're always in control of when to conclude therapy.

What happens in the first session?

The first session, often called an intake, is an opportunity for us to get to know each other. I'll ask about what brings you to therapy, your history, current challenges, and goals for treatment.

This is also your chance to ask questions, share your concerns, and determine if we're a good fit to work together. There's no pressure to share anything you're not comfortable with, and we'll move at a pace that feels right for you.

By the end of the first session, we'll typically have a preliminary treatment plan and discuss next steps.

Can I use my insurance?

Yes, I will provide you with an invoice after each session that you can submit to your extended health plan for reimbursement. Please check with your insurance provider whether they reimburse claims for registered clinical psychologists.

Is everything I say confidential?

Yes, confidentiality is a fundamental part of therapy and is protected by law. Everything you share in our sessions remains private and won't be disclosed without your written permission.

There are a few legal exceptions where I'm required to break confidentiality:

• If there's an immediate risk of harm to yourself or others

• If there's suspected abuse of a child, elderly person, or dependent adult

• If records are subpoenaed by a court of law

We'll discuss confidentiality in detail during your first session, and I'm always available to answer questions about privacy.