Therapy and counseling

As a general psychology clinic, therapy and counseling are provided to children, adolescents and adults struggling with a wide range of problems in a variety of formats. The type of treatment is based on:

Problem type:

• Problems with mood (depression, mania, anger, emotional instability)
• Problems with anxiety (stress, worry, trauma, social anxiety, panic attacks)
• Problems in relationships (recurring problems, confusion, conflict)
• Problems with substance use
• Problematic behaviors (gambling, hypersexuality)
• Problems with eating (binging, purging, anorexia)
• Problems with grief and loss
• Problems with transitions, adjustments and self-esteem

Therapy format:

• Individual
• Couples
• Family
• Group

Current groups:

• Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) Skills Group
• Interpersonal Process Group
• Psychosocial Support Group for Individuals with Neurological Impairments 

What is therapy?

Therapy can be defined in many different ways. Every therapist has a unique point of view on therapy. Also, every therapy is unique for each client. However, there are several things that are common to all therapies. Therapy requires teamwork from two experts

The therapist is an expert on psychological principles to help you change. You are the expert on your life.

Therapy helps to reduce distress and improve well-being through several ways:

• Talking about your goals, motives and feelings
• Changing behavior
• Changing thought patterns
• Experiencing a new relationship with your therapist
• Exploring emotional experiences in a safe environment

Therapy tips

Discuss beliefs about therapy with your therapist

It's important to learn how your therapist views therapy so that you will know what to expect. Just as therapists have different ideas about therapy, you come to treatment with your own expectations. Be sure to share these with your therapist. This allows the two of you to work out any differences and build a common understanding of your therapy.

Talk about your relationship with your therapist

A good relationship with your therapist is one of the keys to successful therapy. You and your therapist may make a point to talk about it regularly. As therapy progresses, it is common for your feelings and thoughts about your therapist to change several times.

For example, you can have positive feelings toward your therapist sometimes, and at other times, have negative feelings such as anger or distrust. This is normal. It is important, however, to tell your therapist about these feelings.

Expect to learn about your therapy

You and your therapist will work together on a treatment plan that will help you with your specific goals and needs. As part of this, they will help you to understand the techniques that will be used to aid you in reaching your goals. Ask questions if at any time you do not understand why a specific technique is being used. If you have trouble understanding your therapist’s explanation, know that it is your right to ask more questions.  

Talk about your experience in therapy

Talk to your therapist about what is working and what isn’t working. Remember that you are an active member of your treatment team.

Hang in there when it gets uncomfortable

Over the course of therapy, you may tackle some tough issues. It’s normal to feel uncomfortable when you confront some issues. Your therapist will support you while you struggle with the challenges of therapy. The more honest, open, and willing you are to explore during your therapy, the more you will benefit.

Frequently asked questions

• Is what I say going to be repeated to other people?

  No. What you say in therapy is confidential. Your therapist will not share what you say with anyone outside the clinic. The only exceptions are:

  • If you have given us written permission to do so
  • If you are in immediate danger of harming yourself or someone else
  • If you file certain kinds of lawsuits

  From time to time, your therapist may discuss your case with his or her supervisor.

• How long is a therapy session?

  Therapy sessions last 45 minutes and are commonly held once per week.

• How long does therapy last?

  Therapy at our clinic is typically 16 weeks long. We'll review your progress in treatment together at 12 weeks and determine whether to extend treatment. If significant progress is made before 16 weeks, you and your therapist can discuss an earlier completion date.

• Will therapy work for me?

  There's good evidence that therapy benefits most people most of the time. Therapy works best when you and your therapist agree about your goals and how you will work together to reach them.