Frequently Asked Questions


How can psychotherapy help me?

Seeing a psychotherapist does not mean that you are crazy or that something is wrong with you or that you can't handle your problems. In fact, seeking counseling can be a wise and courageous way of handling problems. Our culture gives independence such a high rating that we forget that using help appropriately is a sign of strength, not weakness. Although feeling good about yourself may be, for the most part, a do-it-yourself job, that still does not rule out getting professional help when you feel emotionally stuck.


How can I decide whether I need psychotherapy or not?

If you are experiencing any of the following feelings to excess it would be wise to discuss it with a therapist: lonely and estranged, in crisis, confused about how you feel, over-stressed, suffering a tragedy, unable to cope with daily problems, very anxious, depressed for more than a few days, lacking control over eating or drinking behaviors, uncontrollably angry, guilty, in physical pain that you suspect has psychological roots. These symptoms are signs that you have some unmet needs. They are clues that you need to examine your life and if it is not measuring up to what you want for yourself, you need to take responsibility for making changes. Psychotherapy can help you to apses your life situation and get it in sync with your goals.


What can I expect from psychotherapy?

First, you have a right to expect honesty, confidentiality, and emotional support from a therapist. You will probably feel relief from unburdening yourself to someone who will really listen. Your feelings are validated and you receive reassurance that your feelings are okay. You also get a sense of your options. You find you do have choices, that you are not trapped as you may have thought–even if your only choices relate to how you perceive your situation and how you will respond to it. This sense of choice can be freeing and empowering. Another objective of therapy is greater self-responsibility. Part of the process may be painful as you are asked to look at your own part in your problems. This may be uncomfortable at first, but the rewards are great.


What can I get out of a successful therapy?

Your life will have more meaning, your self esteem will be restored and you will feel like a more effective human being. Just as in life, if happiness is a major goal, it will probably be achieved. But if other worthwhile goals are achieved, happiness will follow.


The 12 signs of depression

Loss of appetite • Depressed affect • Psychomotor agitation or retardation

Sleeplessness or hypersomnia • Lack of energy • Poor concentration & indecisiveness

Social withdrawal • Feelings of hopeless ness, worthlessness or inappropriate guilt

Low self esteem • Unresolved grief issues • Mood-related hallucinations or delusions

History of chronic or recurrent depression



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