Frequently Asked Questions:

Why would I choose to enter therapy?

You may choose therapy when you find yourself in crisis, when you haven't been able to work through an ongoing issue that interferes with daily life, or when a relationship that is central to your life and well-being feels unhealthy or dangerous.

How do I find a Therapist?

You can get a referral from many sources: friends, doctors, clergy, therapist publications, or even the phonebook or Internet. As you begin the selection process, you may want to do the following:

• Get a few names and call them.

• Be prepared to leave a message with contact information and good times to call you back. You can give a little information about your problem or choose to wait to speak to the therapist in person.

• Write out any questions or concerns you have. Good questions to include: “How long have you been in practice?” “What are your areas of expertise?” “What hours are you available and what is your cost?” “Have you ever been in therapy yourself?” “Are you licensed?” (If they are not licensed, ask “Are you registered as an Unlicensed Therapist with DORA?” This will protect you.)

• Speak with them by phone. If you feel comfortable enough, make an appointment.

• Continue to assess your comfort level as you meet. Usually after three sessions, you will know if this a good fit.

How do I know if I have a good, professional therapist?

A Professional has: training to provide a safe environment, skills to help you specifically define the problem and how it affects you; methods to help you explore its source, and ability to help you generate a plan for change. A good therapist should be non-judgmental, compassionate, and collaborative.

How long will I be in therapy and how do I know when I am finished?

Therapy that focuses on a specific issue can be seen as a professional consult. You may have already defined the problem and may have even identified a goal. This type of treatment can be as brief as three to six sessions.

Therapy dealing with deeper issues such as trauma or early damaging relationships will last longer. This type of treatment will often take up to a year or more. During this time you will develop insight into the nature and source of the problem and master skills to move in the right direction.

You know you're finished when you can resume daily functioning while dealing effectively with the problems that brought you into therapy.