Is going to therapy a weakness?
I would say, on the contrary, going to therapy is a tremendous strength. Therapy requires vulnerability, courage, desire for change, and adaptability. These are all characteristics that, in my opinion, encompass strength.
What’s the difference between talking to you versus talking to my friend?
While we all need supportive and loving friends, friends may not have the professional training that a licensed therapist has to teach you new skills. Friends also may have attachments or biases regarding situations you share because they are in your life. Whereas therapists are an unbiased ear that look and interpret your situation objectively. Lastly, if confiding in your friend provokes negative emotions within them, it’s possible that your friendship may suffer down the road.
Are medications supposed to help me?
Because I am not a medical doctor, I cannot offer specific recommendations or advice related to medications. What I can say is that generally, if therapy alone is not helping to improve your symptoms and overall functioning, it wouldn’t hurt to be evaluated by a psychiatrist to explore additional options. Literature shows that the people with the best treatment outcomes are those that attend therapy and psychiatry services at the same time. If you’re interested in meeting with a psychiatrist to discuss medications as an option to treating your symptoms, I am happy to provide you with referrals.
When will I feel better?
In an ideal world, I would be able to offer you a timeline on how long therapy will take but I unfortunately can’t. Everyone has unique circumstances and strengths. What I’ve seen is that timeline for therapy usually depends on a combination of personal development, commitment to meeting your goals, and having positive outside supports in your life.
Do you have sliding scale spots available?
Sometimes I do. If you’re needing a sliding scale fee due to financial constraints please ask me about it when we speak during our consultation.
Where are you located?
Right now I split my time between California and Florida and I’m able to work with you if you are either live in California or Florida, via teletherapy platform.
Do you offer phone sessions?
Currently I offer teletherapy sessions. Teletherapy is a form of therapy done virtually through a live video connection, similarly to Skype or Facetime. I use HIPPA compliant software to make sure that our session is private and that your personal information is protected. Teletherapy sessions are sessions done the same way as they would be in person, just done over the computer. I can offer telephone sessions if you need additional time to check in in between our hour-long sessions?
Do you offer in person sessions?
Yes, in person sessions are offered in Encino, CA.