I’ve never talked to anyone. I’m used to handling things on my own. Aren’t people who go to therapy weak?
Not at all. It’s actually the opposite! People who ask for help know when they need it, have the ability to reach out and can ignore whatever negative stigma is associated with counseling. Why is it that when we want to learn something new or get better at something, we have no problem going to college or attending trainings and/or workshops. How is counseling different? It’s not! Everyone needs help now and then because we all have stress in life. It’s how we deal with it that will determine our outcome. We can always improve ourselves. We can always learn new ways to deal or cope with our stress, which will help us have better quality of life. You deserve to be happy and be the best person you can be. We’re confident that you already have some strengths that you’ve used before, but for whatever reason are struggling despite them right now. In our work together, we’ll help you identify what your strengths are and how to implement them to help you with what is happening now.
What’s the difference between talking to you or my best friend or family?
As professionals, we have the training and experience to help you. We can help you approach your situation in a new way– teach you new skills, gain different perspectives, listen to you without judgment or expectations, and help you listen to yourself. Your perception is your reality, your truth. It’s how you interpret something. Everyone perceives things differently, which is why we all have our own opinions. Counseling helps you to see something from other perspectives, in essence, other views which could offer other options. The more options you have, the better chance you have to succeed. Think of it as your life skills toolbox.
It’s important to point out that therapy is completely confidential. What is said between us stays between us. Other than these exceptions, what is said between us, stays between us.- If records are subpoenaed, disclosure is necessary to prevent serious, foreseeable, and imminent harm to you or someone else. Or when laws or regulations require disclosure without your consent such as mandated reporting for child abuse, elderly abuse, or child endangerment.
If your situation provokes a great deal of negative emotion, if you’ve been confiding in a friend or family member, there is the risk that once you are feeling better you may not feel comfortable around them, especially if your decision(s) did not align with their opinions of the what is going on. You may feel as though you are being judged or maybe you’re embarrassed. Counseling helps to work through those thoughts and feelings in a comfortable, safe space.
A side note – Amelia Island is small and there is a good chance that you will “run into” us in the community. Just know that if we see you, we will never address you unless we are addressed first.
Why shouldn’t I just take medication?
Medication alone cannot solve all issues. What medication does is treat the biological symptoms. Our work together is designed to explore the root of the issue, dig deep into your behavior and teach strategies that can help you accomplish your personal and/or relational goals so that you can be the best you can be.
Medication can be effective and is sometimes needed in conjunction with therapy.
How does it work? What do I have to do in sessions?
Every person comes with different issues that they want to work on, therefore, we tailor our therapeutic approach to your specific needs and goals. Counseling sessions will be different for each individual.
How long will it take?
Unfortunately, this is not possible to say in a general FAQs page. Everyone’s circumstances are unique to them and the length of time therapy can take to allow you to accomplish your goals depends on your desire for personal development, your commitment, and the factors that are driving you to seek therapy in the first place.
I want to get the most out of therapy. What can I do to help?
We’re so glad you are dedicated to getting the most out of your sessions. Your active participation and dedication is crucial to your success. After all, you’ll only typically see us for a session a week. It’s the work you do outside of our sessions that will really help you see your personal growth and development.
