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What can I expect from attending therapy?
During sessions you are expected to talk about primary concerns and issues in your life. Concerns are varied but tend to be related to unexpected changes in ones life or a need for self-exploration. Therapy can provide support and problem-solving skills when personal attempts at solving problems are not adequate. Some of the benefits from attending therapy include:
- Developing skills for improving your relationships
- Finding new ways to cope with stress and anxiety
- Managing anger, depression, and other emotioanal pressures
- Improving communication skills like listening and confrontation skills
- Improving your self-esteem and boosting self-confidence
- Getting "unstuck" from unhealthy patterns-breaking old behaviors and developing new ones
What can I expect in a therapy session?
During sessions you are expected to talk about primary concerns and issues in your life. A session lasts 50 minutes, but some people request longer sessions. Usually weekly sessions are best. During a crisis some people attend therapy more than once a week until the crisis passes. During the time between sessions you may be asked to engage in activities such as reading a relevant book or keeping records.
What if I don't know what my goals are for therapy?
If you aren't sure what your goals are for therapy, your first task in therapy is to figure that out. It may take several therapy sessions before a direction is clarified. During the course of therapy your goals may change. However, establishing a direction for therapy will help you get the most out of the experience.
Is therapy confidential?
In general, the law protects the confidentiality of all communications between a client and a psychotherapist. Information is not disclosed without written permission. However, there are a number of exceptions to this rule. Exceptions include:
- Suspected child abuse or dependant adult or elder abuse. The therapist is required by law to report this to the appropriate authorities immediately.
- If a client is threatening serious bodily harm to another person/s. The therapist must notify the police and inform the intended victim.
- If a client intends to harm himself or herself. The therapist will make every effort to enlist their client's cooperation in insuring their safety. If they do not cooperate, further measures may be taken without their permission.
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