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. People who ask for help know when they need it and have the ability to reach out. Everyone needs help now and then. You already have some strengths that you’ve used before, however for some reason aren’t working right now. Perhaps this problem feels overwhelming, making it difficult to access your past strengths. I’ll help you identify those strengths and develop new coping strategies.
What’s the difference between talking to you or my best friend or family?
The difference is between someone who can do something, and someone who has the training and experience to do that same thing professionally. A mental health professional 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. The therapy relationship is focused on you, whereas family and friend relationships are based on mutual needs. Furthermore, therapy is completely confidential. You won’t have to worry about others “knowing my business.” Lastly, if your situation provokes a great deal of negative emotion, there is the risk that once you are feeling better you could start avoiding that friend or family member you confided in.
Why shouldn’t I just take medication?
Medication alone cannot solve all issues and doesn’t help build skills. What medication does is treat the 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.
Medication can be effective and is sometimes needed in conjunction with therapy.
How does it work? What do I have to do in sessions?
Because each person has different issues and goals for therapy, therapy will be different depending on the individual. The therapeutic approach will be tailored to your specific needs. Therapy starts with assessing your problems and identifying goals. Interventions and approaches are evidence-based and very individualized.
How long will it take?
Unfortunately, this is not possible to answer in a general FAQ page. Everyone’s circumstances, symptoms, and goals are unique to them. The length of time therapy can take depends on your individual goals, your desire for personal development, your commitment, and factors that drove you to initially seek therapy. This practice uses integrative approaches of therapy combined with technology based virtual reality therapy and biofeedback, which has been proven to shorten the duration of therapy, as gains are realized much sooner.
I want to get the most out of therapy. What can I do to help?
Being dedicated to the process is the best way to get the most out of your sessions. Your active participation and commitment is crucial to your success. After all, we only see each other for one session a week. It’s the work you do outside of our sessions that will really help you realize your personal growth and development.
What is virtual reality therapy?
Virtual reality therapy (VRT) or Virtual Reality Immersion Therapy (VRIT) is a therapy that integrates cutting edge virtual reality equipment, biofeedback, and platforms containing multiple scenarios and environments combined with proven therapy techniques. VRT provides the opportunity for mental health professionals to not only reproduce real life scenarios, but to also adapt and control these environments to suit your individual needs. This technology allows mental health professionals to evaluate and identify your fears and anxieties within the safety of a consultation room. VRT is a tool that effectively facilitates the application of therapy intervention protocols, immersing you in the experience while you practice various coping skills with the support of your therapist. Your physical body responses, such as heart rate, can be also be measured during VRT immersion, which provides objective data for progress.