Psychotherapy is a collaboration between one person who has training,
education, expertise, and experience (the therapist) and another
(the client), who is the expert on his or her own life and is seeking
to make changes. I like to think of therapy as a thoughtful, mindful
conversation that occurs over time.
As a psychologist, I strive to provide a safe and supportive relationship
so that clients' strengths and inner wisdom can become evident.
I do not set the agenda of change - rather, I pay close attention
and suggest ways of approaching and working with difficulties so
that clients can find their own paths on this sometimes-rocky journey
of life.
To get the most out of your first consultation, whether with me
or another therapist of your choosing, try jotting down some responses
to the following questions. Bring your notes with you to your first
meeting.
- What are your reasons for seeking psychotherapy at this time?
- What is painful in your experience right now?
- What do you see as your biggest barriers to a more satisfying
life?
- If you were to have a truly satisfying experience in therapy -
what would you be doing, feeling, and thinking?
- What would be happening in your life that is not happening currently?
- What do you hope to learn? What needs further development in you?
- How will you know that you are finished with your psychotherapy?
- What gives you hope?
- What are your strengths?
