Frequently Asked Questions

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 If you're feeling overwhelmed, stuck, anxious, depressed, or simply curious about personal growth, therapy can be a great step. You don’t need a diagnosis or a crisis to benefit — if something’s affecting your quality of life, therapy is worth considering. 

 Therapy sessions are usually 50 minutes long and involve open, honest conversation in a safe, judgment-free space. You’ll talk about your thoughts, feelings, and experiences, and we'll work together to explore goals, gain insight, and develop coping strategies. 

 That depends on your goals and what you're working through. Some people find a few sessions helpful, while others continue for months or even years. We’ll check in regularly to ensure therapy continues to meet your needs. 

 Yes, your privacy is protected. What you share in therapy stays between you and your therapist — with a few legal exceptions (such as threats of harm to yourself or others, or abuse involving minors or vulnerable adults). Your therapist will explain confidentiality in detail during your first session.

 That’s completely valid — and you’re not alone. Finding the right therapist is key. I aim to create a down-to-earth, collaborative environment where you feel heard, not judged. You’re welcome to ask questions and take your time deciding if we’re a good fit. 

 Benefits may include improved relationships, better coping skills, reduced symptoms of anxiety or depression, increased self-awareness, and personal growth.
Risks may include feeling worse before feeling better as you confront difficult emotions or past experiences. This is a normal part of the healing process, and I will support you through it. 

 All of these professionals are trained to provide talk therapy and help clients manage mental health concerns, life transitions, and emotional challenges. The main differences lie in their educational backgrounds and areas of emphasis:

• Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW): Master’s-level clinician trained in psychotherapy and systems thinking, with added focus on social context and connecting clients to community supports. LCSWs are fully qualified to diagnose and treat mental health conditions using evidence-based therapeutic approaches.
• Mental Health Counselor (LMHC or LPC): Also master’s-level, with specialized training in counseling theories and mental health treatment across the lifespan.
• Marriage & Family Therapist (LMFT): Focuses more on relational and family dynamics but is also trained to treat individuals.
• Psychologist (PhD or PsyD): Doctorate-level provider who can offer therapy and, in many cases, psychological testing. They may also work in academic or research settings.
   

In practice, all of these professionals can provide high-quality therapy —. What matters most is finding the right fit for your needs and preferences.