What can I expect from counseling?
The decision to begin counseling (sometimes called therapy) is an important one. People I work with have reported both a greater level of comfort and more favorable results when they understand what to expect from the counseling process.
Counseling may help you with a variety of concerns, including personal issues (e.g., relationships, parenting, major loss/grief, significant life changes, conflict resolution, sexuality, recovery, spirituality, etc.), career exploration and life planning (e.g., clarification of your career interests & employment options, articulating life goals & setting a course of action to achieve those goals, etc.), and academic or vocational problems (e.g., test-taking/study skills, time management, workplace conflict, retirement, career changes, etc.).
After discussing the concerns that led you to counseling, you and I will decide which services are appropriate. I may refer you to workshops, group counseling, medical evaluations, or other resources as appropriate.
In order to benefit fully from counseling, I suggest that you:
- Attend scheduled sessions
- Be as specific as you can about the concerns that led to your decision to seek counseling
- Establish with me your desired goals and what your life will look like when you have achieved your goals
- Discuss your progress with me as you go along, and modify your goals if necessary
- Participate actively, and be as open and honest as possible
- Be prepared for your sessions; complete (or at least attempt) any "homework"
- Tell me about how our work together is going for you
You can expect me to:
- Keep our scheduled appointments
- Work with you to establish and achieve your goals for your life
- Take your concerns seriously - I will be present to you
- Check-in with you often about our progress together
- Utilize a variety of proven techniques best suited for you and our work together
- Be honest with you
- Maintain your confidence within established legal and ethical parameters
Successful counseling is a joint process requiring your motivation and active involvement. The more actively involved you are, the more effective counseling will be for you.
