Frequently Asked Questions

Why pay a counselor instead of talking to my best friend?

Because for an hour you have the undivided attention of a trained professional whose task is to listen, reflect and help you generate the best solutions for your issue. During that time you do not have to worry about attending to anybody else’s problems or agenda.

How do I know you are the right counselor for me?

Successful counseling is based almost exclusively on a good fit between client and counselor. Most clients, if willing to listen to their “gut feeling”, are able to determine within the free half-hour consultation if I am what they are looking for.

How long do I have to be in counseling?

The process and overall length of counseling varies quite a bit and is wholly dependent on the nature of the problems being addressed and your goals. The more recent and isolated an issue, the more likely it can be improved or resolved in a relatively short period of time. The longer a problem or condition has lasted, the more likely it will take time to heal or resolve. I have expertise in both brief, solution-focused methods as well as long-term psychotherapy. A discussion of your current situation, goals and resources is always a key component of developing a tailored approach to fit your particular needs.

If I’m sad or anxious why not take a pill?

While anti-depressant and anxiety medications can be effective in reducing symptoms, the root-cause of the discomfort will need to be uncovered and addressed at the same time, to lessen the chances of recurrent episodes.

Are you a “shrink”?

No. “Shrink” is a (slightly insulting) nickname for psychiatrists. They are MDs and have the ability to write prescriptions for medications. I do not prescribe psychiatric medications but I work closely with prescribing physicians and psychiatrists as a normal part of coordinating a client’s treatment. I can provide referrals for an initial medication evaluation if necessary.

I’m afraid that if people find out I am going to counseling, they are going to think I am crazy.

The truth is that most relatively sane individuals have had some form of counseling during their lifetime, which has helped them weather “hard times”. Counseling is a confidential process.

My (business or love) partner and I are arguing all the time, why not “call it quits?”

Therapy can be very effective in teaching negotiation skills, fair-fighting technique and even ways to bridge diverging philosophies. You can always “call it quits”, after you have explored all available solutions.

Our kids are difficult and obnoxious. Can you fix them?

Working with the parents is most often the best “fix” for problematic children and it is my preferred method to address parenting issues.