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Common Concerns
About Starting Any Kind of Counseling or Psychotherapy
In general people who have never been in therapy worry about what they say in my consulting room. So let’s get the exceptions out of the way. If you are seriously planning to hurt yourself or someone else I have to make sure that you (or you and the other person) are safe. I’m absolutely serious so please don’t take me lightly. There is no confidentiality in this case, or in the case of physical or sexual child abuse. I’ll be there to continue to help you (unless you actually go through with harming yourself or someone else) but confidentiality is out the window.
This does not include telling me you feel like committing suicide, or that you are so angry you feel like hurting the person you are angry at. Thinking about, or expressing how you feel is something that my patients express every day. I don’t violate their confidence. I work with them on how much pain they are in, and help them find the right set of strategies to relieve their pain.
Depression
People who struggle with depression often feel down for extended periods. They lose interest in activities that they once found pleasurable. Their self image suffers, their interest, motivation, and energy is affected. Many have sleep disorders, trouble with concentration, appetite and sexual desire. Depression negatively affects millions of Americans each year.
Depression and Medications
Many people who struggle with depression are afraid that I will insist that they take anti depressant medications. I cannot prescribe them. It’s not in the scope of my license. Only physicians can prescribe; and psychiatrists are usually the best kinds of physicians to do so. I never insist, but there are times I will suggest that you go for an evaluation for antidepressant medications. Maybe you will agree, and maybe you won’t. As long as you are competent to make decisions the final decision is in your hands. I also want you to know that I understand that many patients have concerns that medications may make them feel worse, or that they may have side effects. I believe that under the right circumstances, with the right medication, at the right dosage, for the right amount of time may be life saving, or at least shorten the period of time that you are suffering. But let me say this again, the final decision is yours. I cannot recall a time when I have refused to treat someone because they wouldn’t go for an evaluation, or follow through and take medications prescribed. There are always exceptions, but I strongly believe in choice.
Anxiety and Stress
Stress and anxiety are related, but often confused. Stress is tension associated with a specific event (e.g. a test or a job), while anxiety is a non-specific worry about the future. To find relief, people with anxiety may turn to repetitive routines, preoccupations, or addictions.
Arguments
Conflict resolution is an important part of any relationship. Conflict plays a vital role in allowing two people to reconcile differing needs. Unfortunately, when conflict is handled poorly, it can cause distress in the relationship.
Trauma
Experiences that overwhelm or scare us can leave a lasting impression. The symptoms can leave us stressed, depressed, and have negative consequences for our work and home life.
Communication
Feeling understood and understanding one’s partner is what allows couples to deeply share one another’s lives. Often, couples struggle with communication issues, which actually mask deeper relationship issues.
Trust
Trust plays a vital role in sustaining a relationship. People trust differently. For some, trust is established quickly, while others are slow to grant trust. Similarly, some are able to forgive quickly, while others find it hard.
Self-Esteem
Self-esteem is a feeling of personal worth. It is important to be able to value yourself regardless of your current state of personal achievement, beauty, or intelligence. Your self-esteem creates the foundation for a full life, great relationships, and a feeling of well-being. To see more on Self Esteem click on the hyperlink Self Esteem.
