About Psychotherapy

The reason each person has for seeking a psychotherapist varies just as people vary, but certain themes emerge.

For many, the motive is relief from feelings of depression, anxiety, grief or guilt:  for help with panic attacks or phobias.  For others, it is the circumstances or relationships in their lives that have become difficult to deal with.  No one is fully described by one problem, one disorder or one need, but the initial problem is often the catalyst for improving one's life.  Life transitions are a common theme as people go through the changes of marriage and divorce, new jobs and career and changes in one's life goals or priorities.

For all who seek therapy, there is a desire to grow coupled with the courage to change.  Inevitably, there are times when we lose our way, make mistakes or flounder in doubts about our own abilities. A skilled therapist understands and can help us to find solutions to problems and relief from pain in a nonjudgmental atmosphere.  Life is a journey without end.  Learning to foster our strengths and nurture a sense of well being and peace that persists in the face of all challenges is an important and vital task.

Length of Therapy:  People often ask, "how long does therapy take?"  The answer is, of course, "It depends."  If you have an issue that is very limited such as, "Should I quit my job?" or a very temporary crisis, then one to six sessions might suffice.  However, more typically it takes from between 12 to 30 sessions to truly explore a problem in your life and resolve it satisfactorily.  This would be considered brief therapy and for some a longer period of therapy might be necessary when working with emotional issues of a long standing nature or issues that are very complex.  For a good discussion of the various aspects of psychotherapy, go to therapynetwork.net and read what they have to say in "Therapy Information."