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Common Questions

Is therapy right for me?
Do I really need therapy?  I can usually handle my problems.
How can therapy help me?
What is therapy like?
Is medication a substitute for therapy?
Is therapy confidential?


 

Is therapy right for me?

Seeking out therapy is an individual choice. There are many reasons why people come to therapy. Sometimes it is to deal with long-standing psychological issues, or problems with anxiety or depression. Other times it is in response to unexpected changes in one's life such as a divorce or work transition. Many seek  advice in counseling as they pursue their own personal exploration and growth. Working with a therapist can help provide insight, support, and new strategies for all types of life challenges. Therapy can help address many types of issues including depression, anxiety, conflict, grief, stress management, body-image issues, and general life transitions.


Do I really need therapy?  I can usually handle my problems.

Everyone goes through challenging situations in life. While you may have successfully navigated other difficulties it can be helpful to seek out professional support when you need it. Therapy is for individuals who have enough self-awareness to realize they need assistance.  Therapy can provide long-lasting benefits and support, giving you the tools you need to avoid triggers, re-direct damaging patterns, and overcome whatever challenges you face.

How can therapy help me?


A number of benefits are available from participating in psychotherapy. Therapists can provide support, problem-solving skills, and enhanced coping strategies for issues such as depression, anxiety, relationship troubles, unresolved childhood issues, grief, stress management, body image issues and creative blocks. Many people also find that counselors can be a tremendous asset to managing personal growth, interpersonal relationships, family concerns, marriage issues, and the frustrations of daily life. The benefits you obtain from therapy depend on how well you use the process and put into practice what you learn. Some of the benefits available from therapy include:

  • Attaining a better understanding of yourself, your goals and values
  • Developing skills for improving your relationships
  • Finding resolution to the issues or concerns that led you to seek therapy
  • Learning new ways to cope with stress and anxiety
  • Managing anger, grief, depression, and other emotional pressures
  • Improving communications and listening skills
  • Changing old behavior patterns and developing new ones
  • Discovering new ways to solve problems in your family or marriage
  • Improving your self-esteem and boosting confidence


What is therapy like?

Every therapy session is unique and caters to each individual's specific goals. It is standard for therapists to discuss the primary issues and concerns in your life during therapy sessions. It is common to schedule a series of weekly sessions, where each session lasts around fifty minutes. Therapy can be short-term, focusing on a specific issue, or longer-term, addressing more complex issues or ongoing personal growth. There may be times when you are asked to take certain actions outside of the therapy sessions, such as reading a relevant book or keeping records to track certain behaviors. It is important process what has been discussed and integrate it into your life between sessions. For therapy to be most effective you must be an active participant, both during and between the sessions. Here are some things you can expect out of therapy:

  • Respect and understanding
  • Identification of persistent patterns and focusing on the obstacles that get in the way of change
  • Strategies for enacting positive change

Is medication a substitute for therapy?

In some cases a combination of medication and therapy is the best course of treatment. Working with a physician, you and your doctor can determine if medication might be helpful. Mitchell Rosen has a working relationship with knowledgeable and competent psychiatrists in the Inland Empire. If medication is being considered, Mitchell can assist patients in finding appropriate medical help

Is therapy confidential?

In general, the law protects the confidentiality of all communications between a client and psychotherapist. No information is disclosed without prior written permission from the client.

However, there are some exceptions required by law to this rule. Exceptions include:

  • Suspected child abuse or dependent adult or elder abuse. The therapist is required to report this to the appropriate authorities immediately.
  • If a client is threatening serious bodily harm to another person. The therapist is required to notify the police.
  • If a client intends to harm himself or herself, a therapist will do whatever is necessary to protect the patient including calling 911.
  • If the Family Law Court orders counseling and it is not ordered as confidential then the Judge and attorneys may receive reports as will litigants who are self-represented.


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