I’ve never talked to anyone about my feelings. I usually handle things on my own. Does that mean I’m weak if I go to therapy?
Actually, it takes real strength to recognize when you need support. Most of us are pretty good at pushing through on our own—until we’re not. Coming to therapy doesn’t mean you’ve failed at handling things. It means you’re smart enough to know that everyone hits points where an outside perspective helps. Your therapist will look at what’s already working for you and build from there.
What’s the difference between talking to a therapist and confiding in my best friend or family?
Your friends and family care about you, which is wonderful—and also why they can’t always give you what therapy provides. They have their own emotional reactions to your struggles. They might want to fix things quickly or tell you what they’d do.
A therapist offers something different: trained, objective support without personal stakes in your decisions. What you share stays confidential. There’s no risk of it coming up at Thanksgiving dinner or changing how someone sees you. And you won’t need to worry about burdening someone you care about with heavy emotions, then feeling awkward around them later.
Why shouldn’t I just rely on medication?
Medication can be helpful, and for some people it’s an important part of treatment. But here’s the thing: medication can help manage symptoms, while therapy helps you understand what’s driving those symptoms and gives you tools to handle life differently. The most effective approach for many people combines both. Think of it this way—medication might help you feel stable enough to do the work, and therapy is where the actual work happens.
How does therapy work? What can I expect in sessions?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer because you’re not one-size-fits-all. In your first session, you’ll talk about what brought you in and what you’re hoping to change. From there, your therapist will tailor the approach to fit your needs and goals. Some sessions might be more conversational, others more structured with specific exercises or skills practice. You’ll always know what you’re doing and why.
How long will therapy take?
We wish we could give you a definite timeline, but honestly, it depends. Some people come for a few months to work through a specific issue. Others benefit from longer-term support. It depends on what you’re dealing with, what you’re hoping to accomplish, and how things unfold as you work together. What we can tell you is that your active participation makes a real difference in how quickly you see progress.
I want to get the most out of therapy. How can I contribute?
We’re glad you asked. Show up—not just physically, but mentally and emotionally. Be honest, even when it’s uncomfortable. If something your therapist says doesn’t sit right with you, tell them. Try the things you discuss between sessions. And give yourself some grace when things don’t go perfectly. Your commitment to the process matters more than getting everything right.
Do you accept insurance?
Yes, we’re in-network with several major insurance providers. Contact us and we’ll verify your specific coverage and let you know what your copay or out-of-pocket cost will be. If we’re not in-network with your insurance, we’ll check whether you have out-of-network benefits and file the claim for you so you can receive any reimbursement directly.
What if I need to cancel or reschedule my appointment?
Life happens, and we understand that. We ask for 24-hour notice if you need to cancel or reschedule. This allows us to offer your time slot to someone else who’s waiting. Late cancellations or no-shows may result in a fee, which typically isn’t covered by insurance.
Is what I tell you really confidential?
Yes, with a few important exceptions. I’m required by law to break confidentiality if there’s risk of harm to yourself or others, if there’s suspected abuse of a child or vulnerable adult, or if a court orders me to release information. Outside of those specific situations, what you share stays between us. I take your privacy seriously.
Do you offer virtual sessions, or is it in-person only?
We offer both in-person sessions at our Montgomery office and secure telehealth appointments. Many clients appreciate the flexibility of virtual sessions, especially if they’re juggling work schedules or live further out. The choice is yours, and you can switch between formats if your needs change.
I’m not sure if I’m “bad enough” to need therapy. How do I know if I should come in?
If you’re asking this question, that’s reason enough to reach out. You don’t need to be in crisis to benefit from therapy. Many people come in because they’re feeling stuck, stressed, disconnected, or just know something needs to change. Therapy isn’t just for when you’re falling apart—it’s also for when you want to feel better, grow, or navigate a difficult transition.
What ages do you work with?
We work with children, teens, adults, couples, and families. Our therapists have different specialties and approaches, so we’ll match you with someone who’s the right fit for your situation.
What happens in the first session?
The first session is mostly about getting to know you and understanding what’s going on. We’ll talk about what brought you in, gather some background information, and discuss what you’re hoping to achieve. It’s also a chance for you to get a feel for whether we’re a good fit. By the end, we’ll have a sense of next steps and a plan for moving forward.
What if I don’t feel like my therapist is the right fit?
That’s important to address. A good therapeutic relationship matters, and sometimes the fit just isn’t there—and that’s okay. If you’re feeling this way, please talk to your therapist about it first. Sometimes issues can be worked through. If not, we’ll help you find a better match, either within our practice or elsewhere. Your progress is what matters most.