Counseling is a unique professional relationship in which the therapist and client focus on addressing solutions to client interpersonal relationship issues. It is unlike a friendship in that the counselor is not involved in your daily life and can be objective about your situation.  It is unlike a doctor-patient relationship in that the counselor will not usually tell you what to do, but will instead be a skilled listener to help you clarify issues, and discover your true wishes and feelings, and deal effectively with problems.

Many people find counseling an effective format for making changes and achieving their goals. There are no guarantees that counseling will answer your issues, since to be effective, it is necessary for you to take an active role. Participation involves discussing your concerns openly, completing assignments, and providing feedback to your counselor about the progress of counseling.

Length of counseling varies. Some problems lend themselves to a one or two sessions and a solutions focused strategy will be used to come to solutions quickly. Other personal problems may require a series of appointments, the length will be decided by you and your counselor.

Always let your counselor know whether you think you are making adequate progress or not.

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Here is a partial list of common concerns that could be addressed in counseling:

• Relationship problems (marriage, family, parenting, friendship issues)
• Mood and feeling problems ( depression, stress and anxiety)
• Emotional control issues (anger problems, suicidal thoughts, etc)
• Addiction problems (alcohol or drugs, eating, spending, etc.)
• Eating concerns

Some therpaists accept insurance so if you have insurance that covers mental health be sure to let us know when you make an appointment. With your coverage plan information we can contact your insurance company and see if we can help you determine what will and will not be covered.

Insurance companies do not pay for counseling by trainees, and usually not by an intern.

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