Your Questions Answered

We understand that starting therapy or choosing a new therapist can bring up many questions. To help you navigate this process, we’ve compiled answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about our practice, services, and the therapy process.

  • Therapy can benefit anyone interested in self-improvement, feeling stuck, or facing challenges they’re not sure how to overcome. It’s a proactive step toward mental wellness, whether you’re dealing with specific issues like anxiety or depression or seeking personal growth and better coping strategies.

  • Your first session is an opportunity for us to get to know each other and for you to share what brings you to therapy. We’ll discuss your goals, background, and any specific challenges you’re facing. It’s also a chance for you to ask questions and see how therapy can be tailored to your needs.

  • Most therapy sessions are 50 minutes long. However, certain types of sessions, like some group therapies or intensive sessions, may be longer. We’ll always inform you about session lengths ahead of time.

  • Yes, therapy is a confidential process, and your privacy is of utmost importance to us. There are a few legal exceptions to confidentiality, which we’ll explain during our first session.

  • The frequency of therapy sessions depends on your individual needs and goals. We typically recommend starting with weekly sessions and adjusting as we make progress.

Additional Resources for Support and Learning

  • Educational Websites

    Sites like www.psychcentral.com, www.psypost.org, and www.psychreg.org offer a wealth of articles and tools on various mental health topics.

  • Support Groups

    Local or online groups can provide community support for specific issues like grief, addiction, or parenting challenges.

  • Books and Podcasts

    We can recommend books and podcasts that delve into topics of psychology, personal growth, and mental health.

  • Crisis Hotlines

    For immediate support:

    Santa Barbara Access line 1-888-868-1649 and national suicide hotline 988 are available 24/7.