Common Questions
Is it right for me? How does it help?
People enter therapy for any number of reasons. There may be a stressful events, like a recent loss, family or relationship difficulties, feelings of depression, anxiety, insecurity or low self esteem. Unhealthy behavior patterns such as substance abuse may occur. Feeling lost or empty or without direction is not uncommon. People enter therapy in search of greater fulfillment in life, more self awareness, wanting to develop more self esteem, learn better ways to manage their lives and emotions or looking for deeper spirituality. Whatever the reason, people experience meaningful and lasting changes and personal growth. Through therapy people learn to live their lives in a healthier and happier manner.
What about confidentiality?
Therapy is a sacred space where you can feel safe enough to talk about yourself and your problems and know that what is discussed remains private and confidential. To ensure privacy your therapist should provide you with a confidential disclosure agreement called "Informed consent". This means that anything discussed in therapy will remain completely confidential and will not be shared by the therapist with anyone. There may be occasions where the sharing of some information would be appropriate. These would include sharing information with your primary physician, other health care providers. You must give your expressed written consent for any information to be released.
There are, however, two circumstances where the therapist is ethically and legally required to report certain information to the appropriate authorities. This is called a "Duty to inform".
-
If the therapist has knowledge of, or suspects that there has been abuse to children, elders or "at risk" populations.
-
If the therapist has reason to believe that the client may be a danger to themselves or others.