A Change Within, PLLC

FAQ’s

I’ve never talked to anyone. I’m used to handling things on my own. Aren’t people who go to therapy weak?

Are you trying to tell me you have never talked to a single person in your life? I find that hard to believe. Stop bullshitting yourself. Tell me about how you have handled things because what I can tell you is a crisis is a failure in coping skills so something has stopped working or is not working like it once was. First Responders and anyone who attends therapy are not weak. In fact, those who attend therapy are what I consider to be badasses.

What’s the difference between talking to you or my best friend or family?

First of all, there is a good likelihood your best friend/family/spouse/children/neighbors/mailman have NO DESIRE to listen to anything you experience while at work or off duty. In fact, you wouldn’t tell them even if they paid you.

I am literally trained how to do what I do. I went to school for a LONG time and I have a love of working with all of you and I am not considered “weird” like others tied to your place of employment. I know my shit. End of story.

Why shouldn’t I just take medication?

If you are a First Responder asking yourself this question, okay wait, you haven’t even likely considered this question at all because of numerous reasons and unfortunately due to numerous fears and myths. We’ll talk about meds in my office and if I have a suggestion or a recommendation and if you decide “hey she might have a clue” I’ll refer you to someone who can help you in that arena. Don’t sweat it for now.

How does it work? What do I have to do in sessions?

 First of all, NO ONE ever comes rushing into my office declaring they have suddenly decided to work on something from 40 years ago. It just doesn’t happen. I’m not the therapist to take you back to childhood either unless you absolutely demand we do that however I will still be questioning as to WHY. You’re coming in because something is all jacked up and you need to yell it out, bitch about it, yell about it some more and after the first session after you and I are done assessing each other, we will begin.

Unless you are a mime, I am assuming you might be talking to me.

How long will it take?

Forever! I’m kidding.

It is up to you and your goals and why you are sitting in my office in the first place.

I want to get the most out of therapy. What can I do to help?

 I hate homework. I am not a fan of giving “homework” and I never have been. I will give suggestions, tools, random ideas, and other things and it is totally up to you to utilize these suggestions. I do know, the more likely you utilize these suggestions the quicker you can get done seeing me. But, if you are dragging your feet and not utilizing any suggestions or tools, why waste both of our time? Just stop attending therapy. Don’t waste my time or your time. We have things we gotta do and ALL of my clients work their asses off because they trust me and they see results quickly.

My partner and I are having problems. Should we be in individual counseling or come together?

How about we talk about this in person? Sounds like a great idea to me!