Since everyone’s situation and concerns are different, there is no set answer to this. Trying to improve upon or deciding whether or not to leave a relationship, grieving the death of a loved one, sorting out gender identity, learning coping skills for depression or anxiety, considering job changes, coming out as lesbian/gay/bisexual, healing from past trauma, and managing stress or health concerns, which are just a few of the challenges I help people with, are such different issues that each client’s treatment is individualized. Generally, clients set their therapy goals and decide when their goals are met. When people need help with setting goals or an objective opinion on where they are in their progress, I will help them sort through their concerns and questions.

Most people start noticing some benefits after the first couple of sessions because I am active and direct in giving feedback and suggesting new approaches or views of situations, which have been useful to other clients.

For some issues, people come for short-term counseling, such as 8-12 weeks. More substantial issues may involve 6-12 months of therapy. Some clients choose to come longer for various reasons and to do deeper work.

Initially, I suggest meeting once weekly for the first 2-3 weeks. This timing helps us get to know each other and build a level of comfort to move quickly into working on the client’s issues. If someone is in crisis, early or later on, we may meet 2-3 times a week. As people feel relief or progress, we agree to meet less often. For example, we may meet every other week for a few sessions, then once monthly for a few sessions and then discontinue meeting completely. I have a number of clients who choose to continue checking in with me with appointments every one, two or three months. Also, clients may return after months or years when a new life situation arises, such as having a child or changing a job.

Again, the suggested time-frame works for most people, but I will work with your schedule. Many people travel for work or taking vacations, so flexibility is necessary.

Typically appointments last 45 minutes. If someone is coming from a long distance or has an emergency, we may make special arrangements for a longer appointment.