Why do people choose to enter into therapy?

People enter into therapy for a variety of reasons. Some are faced with sudden and unexpected life changes which makes them feel 'off-kilter'. These experiences can stress one's ability to cope, causing individuals to become overwhelmed with guilt, shame, self-doubt, anxiety, or despair. Input from an unbiased therapist can allow clients to explore not only what occurred, but how they were then impacted by this change. Oftentimes people find themselves caught up in the process of self-exploration and a quest for personal growth. Therapy can provide the necessary support required for clients as they learn to cope better and to find new solutions for the problems which might be causing them to struggle with depression, anxiety, lack of confidence, relationship difficulties, unresolved childhood issues, bereavement, spiritual conflicts, and stress management. Those who choose to enter into therapy are usually willing to take responsibility for each of their beliefs and behaviors, even when doing so might cause them discomfort. These individuals usually are seeking a more fulfilling life and are willing to work towards making this happen.

Oftentimes parents find themselves bringing their children and/or teenagers to therapy for a variety of issues. Perhaps the children/teenagers are struggling with depression, anxiety, fears, nightmares, problems in school, or at home with discipline issues. Oftentimes the parents realize that they are struggling in how best to help their children and/or teenagers. Oftentimes a few sessions in Emotion Coaching can be of help to parents as they learn how best to communicate with their children, while lessening the level of conflict in the home.

What might I expect from a 'typical' therapy session?

There is no 'typical' therapy session, however clients come to therapy with a willingness to explore their life (both past and present, when necessary). Clients usually speak of the concerns and issues facing them daily, but sometimes choose to take a look at other factors facing them in their life, including those which are of an integenerational pattern. The client should not worry as to what they 'need' to talk about during therapy, as it is my job to guide you along your journey. A clinical hour session lasts 50 minutes, but some people request longer sessions. Usually clients beginning in therapy prefer weekly sessions, however some individuals need and request more frequent sessions in times of crisis or extreme distress, while others request less frequent visits. I might ask my clients to focus upon topics which we have disussed between sessions. Or I might ask my clients to complete other tasks (i.e. reading a book or handout, keeping a journal, or completing an assessment or worksheet). For therapy to "work", you must be an active participant - both in and outside of the therapy room.

When children come to therapy, Play Therapy is used. This technique works best as 'play' is the way that children express their emotions. As the therapist plays alongside of the child, or together while playing a game or drawing, the child naturally relaxes and begins to share what is really on their minds. This is a less-frightening way for the child to say what is really on their mind and in their heart.

What can I hope to gain from entering into therapy?

The benefits of therapy can be immeasurable. Oftentimes just knowing that another person cares and understands can be helpful in and of itself. Having the knowledge, insight, and perspective of another can be beneficial, as you and the therapist work together to resolve life's challenges. Therapy can be quite beneficial in helping individuals as they strive towards personal growth, meeting life goals and challenges, improving their relationships, and addressing and resolving family conflict. It can help to lessen stress, depression, anxiety and to improve one's ability to cope. Therapy can help those seeking relief from the emotional pain of their past. Over time, it can help to lessen the impact of intrusive thoughts, nighmares, panic attacks or other unhealthy and unwanted side effects. Therapy can help people in becoming 'unstuck' from harmful thought processes, or from continuiing in unhealthy interactions with others. Therapy can help with the improvement of communication skills, in discovering new ways of problem-solving, in becoming more assertive and less aggressive, in gaining a higher level of self-confidence and in improving your self-esteem.

The benefits obtained from therapy depend much upon how much time and energy the client is willing to invest in their own growth and healing. Alone, we at Emotional Journey can not make your desired changes happen. But working together, we can go far in achieving your goals. To make gains in therapy, you do not need to first know 'which way to go' on your journey; we will help to show you the way.

What if I don't know what my goals are for therapy?

During the first few sessions of therapy, we will work together to discover which goals might be best to begin work upon. These goals may change over time and usually do as therapy progresses. However, it is best not to worry about this. Just trust that together, we will find the best route for your own personal journey.

Is therapy confidential?

Yes, except in certain circumstances. In general, Kansas law protects the confidentiality of all communications between a client and a psychotherapist. Information is not disclosed without written permission. However, there are a number of exceptions to this rule. Exceptions include:

• Suspected abuse of a child or dependant (including handicapped) adult or elder abuse. In those situations, we are required by law to report this to the appropriate authorities immediately.

• If a client is threatening with suicidal or homicidal intent, or serious bodily harm to himself/herself or to another person/s, we must make a report to the proper authorities. Having said that, we will truly make every effort possible to enlist the cooperation of our client in insuring their own safety and the safety of others. But if they do not cooperate, further measures may be taken without their permission in order to ensure their safety.

• If records are subpoenaed by a court of law. The therapist must provide the client's records to the court.

What if I don't like my therapist or feel that they have goals other than I think best?

You are always free to negotiate and renegotiate your goals for therapy. If ever you feel that your therapist here at Emotional Journey is 'off on the wrong track', please let us know. We can discuss our differences of opinion and renegotiate a change in treatment, if necessary. If you still do not feel comfortable with your therapist or with their style of therapy, please make us aware of the situation. If after discussing the matter, the issue is still left unresolved, we will be most happy to refer you to a therapist which might be a 'better fit'.