The initial assessment is 60 minutes, which focuses on gathering both present symptoms as well as historical and current information, allowing for an in-depth understanding of what has and continues to contribute to the client’s current functioning.

Ongoing sessions thereafter are 50 minutes in length. Talk therapy consists of the client experiencing opportunity to share thoughts, feelings, ideas and concerns in a way that feels emotionally safe and constructive to them. The therapist will take time to ask questions, offer insight and create opportunities for clients to make connections that help to inform or enhance understanding of themselves, others and their relationships.

During couples and family therapy sessions, the therapist will work to facilitate balanced, constructive and meaningful dialogue, where every party feels seen, heard and accepted.

Therapy can provide a space to explore and discover yourself while feeling supported, understood and heard without judgement. Therapy can offer opportunity to talk to a professional with skills in problem solving and conflict resolution. A therapist can help individuals identify goals, obtaining a better understanding of yourself, your goals and values. Together we can work to develop skills to enhance relationships, learn new ways to cope with stress or anxiety, manage anger, grief, overwhelm or other emotionally trying experiences. Therapy can lend itself to establishing improved communication and enhance listening skills. This can contribute to greater satisfaction overall, with support in changing old behavior patterns to developing new healthy ones. This process overall can contribute to a boost in self-esteem, self-worth and self-confidence.

There’re is no real set time expected for therapy. The length of therapy is truly dependent upon the complexity of presenting problems and symptoms, as well as the identified goals for treatment. Additionally, the commitment and investment by the client can significantly impact both the length and trajectory of treatment. Some individuals find their needs are met after a few sessions, while others may continue attending therapy for months or years at a time. Clients may also find it helpful to take a pause when feeling increasingly stable, inevitably returning for ongoing support as needed. As part of my collaborative approach, this is something I will always discuss with you to ensure your vision for progress and how you define success is aligned.

Long term stabilization develops from understanding, active and intentional efforts towards change. Medication alone cannot resolve emotional issues or the pain experienced from them. However, there is strong evidence of success when an integrative and holistic approach is taken. While medication can address physical symptoms, therapy works to uncover the cause of distress and unhealthy behavioral patterns. Consultation with your medical doctor is encouraged to determine what approach may be most appropriate for you. Sometimes, a combination of therapy and medication is the best strategy.

Confidentiality is one of the most important components between a client and therapist. My initial goal in therapy is to create a safe and trusting space, where one feels comfortable sharing highly sensitive, important and personal information. I will provide a written copy of my confidential disclosure agreement, referred to as “Informed Consent,” and you can expect that what you discuss in session will not be shared with anyone.

Of note, with your permission and a signed release of information, I am happy to coordinate care with identified health care members (e.g. Primary Care Physician, Psychiatrist, Attorney, etc), for the purpose of your care and overall treatment.

Additionally, Oregon state law and professional ethics require therapists to maintain confidentiality with the exception of the following circumstances:

* Suspected past or present abuse or neglect of children, adults, and elders, with expectation to notifiy authorities including Child Protection and law enforcement, based on information provided by the client or collateral sources.

* If the therapist has reason to suspect the client is seriously in danger of harming him/herself or has threatened to harm another person.