FAQs about Therapy & Counseling Services
I’ve never talked to anyone. I’m used to handling things on my own. Aren’t people who go to therapy weak?
Not at all. People who ask for help know when they need it and have the courage to reach out. Everyone needs help now and then. In our work together, I’ll help you explore and identify your strengths and how to implement them to reduce the influence of the problems you are facing.
What happens the first session?
The first session is called an intake session. An intake session in therapy is the initial meeting where a therapist gathers comprehensive information to understand your situation and plan effective treatment. It typically lasts up to 60 minutes and includes:
- History of Present Illness: Describing the problems that brought you to therapy and any contributing factors.
- Past Psychiatric History: Reviewing previous mental health experiences, treatments, and hospitalizations.
- Family History: Discussing mental and physical health issues in your family.
- Substance Use: Examining your history of alcohol and drug use.
- Medical History: Reviewing your physical health, including any past injuries or illnesses.
- Social History: Exploring your life circumstances, relationships, work, school, and cultural background.
The goal is to develop a clinical formulation and treatment recommendations, although diagnosis and assessment are often ongoing processes.
What’s the difference between talking to you or my best friend or family?
The difference is between someone who can do something, and someone who has the training and experience to do that same thing professionally. A mental health professional can help you approach your situation in a new way– teach you new skills, gain different perspectives, listen to you without judgment or expectations, and help you listen to yourself. Furthermore, counseling is completely confidential. You won’t have to worry about others “knowing my business.” Lastly, if your situation provokes a great deal of negative emotion, and you’ve been confiding in a friend or family member, there is the risk that once you are feeling better you could start avoiding that person so you aren’t reminded of this difficult time in your life.
Why shouldn’t I just take medication?
Medication can be effective but it alone cannot solve all issues. Sometimes medication is needed in conjunction with counseling. Our work together is designed to explore and unpack the problems you are experiencing and expand on your strengths that can help you accomplish your personal goals.
How does it work? What do I have to do in sessions?
Because each person has different issues and goals for counseling, it will be different depending on the individual. I tailor my therapeutic approach to your specific needs.
How long will it take?
Unfortunately, this is not possible to say in a general FAQs page. Everyone’s circumstances are unique to them and the length of time counseling can take to allow you to accomplish your goals depends on your desire for personal development, your commitment, and the factors that are driving you to seek counseling in the first place.
I want to get the most out of therapy. What can I do to help?
I am so glad you are dedicated to getting the most out of your sessions. Your active participation and dedication will be crucial to your success.
What are some of the services you provide for counseling or therapy?
- Anxiety therapy in Catonsville or virtual
- Depression therapy in Catonsville or virtual
- Grief therapy in Catonsville or virtual
- Teen therapy in Catonsville or virtual
- Young adult therapy in Catonsville or virtual
- Life transitions therapy in Catonsville or virtual
- Men’s issues therapy in Catonsville or virtual
- Perfectionism therapy in Catonsville or virtual
- Relationship issues therapy in Catonsville or virtual
- Highly sensitive people therapy in Catonsville or virtual
- LGBTQIA+ affirming therapy in Catonsville or virtual
- ADHD counseling in Catonsville or Virtual
- Telehealth therapy
- Counseling for trauma in Catonsville or virtual
- Women’s issues therapy in Catonsville or virtual
- Mental health services in Catonsville or virtual
Looking for therapy and counseling in Catonsville, MD? Get all your questions answered by Stride Forward Counseling. Call today to learn more and schedule an appointment.