ABOUT PSYCHOTHERAPY

Choosing a Therapist

Types of Therapists

Risks and Benefits of Therapy

Process of Therapy

Confidentiality

Ending Therapy

Contact Dr. Nash

The process of psychotherapy

What happens in therapy?

During sessions you are expected to talk about your concerns and issues, and between sessions to think about what was discussed. At times, you may be asked to take certain actions outside of the therapy sessions, such as reading something or keeping records. For therapy to "work," you must be an active participant, both in and outside of the therapy sessions.

What is your style as a therapist?

As a therapist, I work collaboratively with you. I tend to be interactive-asking questions at times, providing feedback, or making suggestions. The first few sessions are devoted to evaluation and getting to know you. At the first session I will attempt to get a sense of the problem from your perspective, and by the end of that session, I will give you my initial comments, including what I am hearing as the problem or issue that brings you to therapy, what your goals are for therapy, and how I suggest we may achieve these goals. Periodically throughout our work together, we will refer back to these goals and our treatment plan to assess our progress. Therapy concludes when you feel that you have made satisfactory progress toward your therapy goals.

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

If you aren't sure what your goals are for therapy, our first task is to figure that out. It may take several sessions before our direction is clarified, and during the course of therapy, your goals may change. Some people don't like to establish goals, preferring a more spontaneous approach. Identifying a direction for therapy will help you get the most out of the experience.

How often are therapy sessions?

Usually weekly sessions are best. Some people who are in crisis or extreme distress need more than one session per week, at least until the crisis passes. Other people feel that they can only afford to come every other week. A session lasts 50 minutes, but some people request longer sessions. I will work with you to establish the frequency and length of sessions that can reasonably achieve your goals and meet your needs.

Dr. Joyce Nash, PhD    (650) 329-1000