Question 1

How does therapy work?

Accepted Answer

Therapy is a unique and special space where you can speak about your  problems and be heard without judgment. Through your relationship with the  therapist, you will work together to unpack what is feeling overwhelming, and  build skills to better handle these problems.

Question 2

What can I expect in the first few sessions?

Accepted Answer

The first few sessions are when you begin to share your store, identify strengths and areas for growth, create goals, and how we can get there. We will also get to know each other and build our own foundation.

Question 3

How long will it take?

Accepted Answer

It takes time to get to the root of who you are, where you would like to grow, and build our own relationship. Therapy can last anywhere from a few months to years. You and your therapist will continue to check in to see how you feel you have progressed.

Question 4

What is the difference between LMSW, LCSW, and LCSW-R?

Accepted Answer

All of these titles are social workers and can provide psychotherapy. The difference is the licensing. LMSW, licensed master in social worker, may provide psychotherapy with the supervision of a LCSW, licensed psychologist, or psychiatrist. LCSW, or licensed clinical social worker, can provide psychotherapy without supervision. LCSW-R is the highest level of licensure for a social worker.

Question 5

What is the difference between a psychologist and a psychiatrist?

Accepted Answer

While both fields are trained to support clients in their mental health, their type of training and specialization are different. A psychiatrist is a medical doctor and can prescribe medications. Psychologists typically hold doctorate degrees, not medical degrees, and do not prescribe medications. While some psychiatrists offer psychotherapy, psychologists specialize in working through issues in sessions as opposed to prescribing medications for symptom relief.

Question 6

What are values?

Accepted Answer

Values refer to the different activities that give our lives meaning. They guide us in making choices based on the direction in which we want our lives to go.

Question 7

What if I'm not sure what my goals are?

Accepted Answer

That’s okay. In our sessions, we will work towards exploring where you would like your life to go, and how defining goals can help you get there.

Question 8

Isn't therapy just venting?

Accepted Answer

While venting can be a part of therapy in that it is a safe place to talk about what’s going on in your life, that is just one out of the many pieces of therapy.  Therapy is about being heard, understood, connecting, and welcomed into finding a deeper meaning.

Question 9

What does confidentiality and limits of confidentiality mean?

Accepted Answer

Confidentiality means that what is said between you and your therapist stays between you and your therapist. However, there are limits to that confidentiality, such as when there is suspicion of child or elder abuse, and a threat to harm of oneself or someone else.

Question 10

What does it mean if a therapist has a limited permit?

Accepted Answer

In New York, a limited permit allows for a therapist who is applying for licensure to practice under the supervision of a qualified and licensed clinician while they are working towards the required examination and experience components.

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