FAQs

What is counseling?

Counseling is a method of treatment for addressing a person’s psychological, emotional, or behavioral problems. It involves developing a trusting, collaborative relationship with a licensed counselor. Your counselor will encourage you to freely express your thoughts and emotions, so you can gain the understanding necessary for change.

An effective professional counselor can help you:

  • Examine the problems contributing to emotional turmoil.
  • Identify goals and potential solutions.
  • Strengthen communication and coping skills.
  • Improve self-esteem.
  • Make positive behavior changes.

When should I seek counseling?

In each phase of life, there are new challenges to face – and most of them you can handle on your own. But sometimes, you find yourself in a situation that causes ongoing emotional distress and leaves you feeling overwhelmed. It’s during these times that you may benefit from the assistance of an experienced, trained professional.

Your counselor can help you find new ways to address troubling issues such as negative behavior patterns, relationships conflicts, loss of interest and enjoyment in life, or feeling like you are “lost.”  Working with your counselor can provide you the perspective you need to become the “new you.”

Who are professional counselors?

Licensed professional counselors provide quality mental health care to those in need. Professional counselors have a master’s or doctoral degree in counseling or a related field.  In order to be licensed, a counselor must complete many hours of counseling practice and coursework pertaining to human behavior and development, effective counseling strategies, and ethical practices.

Professional counselors adhere to a code of ethics that:
  • Protects the confidentiality of the client
  • Prohibits discrimination and promotes respect for diverse cultural backgrounds
  • Places the welfare of the client as a top priority

How long will counseling take?

People in counseling often report an enhanced sense of relief as quickly as the first or second session. Taking action to address a problem can have immediate benefits for your emotional well-being.

During the first few sessions, your counselor will discuss the recommended length of treatment and number of sessions that may be needed to achieve your goals.

As your therapy progresses, some sessions may be difficult, especially as you face your feelings. Over time, you can work through those emotions and gain satisfaction from seeing yourself change and grow.

Some clients make rapid progress, while for others, the change is more gradual. Whether you are in short-term or long-term therapy, there are benefits to be gained by staying with the work. The trusting relationship you develop with your counselor will let you examine your progress and your reactions to it.

Ideally, counseling ends when you feel less overwhelmed, and the situation that prompted your need for counseling becomes more manageable.

How frequent are the sessions?

Sessions may be scheduled weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly, depending on your needs. Together we will determine a schedule of appointments that works best for you.

Do you take insurance?

No, I do not take insurance, but I will provide you with the necessary information so that you can submit the insurance form to your provider.

Where are you located?

My office is in Maitland, but I service clients from the greater Orlando area.