Do you have a difficult time winding down at the end of the day? What is the record like that keeps playing in your head? Is spending time alone uncomfortable? Has your life been altered by something beyond your control?
Psychotherapy is one of the most effective and efficient ways to facilitate personal growth and sustainable life changes. Some reasons you may seek individual therapy may include feelings of being hopeless, lack of motivation or ability to change, constant worry, crisis/ transition, depression, anxiety, recent divorce, past trauma, family conflicts and anger. And while we all face challenges in life, identifying where we are getting stuck is important in understanding how we organize our inner world: the place where we experience doubt, fear, guilt, shame, anxiety, grief, anger, and hopelessness.
Unlike so many external events, our inner worlds can be explored, understood, and managed. By taking the time to understand our thoughts, feelings, and choices, we may begin to quiet the past and change how we address the future. Psychotherapy can be a challenging process at times, but in return, a sense of energy and vitality occurs when we are in harmony with our values, purpose, and actions. Psychotherapy offers the possibility of real and lasting change, a reduction in suffering, and an increase in the understanding of life challenges. Therapy is a space just for you, so it is kind of one-sided. You don’t need to worry about what your therapist feels or thinks, so you can focus on yourself and what you need, which can be both strange and liberating.
Results aren’t always quick in therapy. Change takes time, but having a space for you can be a huge relief. Everyone’s process looks different. Don’t get discouraged if things aren’t changing right away.
How long does therapy take?
The length of time someone is in psychotherapy depends on many factors. These include the reason for seeking therapy, motivation to change, and your unique needs.
I usually suggest new clients meet with me weekly and then gradually to every 2 weeks. Just as in any relationship, fit is important. These initial meetings are an opportunity for you to see if we feel like a good fit and for me to get a sense of whether or not I am able to help with what brings you in.
Sometimes people come into therapy for a specific symptom, like depression due to a short-term circumstance, and choose to conclude treatment when that symptom is resolved. Other times people seek support to change longer term patterns in troubling feelings, relationships, and behaviours. Often, people find renewed clarity and purpose as they continue in therapy. New goals emerge, the work deepens, and even more fulfilling and lasting changes can be accomplished.
Are you ready to find your peace, your happiness and your hope?
–Vivian Noehring
