Hello and welcome to DSW Diversity Consulting! If you have landed here, you're probably considering beginning psychotherapy to work on issues that have arisen in your life. I'm here to help! First things first - I'd like you to really think about the question above: "How do you want to feel?" Next, contrast that with how you've actually been feeling. Are they in line with one another? If they are, then that's fantastic. If not, it's okay. Through our time together, we can work on bringing more balance to the areas that seem a little out of sync.

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I love helping people to identify the maladaptive patterns in their lives that prevent them from moving forward and living the lives they envisioned. The work doesn't stop there. In therapy, we will work together to challenge those patterns and begin to replace them with actions and new ways of thinking that will help you to live a healthier, happier, more meaningful life.

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I often get questions from people about how therapy works. I'll answer a few of those below:

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Why Should I Go to Therapy?

Therapy can be useful in providing clarity to areas in your life in which you feel "stuck." Many times, it's helpful to have a neutral person to speak with in a nonjudgmental and accepting environment.

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Can't I Just Talk to My Friends? What's the Difference?

Psychologists and therapists are highly trained professionals who have obtained the skills to understand human behavior and emotions. A big difference between therapy and a friendship is that the therapy relationship is focused entirely on you. This is helpful in that it allows us to devote our entire time to working through the issues that brought you in.

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Can't I Do the Same Thing with Medication?

Research shows that the most effective treatment is a combination of therapy and medication. Medication alone often will not get to the root of the problem. Therapy is a crucial component in making lasting change.

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Will I Be Required to Take Medication?

No. The decision to take medication is yours alone and no one can make you take anything. We will work together to determine whether medication is right for you and if you decide it is, then I will make a referral to a trusted psychiatrist.

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What are Sessions Like?

Your initial session will last for up to 90 minutes and will involve a comprehensive intake interview in which I will gather all the important information to gain a better understanding of who you are. You will have the opportunity to ask questions. Follow up sessions last for 50 minutes and will involve us talking and taking a "deep dive" into the issues that are bothering you. At times, I may give you homework to complete between sessions which usually involve taking notice of things that are happening in your life. Most therapy change takes place outside of the therapy office and the homework is integral in facilitating this. 

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Does Going to Therapy Mean That I Am Weak?

Absolutely not. Period. It takes an immense amount of courage and strength to be willing to do the difficult work that therapy requires. There is no greater strength than being willing to make yourself vulnerable in order to make changes that could benefit not just yourself, but your family as well.

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How Long Will I Need to Be in Therapy?

This depends on the person and the issue we're working on. Some therapy is very short-term in nature and will only need a few sessions for the client to feel some relief. Other times, the issues go a lot deeper and take more time. You and I will work together to determine the best course of treatment and we'll reevaluate your needs on a regular basis. Regardless of whether we're doing short- or long-term therapy, there is an end point and we'll discuss when that might be for you.

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