The first step in any new direction can be the most difficult
to take. Congratulations, you have made the first big step!
Now, here are some suggestions to keep in mind with
regard to getting the most out of therapy:
My Best Results -
Over the past
two decades I have done therapy with people from all walks of life, adults to children, and all sorts of issues. I have learned
a few things along the way.
Depending on the problems being addressed, therapy can be brief, or may take up to
a year or more. On average, effective therapy happens in 8 to 15 sessions over the course of three to six months.
Without a doubt, I can say that the best results are experienced when appointments are kept on a regular basis,
and when the goals are clearly stated.
Realistic Expectations
-
Here's a sure fire way to become frustrated and quit therapy:
1) Expect that each session is
going to yield good feelings.
2) Expect
that each session will produce fantastic insights.
3) Expect that in each session you get all of your money’s worth.
Here's a practical and realistic approach:
1) Expect therapy to be an experience in which some sessions will end in good feelings, and others will end with painful feelings
to learn from.
2) Expect that some sessions
produce insights, and others may produce temporary puzzlement.
3) Figure out for yourself how much you can afford to spend on your mental health, budget that per month, and then forget
about it, so that you can focus on the therapy and not the dollar.
Good Planning -
I am a big believer in the idea that we can only get to a destination that has been determined. The most effective way that
you can achieve goals in therapy is to clearly identify them. I have the most success with my clients who set clear goals
with me.
This worksheet can give you some ideas on how to do this.
Notification -
I know how busy things can get, so I would be glad to notify you of your upcoming appointment by emailing
you. Let me know if you are interested in a reminder.
No show - late
cancellations -
Charles does
follow an office policy regarding cancellations. In the case of a no show, or when 24 hour notice was not given please be
prepared to pay the fee of $30 while on the phone when calling to reschedule a session.
Please do not put the secretary in the uncomfortable position of having to
ask for the payment, let her know that you are ready to make the payment and do so at that time.
A commitment in scheduling an appointment is make to you and it is expected that you make that
same commitment.
Take our survey-
Please
take a minute to fill out the
Client Survey. We appreciate your feedback!
