FAQs
What should I expect from therapy and the process?
A typical therapy process involves weekly or every other week sessions. Goals are established at the start of the process and are revisited periodically to assess if they need to be adjusted. Because topics explored in therapy are often challenging, it is not unusual for difficult emotions to arise. That said, therapy also involves developing skills and capacity to manage challenging thoughts and feelings. Many clients notice a significant reduction in negative emotions and an increased sense of well-being.
How will I know if therapy is working?
As mentioned above, the therapeutic process includes exploring difficult topics and experiences, which might mean there is a period of time where clients feel worse before they feel better. It is not uncommon for that to happen, and it does not indicate that therapy is not working. When clients develop skills and alternative perspectives in therapy, they often notice that challenging thoughts and feelings start to soften and become more manageable, and the goals they set at the start of therapy begin to feel reachable.
What therapy styles and modalities does Rhonda use?
All clients are unique, and your therapy will be tailored to your needs. I typically use concepts and interventions from the following modalities: Internal Family Systems, Self-Compassion, Polyvagal-Informed Therapy, Person-Centered Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Relational Life Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy, and the Gottman Method.
How long are clients typically in therapy?
It is different for every client. Some clients attend therapy for a few months and see the type of progress they want and terminate at that point. Others decide to stay in the therapy process longer. It is always ultimately up to the client to determine if the process is helpful and if they have reached their goals.
What are things I can do outside of my therapy sessions to assist in my growth and healing?
A crucial part of the therapy process is being proactive outside of sessions. Being “proactive” can mean many different things. Some clients read additional books and resources about the topics being explored in therapy. Others develop self-care habits and behaviors outside of sessions that assist them in their growth. There are many ways that clients can support their own healing process, and an important aspect of our work together is determining what you can do in between sessions to help you meet your goals.
