What can I expect from a session with you?
At first we meet one another. It is one of the only sessions where I will be writing as you speak. It is a time to get to know you and gather the foundation of all your details; names, dates, medications, prior treatment, all the things any kind of health care practitioner would ask in the first meeting. Once this is established, we discuss a general outline of what I see as your plans and goals with our time together and you are asked to correct me and change any misunderstandings I might have gained from our talk. Then we schedule another appointment to begin the work.
How long are sessions? Why are they so long/short?
Sessions are generally 45-50 minutes. Longer sessions of 90 minutes are usually used for family sessions where many people are present and there are a lot more perspectives and ideas to consider. Typically the 50 minute time frame is effective for couples but some prefer the longer sessions. Generally the time is used to catch up on the week, go over assignments or experiments you are trying at home, go over any questions and continue to work towards the goals.
When will I know I no longer need therapy?
This may seem like a poor question but it is not. Many people think they come to therapy, work through the problem they brought in and then they are done. This is not usually what happens at all. Typically what the person brought into therapy as the problem was not really the problem at all but a symptom of something else. For instance, many couples come to treatment when someone has an affair and they see the affair as the problem. The affair brought their problem to crisis but the three years of no talking, frustration, and arguments which were left raw and unresolved are the real problems. Once these things are apparent and are resolved it seems the person is no longer in crisis so he or she may want to leave therapy. This may or may not be the right time. All cases are individualized with each person but it is always your right to end therapy at any time.
What if I just don’t want to see you as a therapist anymore?
At any time a person can terminate therapy. If you do feel I am not the right fit, I would ask that you discuss it with me and not just walk away. Sometimes perceptions are clouded, it is getting too difficult or emotional, or it could be a simple misunderstanding. Sometimes it is simply a personality difference that cannot be worked through. No matter what the reason, I will respect and honor your decision. If I can help you find someone to fit you better I am also more than willing to help you continue your journey.
Are you a doctor? What do I call you? What is the difference?
I have a Ph.D., so I am a doctor and my doctorate is in clinical sexology, making me a sexologist. I am not a medical doctor (MD). I also have a master’s degree in marriage & family therapy, I have completed an internship under supervision and graduated. You can simply call me Rob. My practice is dedicated to psychotherapy, or talk therapy only. The differences with the professionals listed below are generally stated only.
I do NOT hold any of the following designations:
- Psychiatrist: Medical doctor (MD) who prescribes medication, does limited or no talk therapy, and is seen to monitor medications
- Psychologists: Ph.D./Psy.D./Ed.D. who are clinically trained, often do advanced level testing, psychotherapy, and all forms of counseling, not all Ph.D. are psychologists
- LCSWs are licensed social workers