What to expect from psychotherapy

If you've never gone to a psychologist before, it can be an intimidating experience at first. Don't worry, you won't be lying on a couch. 

In our first session I'll be asking you about your life, what you do, who are your important people, and what your reason is for coming. I'll be taking a lot of notes on the first day (to help my memory!) We'll settle on payment and insurance information. We will meet for just under an hour in a comfortable setting. I hope that even in your first meeting you can feel some relief from the stress that brought you to me.  

Many people are embarassed at having problems. Let's be real; we all have had problems at some point in life. The advantage of discussing them with a psychologist is that an objective person can help you see things a different way. We have training in understanding thoughts, behavior, and relationships, as well as clinical problems such as anxiety, depression, and other psychological issues. Psychologists know effective treatments for these problems. If you are willing to take that journey, I am willing to walk with you.

I teach psychology part-time at Queensborough Community College and am the author of a book, A Murder Before Eden, about the murder of my great-grandfather. I am involved in community groups and find that these activities give me that "work-life balance" we always hear about. What works for you?