Center for Psychodynamic Psychotherapy

What is the first session like?

The first session will take approximately 60 minutes. In the initial consultation, we will discuss what brings you to therapy as well as issues of confidentiality and fees. We will then explore the details surrounding your concerns which may involve some history of your presenting problem such as family history, past traumas, or previous relationships. In the end, you are welcome to discuss whatever you choose to discuss as we do not follow a specific protocol for initial sessions. We will discuss only what you are comfortable sharing. You need only bring a curious mind.

 

How long does therapy take?

This is a great question, and unfortunately, there is no concrete answer. Each person is very different. Sometimes, individuals find relief very quickly from their concerns - a matter of a few weeks to a few months. Other times, individuals can stay in therapy for a number of years, even after having resolved many of their initial concerns. It really depends upon the unique circumstances of each person's life and personality.

 

How often do I need to come to therapy?

This depends upon the person, but we suggest individuals come once per week for a 60 minute session. Sometimes, patients will come 2-3 times per week, depending upon their circumstances. This is not uncommon, especially in the midst of acute crises or for those who are seeking to do "deep analysis."

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Does psychotherapy involve talking about dreams?

Sometimes, yes. This also depends upon the person and their willingness to explore them. We work in a comprehensive, thoughtful, and very down-to-earth perspective regarding exploration of one's dream life. Although this can sound like quite a "hokey" process to some, it is actually quite helpful in terms of accessing unconscious or repressed emotions as well as opening up possibilities for one's future psychological direction.

 

If I don't want to talk about something, do I have to?

We will never make you discuss anything that you are uncomfortable or unwilling to discuss. We will always respect your boundaries and privacy until you are interested in sharing. Sometimes if one is uncomfortable sharing or discussing a particular issue, however, we will explore the ways in which you avoid such discussion, for example, the defensive patterns in your personality such as avoidance, withdrawal, dissociation, or any other kind of defenses. This can be very helpful in terms of understanding one's methods for coping with tension or anxiety.

 

Can I ask questions about the therapist?

Yes! We are more than willing to answer most questions. However, many times there is a question behind a question - especially in therapy - so many times we will discuss both of these questions: the literal one and the conscious/unconscious one. This is a common theme throughout therapy that you will find - exploration that involves two dimensions of thought, both conscious and unconscious.