Frequently Asked Questions
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Please feel free to call me with questions about psychotherapy services.
Marjorie W. Briand, MSW, LICSW (603) 742-0950 |
Q: What is psychotherapy?
A: Psychotherapy is the treatment of mental and emotional disorders through the use of psychological techniques designed to encourage communication of conflicts and insight into problems, with the goal being relief of symptoms, changes in behavior leading to improved social and vocational functioning, and personality growth. Q: How do I know if I need therapy? A: Therapy is different from talking with friends or family members about your concerns. A caring and well-trained professional can help you clearly define the problem and guide you in the healing process so you can move on and enjoy your life. Once we get to the bottom of what is troubling you, lasting solutions are possible. When a person is asking themselves this question, it is good indication that they are ready to make a change or at the least willing to consider making an improvement in some area of their lives. Therapy is very productive when a person realizes that personal difficulties are not going to change by repeating the usual methods. Q: What can I expect in the first session? A: You are guaranteed a warm welcome as we meet in person for the first time. It is normal to feel nervous, but once we get started, most people quickly feel more relaxed. I will ask you to describe the reasons you are seeking psychotherapy and the outcomes you would like to experience. By the end of the first session, I can give you a preliminary roadmap for how we will work together. We then both decide if we are well-matched and want to continue meeting. Q: What benefits can I expect from psychotherapy? A: A number of benefits are available from psychotherapy. Often it is helpful just to know that someone understands. Therapy can provide a fresh perspective on a difficult problem or point you in the direction of a solution. Many people find therapy to be a tremendous asset to managing personal growth, interpersonal relationships, family concerns, and the hassles of daily life. The benefits you obtain from therapy depend on how well you use the process and put into practice what you learn. Some of the benefits available from therapy include:
Q: How long does psychotherapy take? A: It depends on numerous factors. Unlike other health conditions, there is one procedure that can be done to you to fix your problems. Psychotherapy is a collaborative process between you and your therapist. Often people experience a sense that they are making progress more quickly than they had expected. There is also the realization that they are holding onto thoughts or feelings that need to be explored more thoroughly. This struggle of exploring interconnecting aspects of one's life story may proportionally increase time in therapy and personal growth. Q: How long are the sessions? A: Sessions are usually 50 - 60 minutes . Q: How do I choose a psychotherapist? A: There is no one way to find the right psychotherapist. The most common method is word of mouth. Friends, family, clergy, or other trusted individuals often are the best referral source because they know you and/or the therapist personally. While there is much research about the best type of therapy, the most consistent finding is this: the relationship between therapist and client is the most important factor in determining outcome. Finding someone that you can trust, feel will be hopeful, and have faith in you will enrich your experience. Phone a potential psychotherapist. Ask questions and see if he/she is the right fit for you. It is also important to ask if he/she can work with the particular problem that you want addressed, e.g., couples therapy, coping with depression, etc. I welcome such phone calls in my practice. Q: What if I am in a crisis or there is an emergency? A: Go to the nearest hospital emergency room or call 9-1-1 as soon as possible. Don’t wait. Get help immediately. Please call today with questions or to schedule an appointment Marjorie Briand, MSW, LICSW, CRC (603) 742-0950 |
