Common Questions

Is therapy right for me?

There are many reasons why people seek counseling and this is an individual choice. Sometimes it is to deal with long-standing psychological issues. Other times it is in response to unexpected life changes such as a divorce or work transition. Many seek the advice of counsel as they pursue their own personal exploration and growth. Working with a therapist can help provide insight, support, and new strategies for all types of life challenges. Therapy can help address many types of issues including depression, anxiety, conflict, grief, stress management, and general life transitions. Therapy is right for anyone who is interested in getting the most out of their life by taking responsibility, creating greater self-awareness, and taking ownership of one's life and choices.


Do I really need a therapist? I can usually handle my problems.

We all go through challenging life situations. While you may have successfully navigated through other difficulties you've faced, there's nothing wrong with seeking an objective point of view in addition to extra support when you need it. In fact, counseling is for people who have enough self-awareness to realize they need a helping hand. You are taking responsibility by accepting where you are in life and making a commitment to change the situation by seeking counsel. Counseling gives you the tools you need to avoid triggers, re-direct damaging patterns, and overcome whatever challenges you face.


How can therapy help me?

Therapy helps to uncover patterns that may or may not be conducive to where you want to be in life. It helps you understand the past in order to create a better future.

What is counseling like?

Every session is unique and caters to each individual and their specific goals. It is standard to discuss the primary issues and concerns in your life during counseling sessions. It is common to schedule a series of weekly sessions. Each session lasts approximately fifty minutes. Counseling can be short-term, focusing on a specific issue, or long-term, addressing more complex issues or ongoing personal growth. There may be times when you are asked to take certain actions outside of the sessions, such as reading a relevant book or keeping records to track certain behaviors. It is important to process what has been discussed and integrate it into your life between sessions. You must be an active participant both during and between the sessions for counseling to be the most effective. People seeking psychotherapy must be willing to take responsibility for their actions, work towards self-change, and create greater awareness in their lives. Here are some things you can expect from my services:

  • Compassion, respect, and understanding
  • Empathy towards your situations
  • A simple approach for complicated issues
  • Real strategies for enacting positive change
  • Effective and proven techniques
  • Practical guidance


Is medication a substitute for Psychotherapy?

In some cases a combination of medication and counseling is the right course of action. Working with your medical doctor you can determine what is best for you. It is well established that the long-term solution to mental and emotional problems cannot be solved solely by medication. Instead of just treating the symptom, counseling addresses the cause of our distress and the behavior patterns that curb our progress.


Do you accept insurance? - NO I DO NOT ACCEPT ANY TYPE OF INSURANCE.


Is Psychotherapy confidential?

In general, the law protects the confidentiality of all communications between a client and psychotherapist. No information is disclosed without prior written permission from the client.
However, there are some exceptions required by law. Exceptions include:

  • Suspected child abuse or dependant adult or elder abuse. The counselor is required to report this to the appropriate authorities immediately.
  • If a client is threatening serious bodily harm to another person, the counselor is required to notify the police.
  • If a client intends to harm himself or herself the counselor will make every effort to work with the individual to ensure their safety. However, if an individual does not cooperate, additional measures may need to be taken.

Aaron Tyrone Williams, MS, LMFT/Life Coach