Counseling FAQ's - John Eckenwiler
What can I expect from the first session?
Statistics show that a high percentage of folks benefit from only one session. While this can't be guaranteed, suggestions are usually made by the end of the first session after a rapid but thorough initial assessment. Assessment is made in every session as new information presents itself. After being given opportunity to share information with your therapist, concrete treatment goals are discussed. The process is an active one in which you will be a key participant in the direction taken. Homework assignments are given.
The first session will also include a written financial understanding, information questionnaires and a "disclosure statement", which tells you about your rights as a client, such as confidentiality.
How long does therapy usually last?
Unlike 25 years ago when therapy sometimes lasted for years, the average number of sessions tends to be more like 6-8 over a period of usually less than six months. It is not uncommon at all to take a break from sessions for awhile, then resume for a few sessions. This tends to be less intrusive, more natural and quite effective.
What are your hours?
Appointments are available Monday through Thursday. Morning and early evening appointments are normally available (hours may vary during summer months) in addition to daytime slots. Sessions are scheduled on the hour and are 45 minutes in length.
What if I'm not ready for lots of big changes?
Your readiness to move closer to achieving your goals and the changes required for that is very important to me. I often tell clients to "go slow" because going too fast can actually add to the stress sometimes. If sessions are proceeding too fast or pushing too hard, simply let me know and we will make adjustments.
How can I be sure the therapist I choose will understand me?
Ultimately, the only way to be sure is to give it a try. I try to teach and model active listening, in which I check with whomever is speaking to be sure my understanding is correct. My experience has been that as long as this is happening, understanding does too. If at any time you are not feeling understood or accepted, I really do want you to tell me, since that is of utmost importance to me.
Am I going to be blamed for problems in my life?
Sure, it's possible that you might be responsible for bringing on problems in your life, but blaming never solves anything. You deserve to be accepted and respected no matter what your issues are. As for relationship problems, they are just that. Relationship problems that are shared by everyone involved.
It's someone else's idea for me to come in, so why should I?
Usually if someone else is pressuring you to come in, it's because he or she is also feeling some stress over the issue(s) in question. If nothing else, that makes it a relationship problem that could use some help. In that case, everyone involved will be guided to address the issue with each other in a more productive way.
I've had counseling before and it didn't help, so why would this be any different?
If it did not help before, it is very important to try to determine the reason. Perhaps the therapist missed something important, maybe there was a personality clash, or you simply weren't ready. Rather than minimizing its importance, the first session will devote some time to this question. Your expectations for therapy will be discussed so that we can maximize every chance of success.
I feel too overwhelmed for anyone to help me, so why bother?
If you're asking this question, you have most certainly lost perspective and are having trouble thinking things through clearly. Without help in sorting out your thoughts, things will likely get worse before they get better. There are typically many treatment options that can be considered when you have reached this point. It would be most helpful to come in and hear about them.