FAQ's

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT THERAPY

Sue Shepard MFT - FAQ's
Why do people seek therapy?

People come into therapy for many reasons. Some need to respond to unexpected changes in their lives, while others seek self-exploration and personal growth. When coping skills are overwhelmed by guilt, doubt, anxiety, fear, or despair, therapy can help. Therapy can provide support, problem-solving skills, conflict resolution, and enhanced coping for issues such as depression, anxiety, lack of confidence, relationship issues, grief and loss, unresolved childhood issues, spiritual conflicts, stress management, body image issues, and creative blocks. People seeking psychotherapy are willing to take responsibility for their actions, work towards self-change and create greater awareness in their lives.

What can I expect in a counseling session?
During sessions you are expected to talk about the primary concerns and issues in your life. A session lasts 50 minutes, but some people request longer sessions. Usually weekly sessions are best. Some people who are in crisis or extreme distress need more than one session per week, at least until the crisis passes. During the time between sessions it is beneficial to think about and process what was discussed. At times, you may be asked to take certain actions outside of the counseling sessions, such as reading a relevant book or keeping a journal. For therapy to "work," you must be an active participant, both in and outside of the counseling sessions.

What benefits can I expect from working with a therapist?
A number of benefits are available from actively participating in counseling. 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:

*  Attaining a better understanding of yourself and your personal goals and values
Developing skills for improving your relationships
Discovering a better understanding of the issues or concerns that led you to seek therapy and developing new ways to either resolve them or make peace with them
Finding new ways to cope with stress and anxiety
Managing anger, depression, and other emotional pressures
Improving communications skills - learning how to better listen to others, and to communicate in a way where you will be heard
Getting "unstuck" from unhealthy patterns - breaking old behaviors and developing new coping strategies
*  Disco
vering new ways to solve problems
Improving your self-esteem and boosting self-confidence
Creating balance in both personal and professional pursuits
Gaining motivation and momentum to bridge the gap from where you are to where you want to be

View my Services and Specialties

Is therapy confidential?
In general, the law protects the confidentiality of all communications between a client and a psychotherapist. Information is not disclosed without written permission. However, there are number of exceptions to this rule. Exceptions include:

Suspected child abuse or dependent adult or elder abuse. The therapist is required by law to report this to the appropriate authorities immediately.

If a client is threatening serious bodily harm to another person/s. The therapist must notify the police and inform the intended victim.

If a client intends to harm himself or herself. The therapist will make every effort to enlist their cooperation in insuring their safety. If they do not cooperate, further measures may be taken without their permission in order to ensure their safety.

LOCATION

2900 Bristol St., G-201, Costa Mesa, CA

AVAILABILITY

Call daily from 9AM to 9PM for appointment

Appointments during hours listed below:

Monday:

4:00 pm-9:00 pm

Tuesday:

4:00 pm-9:00 pm

Wednesday:

4:00 pm-9:00 pm

Thursday:

4:00 pm-9:00 pm

Friday:

Closed

Saturday:

Closed

Sunday:

Closed

CONTACT ME

Call me now at (714) 751-0888