your questions, answered.

Do I want online or in-person therapy sessions?

Technology has opened so many doors for us and made many things much more convenient, including online therapy.

Benefits of online therapy:

• no drive time

• the comfort of your own home

• more flexibility with scheduling

All you need is a phone, tablet, or computer with data or a good Wi-Fi connection. If technology fails at the moment, talking on the phone is a good backup.

In-person therapy still exists. It is more difficult to find, but it’s out there.

Benefits of face-face therapy:

• get out of the house

• more privacy in the office

• human interaction

• provides neutrality for couples

Can I fire my therapist?

Finding the therapist that is right for you isn’t always easy. It is important to know that you are the customer, the client. You don’t need to keep going to a therapist that isn’t the right fit. People often feel that they fail at therapy because they didn’t get what they wanted out of it.

Most likely they just didn’t have the right therapist for them. You need to feel comfortable sharing. Getting to the heart of things that are personal and often intimate requires trust. Make sure you trust your therapist or find a new one.

Do I have to go every week?

This is something to discuss with your therapist, however, you know what you need and how often you need it. When dealing with trauma it is good to go more frequently to get to a point of resolve. If you are dealing with some heavy things and need the support, then weekly counseling, or more, may be right for you.

But money can be an obstacle for going more often. If you can only afford it once a month, then make the most out of it. Make sure you ask for homework to keep you engaged in your healing in between sessions. Ask if texting is available in-between sessions.

Is it okay that I just want to vent sometimes?

We all want to be heard. Sometimes we don’t want a fix, or a plan, or the answers, and that’s ok. Sometimes we just want someone to agree with us. A therapist's job is to be flexible, supportive, and understanding. Make sure you ask for what you need. If you just want to get something off your chest that is bothering you, say, “I just need to vent today.” It’s ok.