What is Therapy?
There is more to counseling or psychotherapy than most understand. Counseling is sometimes referred to as "talk" therapy. Someone might think "How will talking to someone about my problems help me?" There is much more going on in a therapy session than just talking. Individuals are assisted in making significant changes in their lives and their relationships. These changes can improve their ability to cope with difficulties and problems in their lives.

The therapeutic process begins in the first session as the therapist listens as the client explains the situations, feelings, thoughts, and behaviors that may be part of the problem. The therapist can assist the client in identifying beliefs, experiences, or emotions that may be contributing to the difficulty. The problem can be unresolved events and feelings from the past, difficulties with current issues in life, or worries and concerns about the future. The therapist provides an unbiased perspective and works collaboratively with the client to reach the desired goal. Therapy can be viewed as a shared venture of self-exploration. The therapist also helps the client identify his/her own unique qualities and characteristics that can facilitate resolution and change.