Frequently Asked Questions
Do you only work with lesbian and bisexual women?
No, I work with people from all walks of life and every sexual orientation. Although my niche is working with the gay population, I believe all human beings, regardless of our sexual orientation, share a deep desire to connect with others as well as a strong need to be recognized and understood. I work from this belief.
Do you only work one on one with adults?
I have experience and enjoy working with individual adults, older adolescents, couples and groups. In addition to working with individuals, I also offer group therapy. I have one group for gay women in their 20's and late 30's and another group for gay women in their 40's and 60's.
What are the benefits of group therapy vs. individual therapy?
The advantages of being in group therapy is that each session is longer, 90 minutes vs. 50 minutes, and the cost per session is much more economical than individual work. Group work also addresses one's feelings of loneliness and isolation, mainly through hearing and relating to other group members.
Are you a life coach?
No, I am not a life coach. I am a Licensed Marriage Family Therapist. As a therapist, in addition to doing what a life coach does, I am also educated and trained to help you strengthen your confidence as well as enhance your interpersonal skills. My aim is to help you with your pressing concern(s), and then help you to increase your sense of well-being and reduce your sense of discomfort.
What if I want couples counseling, but my partner won't come?
Sometimes one partner is not as willing or ready to participate in counseling. However, it is often possible to improve the relationship with just one partner involved in counseling.
How long and how many times a week is a typical session?
Sessions are usually 50 minutes. Most clients are seen once or twice a week in the beginning, then, as time goes on, less frequently. The number of sessions depends on your current needs and budget.
How long will I be in counseling?
The length of time in counseling depends on the nature of the problem and your goals for counseling. You might have a very specific problem that can be resolved in a set course of counseling. For others, counseling is an on-going learning process and they choose to receive counseling for a longer period.
As a therapist, I am not legally allowed to prescribe medications. However, depending on your needs, it may be advisable to consult with a psychiatrist to determine whether medication is warranted. Typically, clients see someone under their health insurance coverage or I can refer you to a psychiatrist.
http://www.didihirsch.org/services/emergency/spc
Suicide Prevention Hotline. 24 hours crisis line.
http://www.teenlineonline.org
Confidential telephone helpline for teenaged callers.
http://www.ndvh.org/
National Domestic Violence Hotline. Confidential and anonymous.
http://www.rainn.org/
Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network Hotline. Provides confidential services and educate the public about sexual assault. 1-800-656-HOPE (4673)
http://www.lagaycenter.org/site/PageServer
Provides STD testing, low-fee mental health services, legal services and support to the LGBT community
http://www.apa.org/pi/lgbt/resources/parenting.aspx
American Psychological Associations website for LGBT mental health issues
http://www.twintowntreatmentcenters.com
Adult and adolescent alcohol and d
http://community.pflag.org
National organization for education and advocacy. Support for familiy members and friends of LGBT people