Cunningham Counseling, LLC

Is therapy right for me?
Seeking out therapy is an individual choice. There are many reasons why people come to therapy. Sometimes it is to deal with long-standing relational issues, or problems with anxiety or depression. Other times it is in response to unexpected changes in one's life such as a divorce or work transition. Many seek counseling as they pursue their own personal exploration and growth.

How can therapy help me?
Many people find that counselors can be a tremendous asset to managing personal growth, interpersonal relationships, family concerns, marriage issues, and the hassles of daily life. Therapists can provide a fresh perspective on a difficult problem or point you in the direction of a solution. Some of the benefits available from therapy include:

• Attaining a better understanding of yourself, your goals and values
• Developing skills for improving your relationships
• Finding resolution to the issues or concerns that led you to seek therapy
• Learning new ways to cope with stress and anxiety
• Managing anger, grief, depression, and other emotional pressures
• Improving communication and listening skills
• Changing old behavior patterns and developing new ones
• Discovering new ways to solve problems in your family or marriage

Is therapy confidential?
In general, the law protects the confidentiality of all communications between a client and therapist. No information is disclosed without prior written permission from the client.

However, there are some exceptions, required by law, to this rule.

• Suspected child abuse or dependent adult or elder abuse. The therapist is required to report this to the appropriate authorities immediately.
• The therapist is required to notify the police if a client is threatening serious bodily harm to another person.
• If a client intends to harm himself or herself, then the therapist will make every effort to work with the individual to ensure their safety. However, if an individual does not cooperate, additional measures may need to be taken.

What if I want to stop treatment or am uncomfortable with the therapy process?

I desire to work alongside my clients on their growth and change.  Therefore, at any time, if the client desires to stop, he or she is able to end the appointments.  I do prefer the client discuss the decision with me, so that I can provide possible referrals or recommendations.

How often will I attend therapy?
The frequency of visits is based on your individual situation.  Most people attend therapy once per week.  This frequency can be increased or decreased to meet your specific needs. 

How long will therapy last?
The length of therapy depends on your specific goals and problems that you want to address in therapy.  Some clients are able to achieve their goals within 10 or less sessions of treatment, where others remain in therapy longer-term to continue addressing other issues.  Your progress in therapy can also be influenced by how much time you are able to dedicate to “change” outside of the therapy session.