FAQs

Is therapy really worth the time and money?

Healthy, successful people are often those who have learned the art of asking for help every now and then. We’re not meant to do it all on our own! It takes courage to reach out for support. In therapy, Kelli helps you explore and identify your strengths, learning how to leverage them to face life’s challenges. Therapy goes at your pace, but often helps you to more efficiently discover what works best. Why waste time and energy doing what doesn’t work? Many people view therapy as a worthwhile investment in themselves.

What’s the difference between talking to a therapist versus my best friend or family?

A mental health professional approaches your situation from a neutral, third-party perspective. You’ll get a listening ear without any judgment. You’ll also learn new skills based on sound psychological research and clinical experience…not pop culture trends or mental health fads! Furthermore, counseling is completely confidential. Your counselor will adhere to professional boundaries set by the American Association of Marriage & Family Therapy (AAMFT)’s ethical practice standards.

Can I just take medication and not go to therapy?

Certain medications can be very helpful and effective supports when used together with therapy. Medication alone is not a “cure” to solve all problems, however. Remember that Kelli is a licensed Marriage & Family Therapist (LMFT) and not a doctor, psychiatrist, or other type of prescribing professional. She cannot prescribe medication. Kelli’s therapy explores and unpacks the problems you are experiencing. Sometimes, clients decide that they’d like to pursue a medication evaluation. It is always the client’s personal choice to take medication or not. Kelli has good relationships with trusted psychiatrists and doctors in the community when medication evaluation and management is appropriate.

How does therapy work?

Because each person experiences different issues and has different goals for counseling, therapy looks a little different for everyone. Kelli doesn’t take a cookie cutter approach to therapy. She tailors therapy to your specific needs. Typically, however, therapy always starts by exploring who you are as a person and what you hope to gain from your time together. Together, therapists and clients set therapy goals and make a specific plan to reach them, checking in with this plan as they go along.

How long does therapy take?

Everyone’s circumstances are unique. The length of time counseling can take depends on your desire for personal development, your level of emotional distress, how much physical energy you have, your level of commitment to change, and of course the factors that caused you to seek counseling in the first place. Therapy always proceeds at the client’s pace.

I want to go to therapy, but my partner doesn’t. What do I do?

It’s great that you’re so dedicated to personal and relationship growth! A client’s active participation in therapy is crucial to their success. It can feel discouraging when your partner is hesitant or even critical about the idea of therapy. In the meantime, try to remain open to your own self-examination and growth. You may be surprised to hear that it’s quite common for one partner to begin individual therapy prior to their partner joining in for couple therapy.