Why Therapy?

Research indicates that for many individuals with problems such as anxiety and depression, therapy can be as effective or more effective than medication, and therapy can be more resistant to symptoms returning than medications. For other problems, such as interpersonal communication, organization and planning, and strength based interventions, there aren’t any medications!

Therapy improves coping skills, targets “problem behaviors,” and focuses on positive changes that can be made to achieve healthy living. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) examines the way we think about problems and solutions, and how we act in the world.

Generally, small changes can lead to significant improvements. Research supports the use of CBT for many mental health concerns, indicating that CBT is a highly successful intervention for many individuals.

For folks on the Autism Spectrum, cognitive flexibility, perspective taking, and becoming “multilingual” in the language of Aspie and the surrounding culture are all important components of treatment.

How long will it take until I feel better/things improve?

A much harder question to answer, and “It depends” is probably the best answer.   Many people say that just making an appointment helps them feel better!

The best predictor of success seems to be the ability of the client and therapist to connect – the sense that the therapist “gets it” and can provide support, guidance, and teach new skills.