FAQs

I’ve never talked to anyone. I’m used to handling things on my own. Aren’t people who go to councilors and Psychiatrists weak?

This is the message our societies have given us for generations. Unfortunately, such messages are detrimental to our emotional wellbeing and serve as a hurdle to our empowerment and overall growth.

We are encouraged to go to medical doctors for physical issues, but we forget that our minds, too can struggle with some challenges and that time seeking help is a sign of courage and not weakness.

Do You prescribe Controlled substances like sedatives like Xanax, Ativan , Klonopin, Adderall, Vyvanse, Concerta, Ambien?

  Please be advised, I do not prescribe any form of Controlled substances as my EMR is not geared for that. I only use Non-controlled substances in my practice. if you feel you may need them, then you will have to find care elsewhere, either by calling your insurance or google search. If you are under my care and I feel you may benefit from them, in that case, I can collaborate with your Primary care provider, and see if they will be willing to prescribe them, while I am monitoring you.

Can You help me quit drinking or other recreational Substances?

Unfortunately, that is beyond the scope of my practice. I am not an addiction specialist, and can not treat substance use disorders.

What’s the difference between talking to you or my best friend or family?

The difference is between someone who can do something and someone who has the training and experience to do that same thing professionally. A mental health professional can help you approach your situation in a new way– teach you new skills, gain different perspectives, listen to you without judgment or expectations, and help you listen to yourself. Furthermore,  Psychiatric care is completely confidential. You won’t have to worry about others “knowing my business.” Lastly, if your situation provokes a great deal of negative emotion, and you’ve been confiding in a friend or family member, there is the risk that once you are feeling better you could start avoiding that person so you aren’t reminded of this difficult time in your life.

Do I have to take medication?

It all depends on your symptoms. I use a Holistic approach in all my care.

Sometimes medications are necessary, and I will partner with you so that we pick the medicine that you feel the most comfortable with, and that will have minimal side effects. I will monitor you very closely and will ensure that you get the most benefit from your medications. I also am a strong believer in therapy, as research has proved how therapy can change our brain connections for good, and lead to what is called /neurogenesis, meaning growth and recovery of nerve cells, and nerve endings, thus leading to healing of past trauma, depression, and anxiety. And if my caseloads permits can see you for both Therapy,( if I feel I will be a right fit for you as a Therapist) and Medication management.

I also believe strongly in our body’s hidden potential to use our inner healing power to give us a sense of well-being. So I will use some life coaching skills and help you learn some healthy and interesting ways of healing. Medications can be effective but they alone cannot solve all issues. Our work together is designed to explore and unpack the problems you are experiencing and expand on the strengths that can help you accomplish your personal goals.

How does it work? What do I have to do in sessions?

Because each person has different issues and goals for counseling, it will be different depending on the individual. I tailor my therapeutic approach to your specific needs.

How long will it take?

Unfortunately, this is not possible to say on a general FAQs page. Everyone’s circumstances are unique to them and the length of time counseling can take to allow you to accomplish your goals depends on your desire for personal development, your commitment, and the factors that are driving you to seek counseling in the first place.

I want to get the most out of therapy. What can I do to help?

I am so glad you are dedicated to getting the most out of your sessions. Your active participation and dedication will be crucial to your success.

Can you be both my Coach and my Psychiatrist?

Unfortunately not. They are two different entities. And can not be mixed together. If you are looking for coaching, please visit my coaching website. Once I see you as a coach, I can never, ever see you as a Psychiatric client. It’s the basic rule. We can not cross the boundary between the two. If I am your coach and feel you will benefit from psychiatric care, I will refer you out. And if you are my patient and want to get coaching from me, I do incorporate some life coaching skills in our session,, nor can I give you advice or mentor you. Nor can I charge you for any separate coaching sessions. You can also not be a part of my group coaching programs that I sometimes do separately, nor can you get any of my coaching services. The line cannot be crossed.

What is the difference between Coaching, Psychiatry, and Therapy?

Psychiatrist: Medication management
Psychiatrists are medical doctors who specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of mental and behavioral health disorders. Psychiatrists evaluate patients and prescribe medications when beneficial. Some also provide weekly talk therapy and if they do, they can be the most expensive of the therapy sessions; however, combining medication management and talk therapy allows for highly coordinated care and a psychiatrist who knows your situation very well before prescribing.

Therapist Provide Talk therapy only
Therapist is a broadly used term for professionals trained in psychological and emotional issues, including psychologists, social workers, counselors, and marriage and family therapists. While some licensures require more education and training experience, all mental health professionals are trained in some form of talk therapy, and there are outstanding therapists at every licensure level. The most important factors to prioritize in a therapist search are personal fit and the progress you make with them.

Life coaches: Coaching
Life coaches may or may not be mental health, medical, or clinical professionals; anyone can call themselves a life coach, although some may have professional certification. Many licensed therapists now offer life coaching services as a separate service. Life coaches focus on helping clients achieve personal and work goals, such as navigating careers and relationships, finding a higher purpose in life, realizing one’s full potential, and getting “unstuck.” Life coaching is more like mentoring. It is not Therapy nor is it diagnosing or treating any Mental health condition.