Why do people seek therapy?

People come into therapy for many reasons. Some need to respond to unexpected changes in their lives, while others seek self-exploration and personal growth. When coping skills are overwhelmed by guilt, doubt, anxiety, or despair, therapy can help. Therapy can provide support, problem-solving skills, and enhanced coping for issues such as depression, anxiety, lack of confidence, relationship troubles, unresolved childhood issues, bereavement, spiritual conflicts, stress management, body image issues, and creative blocks. People seeking psychotherapy are willing to take responsibility for their actions, work towards self-change and create greater awareness in their lives.

What can I expect in a therapy session?

During sessions you are expected to talk about the primary concerns and issues in your life. A session lasts 50 minutes, but some people request longer sessions. Usually weekly sessions are best. Some people who are in crisis or extreme distress need more than one session per week, at least until the crisis passes. During the time between sessions it is beneficial to think about and process what was discussed. At times, you may be asked to take certain actions outside of the therapy sessions, such as reading a relevant book or keeping records. For therapy to "work," you must be an active participant, both in and outside of the therapy sessions.

What benefits can I expect from working with a therapist?

A number of benefits are available from participating in psychotherapy. Often it is helpful just to know that someone understands. Therapy can provide a fresh perspective on a difficult problem or point you in the direction of a solution. Many people find therapy to be a tremendous asset to managing personal growth, interpersonal relationships, family concerns, and the hassles of daily life. The benefits you obtain from therapy depend on how well you use the process and put into practice what you learn. Some of the benefits available from therapy include:

• Attaining a better understanding of yourself and your personal goals and values
• Developing skills for improving your relationships
• Finding resolution to the issues or concerns that led you to seek therapy
• Find new ways to cope with stress and anxiety
• Managing anger, depression, and other emotional pressures
• Improving communications skills - learn how to listen to others, and have others listen to you
• Getting "unstuck" from unhealthy patterns - breaking old behaviors and develop new ones
• Discovering new ways to solve problems
• Improving your self-esteem and boosting self-confidence

What if I don't know what my goals are for therapy?

If you aren't sure what your goals are for therapy, your first task is to figure that out. It may take several sessions before a direction is clarified. During the course of therapy your goals may change. However, establishing a direction for therapy will help you get the most out of the experience.

Do you accept insurance? How does insurance work?

We do not accept insurance for payment, however we are happy to provide you the information to file with your insurance carrier for reimbursement.
There is a confusing array of insurance arrangements. The first thing you should do is check with your insurance carrier. Check your coverage carefully and find the answers to the following questions:

• Do I have mental health benefits?
• What is my deductible and has it been met?
• How many sessions per calendar year does my plan cover?
• How much do you pay for an out-of-net provider?
• Is there a limitation on how much you will pay per session?
• Is primary care physician approval required?

Is therapy confidential?

In general, the law protects the confidentiality of all communications between a client and a psychotherapist. Information is not disclosed without written permission. However, there are number of exceptions to this rule. Exceptions include:

• Suspected child abuse or dependant adult or elder abuse. The therapist is required by law to report this to the appropriate authorities immediately.
• If a client is threatening serious bodily harm to another person/s. The therapist must notify the police and inform the intended victim.
• If a client intends to harm himself or herself. The therapist will make every effort to enlist their cooperation in insuring their safety. If they do not cooperate, further measures may be taken without their permission in order to ensure their safety.  

About Hypnosis & Hypnotherapy:
Content provided by the National Board for Certified Clinical Hypnotherapists
     
     Hypnosis
          Hypnosis is a state of inward attention and focused concentration.  It is often referred to as trance or as an altered state of consciousness. When the mind is concentrated and focused, people are better able to tap into and utilize their inner resources, to make personal changes, and learn how to better govern their own lives.  Because hypnosis and self-hypnosis allow people to use more of their potential, they gain more self-control (it is a myth that people loose control during hypnosis).

Everyone has experienced hypnosis or trance, although it may not be referred to by that name.  If you've ever been absorbed in thought, reading a book or watching TV, and failed to hear someone talking to you--you were in a trance-like state.  Perhaps you have been watching a movie at the theater, and lost track of the fact that there are dozens of people nearby--another hypnotic-like state of mind.  These very focused states of attention are, in fact, everyday experiences of what is called hypnosis.  Clinical hypnosis is different only to the extent that you will be experiencing it with the guidance of your Hypnotherapist, rather than spontaneously.

     How Clinical Hypnosis is Used
          Clinical hypnotherapy can be used in various ways.  For one, guided mental imagery is very powerful in a state of mind such as hypnosis.  The mind responds to imagery to assist in bringing about personal changes and desired outcomes.  A client with an unwanted behavior may be encouraged in hypnosis to vividly imagine acting differently and more appropriately.  The unconscious mind then has a tendency to bring about the imagined change.  Another client, with a fear of some sort, might be invited to imagine being a supportive advisor to herself and as a result, find the fearful response no longer troubles her.  Athletes, teachers and business people are currently being taught to use hypnotic mental imagery to enhance their performances.

Another basic hypnotic approach that is often used by Hypnotherapists, is to offer hypnotic and post-hypnotic suggestions to the client.  suggestions given while in hypnosis are more likely to be accepted by the client's unconscious.  When hypnotic suggestions are given that encourage beneficial changes, they can dynamically influence the client's life into the future.

Clinical hypnosis can also be used to better understand underlying motivations for emotional or behavioral difficulties.  Hypnosis provides a safe and secure state of mind in which to both examine the roots of problems and explore promising alternatives.  The Hypnotherapist can then help the client select from the alternatives and make healthier choices.

Mental health applications include but are not limited to: Addictions, allergies, anxiety, phobia, stress management, post traumatic stress, bed-wetting- depression, sports performance, smoking cessation, obesity and weight management, sleep disorders, stress related high blood pressure, self image, sexual dysfunctions, concentration, test anxiety and learning disorders, interpersonal communications, fitness, marriage and family issues, undesirable behaviors and habits, and abuse.
 
Medical applications include but are not limited to:  Childbirth, gastrointestinal disorders, skin problems, warts, pain, relief of nausea and vomiting associated with chemotherapy and pregnancy.

     The Benefits of Hypnotherapy and Self - Hypnosis

          When the Health - Care Professional is well trained in both the utilization of hypnosis as a specialty or sub-specialty, and is qualified as a health care professional to treat any specific problem, clinical hypnotherapy can be utilized successfully for a variety of mental health and medical issues.  Some people seem to have higher initial hypnotic responsiveness, while others may need more training to reach useful levels of hypnosis for hypnotic therapy.  However, according to Milton H. Erickson, M.D., who is considered the world's leading authority on hypnosis, everyone is hypnotizable and can benefit from hypnotherapy

Of course, hypnosis is most effective when the client or patient is motivated to change.  therefore, it is important to Keep in mind that hypnotherapy, like any other therapeutic modality, can benefit some people more than others.

     Myths About Hypnosis

          Many false beliefs about hypnosis are based on what people read in novels, see in the movies or stage hypnosis show.  People are also concerned that being hypnotized means loss of control or that only weak willed people can be hypnotized.  This too is a falsehood and, in fact, the opposite is the case.  Learning to experience hypnosis and to use self-hypnosis provides more self-control for the client.  The idea that people will do out of ordinary things is perpetuated by stage hypnotism shows.  Stage hypnotists select people from the audience who are willing to be responsive, but more importantly, may have exhibitionist tendencies and go along for the show.  Novelists and film writers create works of fiction and are also in the entertainment business. Unfortunately, these hypnosis stage show and entertainment portrayal's help create myths about hypnosis which sometimes discourage people from seeking genuine hypnotherapy and the help they need.  

Another myth is that people "go under" and experience a loss of consciousness while in hypnosis.  As a result, they mistakenly think they will be "knocked out" and won't remember what happened during their hypnotic session. In fact, hypnosis is a state of heightened awareness.  However, because there is an inward focused of attention, some extraneous external happenings may not be noticed.  Nonetheless, people usually can remember everything that occurs in hypnosis.  It is important to note that in everyday living we tend to forget a lot.  Just think of how many times two people can argue about what was said within the last few minutes.

Finally, in hypnosis, the client is not under the control of the hypnotist because hypnosis is not something that is imposed on people.  The Hypnotherapist merely serves as a facilitator or teacher helping the client discover that hypnosis is a natural, safe and useful state of mind they allow themselves to experience.  Modern hypnotherapy is often referred to as a co-active, or collaborative approach. The Hypnotherapist assists the client to discover their own inner resources and path to well-being.

     Qualified Hypnotherapists

Mental health and medical professionals practice hypnosis as a specialty or sub-specialty.  As in choosing any health care professional, clients should make an effort to carefully assess qualifications when selecting a Hypnotherapist.  Careful questioning can help you avoid choosing wrongly.  Ask if the person is Licensed in their field by their state licensing board.

About Massage and Bodywork Therapy
Content provided by Healthwise 

     What is massage?

Massage is rubbing the soft tissues of the body, such as the muscles. Massage may be helpful in reducing tension and pain, improving blood flow, and encouraging relaxation. Massage therapists usually apply pressure with their hands, but they can also use their forearms, elbows, or feet. There are at least 80 different types of massage. Some are gentle, and some are very active and intense.

For example, Swedish massage is very gentle and is often used to promote relaxation, improve blood flow, and relieve muscle tension. The therapist uses long, gliding strokes and kneading and tapping techniques on the top layer of muscles in the direction of blood flow to the heart. This may also include moving the joints gently to improve range of motion.

Deep tissue massage is more active and intense. It is used to treat long-lasting muscle tension. The therapist applies slow strokes (with the fingers, thumbs, and elbows) using intense pressure to reach deeper layers of the muscles than those reached with a Swedish massage technique.

You can use self-massage to unwind after work or school, or to energize yourself in the morning. You can easily massage your feet, hands, or neck while doing other tasks or while relaxing. Self-massage works best if you are in comfortable clothes and are sitting or lying in a comfortable position. Use oil or lotion to massage bare skin.

Trigger point massage is less gentle and can sometimes be uncomfortable. The therapist applies firm pressure to knots or tight, tense muscles that have been overused or injured, continuing until the muscles relax. Let your massage therapist know if you feel any discomfort during the massage.

Some people feel that massage works because the touch is healing. Touch also communicates a sense of caring.

     What is massage used for?

People use massage to promote relaxation and relieve pain. It can also relieve muscle tension and may improve blood flow, relieve pressure on nerves, and restore normal joint movement.

Most studies on massage show that massage reduces anxiety and may improve blood flow and decrease muscle tension.¹ However, there is little reliable evidence that massage reduces pain, improves movement, or improves athletic performance.¹

     Is massage safe?

When done properly, massage is considered safe. Certification by the National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork (NCBTMB) ensures that your massage therapist has a certain level of training and uses certain practice guidelines. Keep in mind that massage may be expensive, is generally not covered by insurance, and requires a time commitment.

Always tell your doctor if you are using an alternative therapy or if you are thinking about combining an alternative therapy with your conventional medical treatment. It may not be safe to forgo your conventional medical treatment and rely only on an alternative therapy.

References

Citations

1. Vickers A, Zollman C (1999). ABC of complementary medicine: Massage therapies. BMJ, 319(7219): 1254–1257.