FAQs
What is the difference between counseling and psychotherapy (or just therapy)?
1
They’re basically the same. The use of the term ‘psychotherapy’ can imply greater levels of depth, but they all mean, in essence, therapy.
How do I know if therapy is right for me?
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You don't need to be in crisis to benefit from therapy. Many people seek therapy because they're feeling anxious, overwhelmed, emotionally exhausted, or stuck in patterns they can't seem to change. Others come because they want to understand themselves more deeply or improve their relationships.
Therapy can provide a space to slow down, make sense of your experiences, and develop new ways of relating to yourself and others. If you're wondering whether therapy might help, we can discuss your concerns during a free 15-minute consultation.
How do I know if anxiety therapy is working?
3
Progress in therapy for anxiety isn't always measured by the absence of anxiety. Anxiety is a normal human emotion, and our goal isn't to eliminate it entirely. Instead, therapy helps you develop a different relationship with anxiety so that it no longer dictates your life.
You may begin to notice changes such as feeling less overwhelmed by anxious thoughts, recovering more quickly after stressful situations, or becoming more willing to engage in activities you once avoided. Many people also find they're less self-critical, more emotionally aware, and better able to tolerate uncertainty without feeling consumed by it.
Because my approach is rooted in IFS, psychodynamic, and attachment-based therapy, we also pay attention to the underlying patterns that contribute to anxiety. As therapy progresses, you may gain a clearer understanding of why certain situations trigger anxiety, recognize longstanding relationship patterns, and feel more connected to your own emotions and needs.
Meaningful change often happens gradually. While some people notice symptom relief within a few sessions, deeper and more lasting change typically unfolds over time. Throughout therapy, we'll regularly reflect on your progress together and make sure our work continues to align with your goals.
Can online therapy be as effective as in-person therapy?
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For many people, yes. Research has consistently shown that online therapy can be just as effective as in-person therapy for concerns such as anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, relationship difficulties, and more
While meeting through a screen may feel different at first, many people are surprised by how quickly the experience begins to feel natural. The most important factor in successful therapy is the quality of the therapeutic relationship and having a space where you feel safe enough to be open and understood.
Online therapy also offers practical advantages. You can attend sessions from the comfort and privacy of your own home, avoid commuting, and fit therapy more easily into a busy schedule. This can make it easier to attend consistently, which is an important part of meaningful progress.
I provide secure telehealth therapy for adults throughout Maine. All you need is a private space, a reliable internet connection, and a device with a camera and microphone. If you're unsure whether online therapy is the right fit for you, we can discuss your questions during a free 15-minute consultation.