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If you’ve never talked to a counselor, social worker, or psychologist—and you should ONLY put your life in the hands of a licensed professional– it may seem like a mysterious process. What actually happens in there? Why can’t I just talk to my buddy instead?

Let’s take those questions one at a time.

Should I go to therapy?

If you think you might need to, that’s a good indicator that you should give it a try. There’s no commitment made in the first session; it’s a time to tell your story, get some feedback and a sense of your therapist’s personality, ask questions about how they work, then go home and make your decision.

There’s a saying that those who don’t study history are condemned to repeat it. Therapy is a place to recount your history and hear about new ideas: new ways to think about your life, new responses to replace your old ones that aren’t working. I am extensively educated to help you with that.

What actually happens in there?

There will be paperwork, of course, including a written explanation of the privacy laws that govern licensed therapists. For example, you can tell me anything and keep it private, with these exceptions:

If you use insurance, your company has the right to your chart.

If you say you’re going to hurt yourself or someone else, I have to contact authorities.

If you say a child or elder has been or is being abused, I have to report this information as well.

I will take a history of the important events in your life, hear about your current challenges, and possibly have you fill out some tests to get a better diagnosis of your problem. In future sessions, I will give you a Plan of Care that outlines our work together.

Why can’t I just talk to my buddy instead?

Friends are not unbiased, trained, objective, or equipped to help challenge and change your thinking. Talking to a friend without professional feedback just keeps the problem going in circles. We are governed by strict codes so that we can’t be your friend, business associate, or anything else that would complicate your care.

If you would like to explore therapy with me, I welcome your questions! Call today for an appointment.

“What is it?”

Although the specific diagnosis is complicated, these symptoms may indicate signs of Seasonal Affective Disorder: craving for carbohydrates, excessive sleeping, lack of energy, weight gain, and all of the symptoms of depression that go along with it: excessive guilt, irritability and others.

“Who’s at risk?”

People who live at higher latitudes have a higher risk, as do people already diagnosed with Bipolar II disorder. Younger people are more at risk than older ones. Regardless of these factors, anyone can suffer with symptoms of Seasonal Affective Disorder. ONLY A LICENSED HEALTH PROFESSIONAL can make this diagnosis!

“What makes it worse?”

Having the short days of winter upon us right after the overspending, overeating, and family time of the holidays can contribute to the exhaustion we feel. Less daytime light to feed our vitamin D needs is also a factor, as is less stimulation of the glands that provide serotonin production. Making New Years’ Resolutions can make you feel ineffective and hopeless if you are depressed; postpone until spring.

“What makes it better?”

Getting outside, even 20 minutes a day, without sunglasses. This exposes you to unfiltered light.

Leaving lights on inside the house, and drapes open to outside light.

Light boxes (available online) specifically designed for Seasonal Affective Disorder.

Therapy to offer support and new ways of viewing your world, and to prevent worsening of depression.

Exercise, exercise, exercise: again, 20 minutes a day helps. Exercise can be a ‘magic bullet’ for depression and anxiety relief! If it’s bad weather, walk at a mall or a gym.

“How can a therapist help me?”

A therapist can hold you accountable for putting these helps into place in your life, as well as help you examine how you think when depressed and challenge that faulty thinking. There’s no need to go at life alone, and untreated depression is indeed dangerous. There IS help!