Frequently Asked Questions

​Is rational emotive behavior therapy (REBT) the same as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)?

REBT was used in part to create CBT, but they are not identical. They feature similar techniques but have some differences in philosophy and approach. We might use REBT to rethink prior or unconscious assumptions or reduce the intensity of unruly emotions. You can read more about REBT here.

 

Have you always been a counselor?

Actually, I am a career changer who transitioned from working in human resources to clinical mental health counseling.​ I see career as one way to express your values, needs, and challenges out in the real world, and I've always found this process fascinating. I think my HR and counseling experience combine nicely to help clients with their career counseling concerns.

​​

I don't believe in art therapy or this expressive arts stuff you do.

Okay, this one is not a question but I'll address it anyway. You won't be forced to do any activities (artistic or otherwise) if you decide against them. If something might help you, I'll explain it and give you the option. Expressive arts therapy involves multiple art forms (i.e., not just visual art) and is not about your skill or the resulting work. It has evidence-based applications such as helping to clarify confusing emotions and more safely explore painful memories. Some clients also just enjoy having alternatives to talk therapy.

​​​

Do you work with imaginary friends (IFs)?​

If you've seen my counseling profile, you may be referring to internal family systems (IFS) which is another therapy approach that I do work with. It's not imaginary, but it is imaginative​. Dialoguing with yourself may seem peculiar, but it can also be quite powerful. Many mature and otherwise unimaginative (their word) clients may find IFS's innocuous and direct approach to be surprisingly intuitive, and we always try to connect whatever work we do in session to your personal goals.

​​​

If you weren't in the military yourself, how can you help people who are or were?

BLUF:  I grew up on and around military installations, come from a military family, and have served as a federal civilian for the DOD. I may not be active duty, but I can respect and am familiar with what servicemembers go through.

​​

This is a great question for any client seeking therapy. The concern underneath it seems to be, "How much will this therapist understand and not judge me for?" Similarities between you and your therapist can provide an important sense of comfort and trust but are not required for growth.

​

Consider whether you are looking more for therapy or to connect with others similar to you (e.g., other active duty or veterans); these are different but equally valid needs. Also, do you only accept medical care from providers with the same physical concerns as you? Examine your options and remember that you can change your mind later.

​​​​​

What does existential mean again?

This refers to the big stuff: deep thoughts, life purpose, fearing death, etc. We might use an existential focus in session to examine harsh truths and realities or discover new meanings. What's really important then is just to decide what to do with the time that is given us.

​​

​What should I do if I want to start therapy with you? Or if I can't decide?

Schedule a free 15-minute consultation with me in either case. (Reach out by using my profile.) This will help confirm whether we can work together effectively. It is perfectly fine to decide we are not a match, and if I know someone who might be a better fit I can let you know.

​​

​​