Frequently Asked Questions

What can I expect in the first session?

The first session is a chance for us to get to know each other and begin understanding what brings you to therapy. We may talk about your current concerns, important relationships, personal history, goals, and what you hope to gain from therapy. You do not need to have everything figured out before starting. The first session is simply a starting point for building trust, clarity, and direction.
 

Do I need to know exactly what I want to work on before starting therapy?
No. Many people begin therapy feeling overwhelmed, uncertain, or unsure how to explain what they are experiencing. Part of the therapy process is slowing things down and making sense of what feels confusing or heavy. Together, we can identify patterns, emotions, stressors, and goals at a pace that feels manageable.
 

What issues do you work with?

I work with clients navigating anxiety, depression, relationship concerns, identity exploration, life transitions, family stress, communication difficulties, emotional overwhelm, and self-esteem concerns. I also support clients who are trying to better understand patterns in their relationships and how past experiences may be impacting their present life. My approach is collaborative, relational, and grounded in a systemic lens.
 

What does it mean that you use a systemic lens?

A systemic lens means I do not view people as isolated from their relationships, environments, culture, family history, or lived experiences. Instead of only focusing on symptoms, I pay attention to the larger patterns and systems that may be shaping how you feel, relate, cope, and make meaning. This can include family dynamics, relationship patterns, social pressures, identity, community, and life circumstances.
 

What is a Marriage and Family Therapist Trainee?

A Marriage and Family Therapist Trainee is a graduate-level clinician who is completing supervised clinical training as part of the process toward becoming a licensed therapist. As a trainee, I provide therapy under the supervision of Dr. Guy Balice at Life Source Affordable Counseling Services. This means my work is supported by clinical oversight, ethical standards, and ongoing professional development.
 

How long does therapy take?

The length of therapy depends on your goals, needs, circumstances, and the type of support you are looking for. Some clients come for short-term support around a specific issue, while others benefit from longer-term work focused on deeper patterns, relationships, or personal growth. We can check in throughout the process to make sure therapy continues to feel useful and aligned with your goals.
 

How often do sessions happen?

Most therapy sessions are scheduled weekly, especially at the beginning, because consistency helps build momentum and trust. Depending on your needs and availability, session frequency may be adjusted over time. We can discuss what schedule makes the most sense for your situation.
 

What if I feel nervous about starting therapy?

Feeling nervous before starting therapy is very common. Beginning therapy can feel vulnerable, especially if you are used to handling things on your own or are unsure what to expect. You do not have to share everything right away. We can move at a pace that feels respectful, supportive, and grounded.
 

How do I know if therapy is right for me?

Therapy may be helpful if you are feeling stuck, overwhelmed, disconnected, anxious, sad, confused, or unsure how to move forward. It can also be helpful if you want to better understand yourself, improve relationships, set boundaries, process life experiences, or build healthier coping tools. You do not need to be in crisis to benefit from therapy.
 

What is your therapy style?

My style is collaborative, relational, and emotionally attuned. I aim to create a space where clients feel understood while also gently exploring patterns, emotions, and choices that may be impacting their wellbeing. I value honesty, curiosity, cultural humility, and the belief that healing often happens through both insight and meaningful connection.
 

Do you give advice in therapy?

Therapy is not usually about telling you exactly what to do. Instead, I help you explore your options, understand your emotions, identify patterns, and make choices that feel more aligned with your values and needs. At times, I may offer reflections, tools, or clinical observations, but the process remains collaborative.