How does therapy work? How often will we meet and what do I do in sessions?
Because each person has different issues and goals for therapy, your treatment will be tailored to meet your specific needs. On average, most clients start off meeting with me weekly. Sessions might include talking about your concerns, learning about yourself and about the issues you are facing, and learning and practicing new skills. Often, I will give you ideas of things to try on your own between sessions. You do not need to know how to “do therapy”. I will guide you along the way.
How long will therapy take?
Unfortunately, this is not possible to say in a general FAQs page. Everyone’s circumstances are unique to them and the length of time therapy can take to allow you to accomplish your goals depends on your desire for personal development, your commitment, and the factors that are driving you to seek therapy in the first place.
Do you prescribe medication?
Psychologists in Texas do not prescribe medication. I do have training and experience in the use of medication in conjunction with psychotherapy, and I am happy to provide you with referrals to local physicians or psychiatrists. With your consent, I can talk with your prescribing physician regarding your treatment.
You describe yourself as a Certified Eating Disorder Specialist. What does that mean?
It means that I am uniquely qualified to help people who struggle with issues of food, weight, and body image. The International Association of Eating Disorder Professionals (iaedp) provides certification for professionals like me who specialize in the treatment of eating disorders. Therapists who achieve this certification have completed rigorous coursework and examination and have demonstrated expertise through years of experience in the understanding, assessment, and treatment of the full range of eating disorders. Certified professionals are expected to serve the community by providing excellent therapeutic services, education, and consultation. To maintain their certification, they are required to work in the field and to accrue relevant continuing education hours. My hope is that my specialized certification with give you confidence that you can get the help you need.
I suspect that my daughter might be developing an eating disorder, but she insists that nothing is wrong. What should I do?
Trust your instincts. If you suspect that your child has a problem, she probably does. Individuals with eating disorders are often unable to recognize the severity of the problem. It is important to intervene as soon as you suspect a problem. Early intervention dramatically improves your child’s prognosis. If you are concerned about child and would like more guidance, please contact me and we can talk about the next steps.
