Jessica Isaak, M.A., LMFT

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

What is psychotherapy?
A psychotherapy session is 50 minutes long. At the beginning, it is best to have a weekly or bi-weekly sessions to have the greatest effect.

The goal of therapy is to provide support, expand on skills, and manage symptoms with the ultimate goals of having a stronger sense of self. During the first session, you and I will work to establish what you want to accomplish, what has brought you to therapy, and understand the meaning of the symptoms that have lead you to theapy. I then support you to reach those goals during our time together. I like to think of it as a private space, a container if you will, that provides you the space to reflect on where you are, where you need to be, and how to get there.

Based on the goals we collaboratively set I create a treament plan to frame our work together. This will outline how we will achieve your goals and the time needed to attain them.

How does it work?
Psychotherapy is not easily described in a few sentences. Although psychotherapy has been shown to be helpful for many issues, there are no guarantees about treatment outcomes or what you will experience. Psychotherapy is not similar to a visit to a medical doctor. It requires effort on your part – you will need to work on things we talk about not just during our sessions but at home. When exploring issues in treatment, you may feel discomfort, anger, sadness, and anxiety, as well as joy and relief. Addressing issues between family members can also lead to discomfort and may result in changes that were not originally intended.

I encourage you to discuss any uncomfortable thoughts and feelings with me as they arise during the course of treatment. If you have any questions about my treatment methods or my business procedures, please discuss them with me in a timely manner.

How long will it take?
Depending on your specific needs, therapy can be short-term, for a specific issue, or longer-term, to deal with more difficult patterns or your desire for more personal development. Either way, it is most common to schedule regular weekly sessions initially, and then space them out as you see progress.
How much does therapy cost?

My rates are $150 for individuals and $200 for couples.

How do you find the right therapist?
Of utmost importance is the relationship between you and your therapist. You need someone you can trust. Someone you feel comfortable talking about difficult subjects and intimate secrets. Therapy won’t be effective unless you have this bond, so take some time at the beginning to find the right person. I encourage you to shop around and to ask questions when interviewing potential therapists.

For this reason, the first session is used to evaluate if we are a good fit and confirm that psychotherapy is useful for you. I use this first session for you and I to make sure we are compatible and confirm that psychotherapy is useful for you. If not, I have referrals to other professionals that may serve you better.

Do you give advice?
A common misconception of therapy is that the therapist gives advice. I never give advice. I guide and support you and give you the skills you need to make the best decisions for yourself. I believe that we each hold within ourselves the innate ability to grow and be our best selves. Sometimes we are blocked and feel disconnected, but our inner strength is there when we are given the opportunity to listen to it.
What’s the difference between talking to you or my best friend or family?
Talking about your thoughts and feeling with a supportive person helps you feel better. It feels good to be listened to and cared for. Friends and family can offer this support, but sometimes you need help that the people around you can’t provide. When you need extra support, an outside perspective, or some expert guidance, talking to a therapist can help. Therapists are professionally-trained listeners who can help you get to the root of your problem, overcome emotional challenges, and make positive changes in your life.

Therapy is not just for those diagnosed with a mental health problem. Many people seek therapy for help with everyday concern: relationship problems, job stress, or self-doubt. Others turn to it during difficult times, such as divorce or times of change.

See my article Psychotherapy: The Process

Contact me today to get started.

Reconnect to your inner workings by creating more awareness.

818-533-1531
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