The Robert Sylvia Group, Inc
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Helpful Information
The Basics About Therapy
There are many types of therapy and many theoretical approaches, but all tend to share the following assumption:
Therapy must be tailored to the individual. Each person’s emotional make-up is unique, since each person has his or her personal history, life experience, and personality style. In addition, each person has a characteristic way of tackling difficult problems, and we all have strong points and weak points which help or hinder us in coping with emotional troubles. Therapy works best when all these factors are taken into account. The “best” therapy for each person depends on all these factors. Standardized approaches to treatment are rarely flexible enough to account for the uniqueness of each individual.
When to consider Therapy
The decision to see a therapist is a very personal one, most often made at a time of great stress or emotional pain. You may wish to consider therapy if you or someone close to you is experiencing:
- self-esteem issues
- depression or mood swings
- stress or anxiety
- problems with drugs or alcohol
- loneliness
- excessive anger, frustration, or guilt
- communication problems
- constant worries or obsessions
- relationship concerns
- stress in the face of chronic illness
- school problems or job concerns
- life event concerns: marriage, divorce, parenthood, step-family issues, empty nest, retirement, old age
- issues of sexuality or sexual identity
- problems following traumatic events or after-effects of childhood abuse
- domestic violence or other forms of abuse.
The decision to pick up the phone and ask for help is often difficult. Our experienced therapist knows this and can help put you at ease and answer your questions. Whatever your reasons for seeking therapy, we will listen to your concerns and help you decide upon the most appropriate course of action.
Does Therapy Work?
Trust is essential. Psychotherapy works best when you as the consumer trust the competence and integrity of the therapist and when there is strong rapport. A therapist is most likely to be helpful if you are able to communicate your thoughts, feelings and concerns clearly. If you do not feel able to be open and forthcoming, the quality of the treatment you receive may be compromised.
What if I am nervous about Therapy?
Everyone is at least a little nervous when they first begin psychotherapy. Our competent therapists, however, are experienced in helping you overcome these natural feelings of discomfort, and in listening without being judgmental.
How About Privacy?
Privacy is crucial. Trust and openness develop most easily when you know that the things you say will not leave the room. No information about therapy sessions can be released without your permission. There are exceptions to this rule in very strictly defined cases in which a client is either a clear or present danger to themselves or others, or when there is a reasonable suspicion that minors are being neglected or abused.
