FAQs

This is a short list of questions that I hear most often from new clients

Who are my clients?
People who come to see me for therapy are people just like you. Although many of my clients are men, I also work with women and adolescents. I welcome anyone who is seeking hope and relief from chaos and stress. No issue is too big or small to talk about.

How do you know you need help?
Any time life feels overwhelming, we could all use a little help. It is quite normal with ordinary stress to solicit advice from a good friend or coworker. Counseling is just another way to ask for help. A good time to involve a counselor is when pain and the pressures of life interfere with normal daily functioning, make you unhappy or cloud your enjoyment of things you used to love doing. Chances are if you are reading this site, something inside you that knows you need someone to talk with.

Does this mean I’m crazy?
No, definitely not! In fact those who are aware they need help and willing to seek it out are more courageous than crazy. “Crazy people” don’t usually wonder if they’re crazy; hence, you are not.

What does a typical session look like?
Our first session will generally include getting to know each other and the nature of the problems that brought you in and what you'd like to accomplish through the experience. We will also go over any necessary paperwork. From there I will allow you to choose the direction. Success in therapy depends on the individual wanting to make a change in his or her life, so I will generally encourage my clients to get the ball rolling each week. This requires a certain amount of thought about our work during the week and prior to each session. Sessions are usually 50 minutes in length unless otherwise agreed upon.

Do you have evening appointments available?
Yes, I offer both daytime and evening appointments. When we schedule a time to meet, please make me aware of any time constraints you have.

Can you we talk over the phone before meeting?
Absolutely. The phone number for Advocate Counseling (206-280-4170) is my private business number. If I am not available, you will get my voicemail. I do not use a receptionist or answering service. The message you leave is confidential and will only be answered by me. 

If this is our first time talking, I will spend time asking you about current life circumstances. You should use this time to ask me any questions as well. At any point during the conversation, you may decide to request an appointment. Let me know when you are ready.