According to the National Health Council, approximately 40% of Americans live with a chronic illness. The CDC estimates 26% of adult Americans live with some type of disability. Many chronic illnesses and acquired disabilities require strict adherence to a treatment regimen to prevent further complications and premature death. The co-occurrence of psychiatric conditions influences patients’ ability to adhere to these requirements. Even the experience of emotional distress often coincides with adjustment to a long-term illness or disability in the absence of a severe psychiatric disorder.

Additionally, the National Alliance for Caregiving estimates 29% of adults are involved in some type of caregiving for a disabled or aging relative. Caregivers face a number of demands for their time and energy, including assisting in activities of daily living, meal preparation, transportation to appointments, and financial management. Over time, these demands take a toll on caregivers, who struggle to find mental health assistance as they face barriers with transportation or finding someone to watch their loved one while they attend an appointment.

I offer services specializing in this population, meaning I have the knowledge, training, and skills to empathize and guide patients to more effective management of their condition. I provide a space for caregivers to share their concerns, feelings of being overwhelmed, and to process any conflicting emotions about the role they fulfill. My office is located in a wheelchair accessible building to accommodate clients with mobility issues. I also offer telehealth services for clients unable to leave their residence for various reasons.

Each session typically lasts 45-60 minutes. The length of time clients spend working with me varies and depends on their particular situation. Some folks need just a few sessions to talk an issue through, while others prefer or need more intensive work. The range of visits I’ve seen is anywhere from one initial consultation to 40+ sessions over the course of two years. We will work together to decide what feels right for you.

My average number of sessions is approximately 10, which might occur weekly, bi-weekly, or spread out over several months. I ask that, beyond the initial consultation, you commit yourself to attending at least 3 sessions with me. While we will have an on-going dialogue about what is helpful and what isn’t, if we begin to approach a one-year mark, we will have an in-depth discussion about the need for further treatment. You and I will decide together on how often to meet.

During our first few sessions, I would like to get a full picture of you and your history. This information allows me to make a diagnosis (as needed for insurance). Along with your stated goals for coming to therapy, a diagnosis also informs what interventions we pursue.

The most significant part of the therapeutic process is the development of a relationship with the therapist. That can feel strange to some people, and we’ll certainly talk about things most people don’t say out loud. To provide you with a good therapeutic experience, I will listen, approach your case non-judgmentally, and take extra effort to understand your frame of mind.

We will check in with each other every few sessions or so to ensure we are working on the goals you set. The end of therapy, also called termination, is another example of how this relationship can feel strange. One day, you will knowingly and intentionally not return to my office. We’ll talk about that as part of our work together. It’s all part of the process!

This question sets up my favorite response of all time: it depends!

When I reflect on the strongest bonds I’ve had with patients, here are some of the characteristics that made therapy effective:

• More often than not, the patient/family showed up on time and cancelled/rescheduled infrequently.
• The patient/family considered what to discuss before the session to maximize their time (and money).
• The patient/family tried to remain open to direct feedback and were willing to share reactions with me.
• The patient/family understood their role of responsibility in making changes and cultivated a willingness to try new things in between sessions, even if they were difficult.