CONFIDENTIALITY

What is a counseling session like?

If you haven’t ever been in counseling, I know it can seem mysterious or
intimidating. Actually, it really is simply a conversation. However, it is a very
SPECIAL conversation because it’s about you, your life, and your goals. It’s
different than a conversation with a friend for several reasons.

First, I’m completely in service to you. We all need and want to feel heard
and understood, but most people don’t really know how to be good listeners.
They are usually too busy thinking about what they want to say when it is
their turn to speak rather than really listening to the person who is speaking.
In our sessions, I will be listening to you. Therapy is YOUR time to be the
focus of someone’s trained attention, and you do not have to take a turn
listening to me. And I am REALLY listening to you –I am someone who
knows how to listen, understands how you are feeling, listens with
compassion, and knows how to guide you in resolving your distress.

Second, the sessions are confidential. My office is in my home in a relaxed,
comfortable, quiet, confidential setting rather than in a typical office building.
There are no signs outside to indicate that there is a professional office in the
house. There is no crowded waiting room. I am the only one to handle your
calls and records, which further secures your privacy. Your privacy is protected
with rights of the doctor-patient privilege under laws, regulations, and ethical
codes of professional conduct as dictated by the State of New Jersey and
the United States government. Information about you is shared with no one
without your written consent.

Third, I have extensive professional training in a variety of therapeutic
techniques, including hypnotherapy and relaxation training, and draw
knowledge from over 30 years experience with individuals, couples, families,
and groups. This makes me well equipped to help you with a wide range
of issues and problems in a way that a friend would not be able to do.