Therapist Potomac, MD

When you are looking for a Potomac, MD therapist, give Lindsey Hoskins & Associates a call to schedule your consultation. Deciding that it is time to start therapy can be one of the most difficult decisions you make. You may be feeling like you do not have control over your emotions or you might think that it shows some kind of weakness if you choose to pursue therapy. These ideas could not be further from the truth and yet society has perpetuated these notions for years. Choosing to pursue therapy is incredibly brave and we are so glad that you are taking this step toward healing yourself. When you are ready to speak with us, please give our office a call.

What can you expect from your first therapy session?

When you are ready to see your Potomac therapist, you may be wondering what you can expect. Do you sit silently in a quiet waiting room with calm music playing and then go lie down on a couch for an hour and talk about your parents? Maybe so! Often, you can navigate therapy how you want to and your therapist may be open to letting you choose the kind of setting you are in. 

For your first therapy session, you can expect paperwork. Your therapist will want you to sign standard forms, like a services agreement and HIPPA forms. However, you will also need to work on forms like your medical history (what kinds of medications you are on) and likely be asked why you are choosing to go to therapy. Some questions you can expect are: 

• What brought you here? 
• What symptoms have you been experiencing?
• When did these symptoms start? 
• Did a particular event trigger your symptoms or did they come on gradually? 

It is helpful to come to your first session prepared with an idea of how your problems began and what may have caused them. However, if you do not have the “right” answer, that’s okay. Your therapist simply wants you to be honest and they are not looking for a cookie-cutter answer. 

What if there are things in therapy that make me uncomfortable? 

You must be honest about what you are thinking and feeling with your therapist. The truth is, there may be some things about therapy that make you uncomfortable. You may be dealing with repressed trauma or your therapist may ask you questions that bring up hurtful memories. If you are ready to discuss these things, it can be difficult but helpful in helping you move forward. 

I don’t want my therapist gossiping with other people about my problems. Should I be worried? 

Therapists are, for the most part, bound by rules of confidentiality to keep your sessions private. This means they will not leave your session and go share your information or gossip about you with other people. You should expect a level of professionalism with what you say to your therapist. On the other hand, if you give your therapist permission to disclose something you say or if your therapist believes you are a danger to yourself or others, they have the right to divulge certain information to keep you and others safe. 

Get Help From a Therapist Today! 

If you are ready to move forward with therapy and speak with someone about what you are going through, reach out to Lindsey Hoskins & Associates. We believe in helping our clients confront difficult experiences. Call our Potomac therapist now. 

Learn To Set Boundaries With Your Therapist

When you have a good relationship with your Potomac, MD therapist, it can be easy for the lines of that relationship to begin to blur. Especially if you have been seeing your therapist for years, have a set schedule, and meet with them regularly, you may begin to feel that your therapist is more of a friend than a professional who is there to help you talk through your feelings. The team at Lindsey Hoskins & Associates knows this can happen because you share intimate details of your life with your therapist. It is easy to see how, similar to talking with your best friend, you may start showing up to therapy feeling like you are just venting to an old friend. However, it is important to remember that your therapist is there to help you work through your problems, not there as your buddy. Remembering this will not only help keep things professional but will also help you get the most out of your therapy sessions. 

Do I need to set boundaries with my therapist? 

You and your therapist will have a professional relationship. While that sounds very stiff and rigid, it is still a relationship and all relationships need some kind of boundaries in place. To get the most you can out of your therapy sessions, these are a few things to keep in mind as you navigate this relationship.

• Giving (or receiving) gifts. This can be tricky because as you see your therapist more and more you might think that your relationship is close enough to where you can exchange gifts, whether it’s a birthday, a holiday, or something else. Most therapists will never accept or give gifts to their patients and it is important to understand that giving a gift to your therapist can put them in an awkward situation or a situation where they have a conflict of interest. 

• Understand how to get in touch. Your therapist should make it clear from the start what their office hours are, whether you can schedule emergency sessions, and when and how you should contact them outside of these hours. It is important that you stick to the communication boundaries your Potomac therapist has set so that you can both have your privacy outside of your sessions. 
• Know that you control what you say. Your therapist should encourage you to try new things and get out of your comfort zone. This is how we all grow as people. However, you have the right to avoid topics or not discuss something if you are not ready to or if the conversation makes you feel uncomfortable. Your therapist should never force you to discuss something that you aren’t ready for yet. 

Your therapist is human, like everyone else. It can be easy to want to have them on your side or make them your friend instead of your therapist. Remember, boundaries are in place for both you and your therapist and can help you truly get what you need out of your therapy sessions. If you have questions about boundaries or want to learn more about what you should expect out of your therapy sessions, reach out to Lindsey Hoskins & Associates now. Our Potomac therapist is here to help.

A FEW THINGS TO KEEP IN MIND AS YOU NAVIGATE THIS RELATIONSHIP INFOGRAPHIC

Preparing Yourself for a Successful First Meeting with a Therapist

Starting therapy with a Potomac, MD therapist can be both exciting and daunting, especially if you’ve never been to therapy before. You may feel nervous or anxious about the first meeting with a therapist. However, this meeting is an opportunity to connect with a professional who can help you with whatever you are struggling with. Here are some tips for you on how to prepare yourself for a successful first meeting with a therapist; read through them, then schedule your first meeting with a therapist at Lindsey Hoskins & Associates today!

Research potential therapists

It is essential to find a therapist who is the right fit for you. You may want to consider their specialty, education, experience, and treatment approach. You can start by asking for referrals from friends or healthcare providers. Alternatively, you could use online directories to find a suitable therapist near you.

Check with your insurance company

You should check with your insurance company whether they cover therapy and which therapists are in their network. Some insurance providers have a list of licensed therapists they work with, and you may need pre-authorization to see a therapist. It is best to check your coverage to ensure that you do not have any unexpected bills later on.

Prepare a list of questions

Before attending the first meeting with a therapist, you may want to prepare some questions to ask. Take some time to think about what you want to achieve from therapy and how the therapist can help you. You can ask a Potomac therapist about their approach to therapy, the type of therapy they offer, and what to expect from your sessions.

Be honest and open

It can be challenging to open up to someone you don’t know, but it’s essential to be honest and open during your first meeting with a therapist. Be prepared to answer questions about yourself and your life. The therapist will ask about your family history, childhood, relationships, and struggles. They need to know this to understand your situation better and recommend the appropriate treatment plan.

Be prepared for emotions

Starting therapy can trigger a range of emotions, including anxiety, fear, and vulnerability. It is natural to feel nervous or overwhelmed. However, it’s crucial to remember that a therapist is a trained professional who is there to help you. Be gentle with yourself, take deep breaths, and trust that you’re on the right path towards healing.

Undoubtedly, therapy is an excellent way to improve your mental health and well-being. Preparing for a first meeting with a therapist is critical to making the most of your sessions. Researching potential therapists, checking with your insurance company, preparing a list of questions, being honest and open with your therapist, and being prepared for emotions will allow you to feel more comfortable and confident during your first meeting. Remember, therapy takes time and effort, but it can be life-changing. So, take the first step towards bettering your mental health today by contacting a Potomac therapist at Lindsey Hoskins & Associates.

Potomac Therapy Statistics

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, in 2020, 20.3% of U.S. adults received some type of mental health treatment in the past 12 months, including 16.5% who had taken prescription medication for their mental health and 10.1% who had received counseling or therapy from a mental health professional.

Finding The Right Therapist

With the wide variety of Potomac, MD therapists and therapeutic approaches available, it’s important to ask yourself certain questions to make sure you’re finding a good fit. As you meet and research different therapists, it can easily become overwhelming in the journey, but you can find ways to simplify the process as you consider your core needs. You should be asking yourself specific questions as you navigate your search and be confident in knowing what you’re looking for. Below, here are five common questions to ask yourself when looking for the right therapist.

What are My Therapy Goals and Needs?

Before starting your search for a Potomac therapist, take some time to reflect on your therapy goals and needs. Consider the specific issues or challenges you want to address in therapy, such as anxiety, depression, relationship problems, or personal growth. Reflect on the outcomes you hope to achieve and the areas of your life you want to improve. Understanding your therapy goals and needs will help you narrow down the type of therapist and therapeutic approach that aligns with your objectives.

What Type of Therapeutic Approach Resonates with Me?

Therapists employ various therapeutic approaches, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, psychodynamic therapy, humanistic therapy, or mindfulness-based therapy. Each approach has its own principles and techniques. Consider what resonates with you and aligns with your values and preferences. Research different therapeutic modalities to understand their philosophies and methodologies. Reflect on whether you prefer a structured, goal-oriented approach or a more exploratory, insight-based approach. Finding a therapist who utilizes an approach that resonates with you can enhance the therapeutic process and increase the likelihood of positive outcomes.

What Qualities Am I Seeking in a Therapist?

Consider the qualities you are seeking in a therapist. Think about the personal characteristics, values, and qualities that would make you feel comfortable and supported. Do you prefer a therapist who is empathetic, non-judgmental, or directive? Reflect on the importance of factors like age, gender, cultural sensitivity, or shared experiences. It’s important to feel a sense of trust and connection with your therapist, as it forms the foundation for a therapeutic relationship. Identifying the qualities you desire in a therapist will help you evaluate potential candidates more effectively.

What Are My Practical Considerations?

Practical considerations play a significant role in finding the right Potomac therapist. Reflect on logistical factors that may impact your therapy experience. Consider the therapist’s location and accessibility, as well as the scheduling options available. Think about the financial aspect and determine if the therapist’s fees and payment methods align with your budget and insurance coverage. It’s important to find a therapist who can accommodate your practical considerations to ensure consistent and accessible therapy sessions.

Am I Willing to Engage in the Process and Be Open to Change?

Therapy requires active participation and a willingness to engage in the process. Ask yourself if you are ready and committed to doing the work necessary for personal growth and change. Reflect on your readiness to explore and challenge your thoughts, behaviors, and emotions. Consider your willingness to be vulnerable and share your experiences with a therapist. Being open and receptive to the therapeutic process is essential for achieving meaningful results. Recognize that therapy is a collaborative effort and requires your active engagement.

When you’re ready to start your search for the best therapy match, don’t hesitate to contact Lindsey Hoskins & Associates. Our team handles each consultation and session with precision, care, and thoughtfulness. We are excited to meet you where you are at in life.