WHAT TO EXPECT:

• The initial stage is a thorough evaluation and assessment. These meetings (2-3) may involve psychological testing as well as interview. The result will be specific goals and observations that will allow a decision on how best to continue and develop the treatment plan.

• The next stage will began with the therapy contract or how we implement the treatment plan. “You can’t hit something if you don’t aim at it!” The contract is usually for 8 to 12 meetings.

• The initial process of therapy is called unfreezing. During this phase there is ambivalence, examination and questioning.

• The process continues into the middle phase of examining new options and opportunities. The creative exchange of old thinking and loading new concepts is transformational!

• The final stage is called refreezing. Therapy is a laboratory where it is safe to try out new behavior, thoughts and feeling. New patterns will be reinforced and evaluated. Good therapy achieves goals and encourages autonomy, hence as a team therapist and client are looking toward happy endings with confidence in new skills.

• Quick fixes work but usually don’t last! Effective change requires hard work, sometimes painful and stretching. Because old habits don’t go away, changing them is only possible through commitment and energy.