How Therapy Works
What We Do
How therapy works: Marriage and Family Therapists (MFTs) provide counseling for adults, children, families, and groups when relationships are stressed. The troubles we all see and feel are often most noticeable in light of our interactions with other people – whether spouses, bosses, children, or parents. Our happiness and even our health can be stressed when these troubles arise in our relationships. When problems occur, be they of the past or present, our quality of life is compromised. Therapy works by using the therapeutic relationship to better understand, change and heal through these difficulties.
Qualifications
After receiving a Master’s Degree in Counseling Psychology, each of us has been licensed as a Marriage and Family Therapist by the state of California. In order to earn our license, following the Master’s Degree program, we each completed 3,000 hours of supervised training and stringent examination and licensing procedures. Each of us has received additional training and supervised practice in dealing with a wide range of issues. Ongoing continuing education is required to maintain our MFT license and ensure that you receive the best care possible.
How to choose a therapist?
Finding a good fit between you and your counselor is of the utmost importance; your ability to speak honestly and feel understood, as well as receive helpful words from the therapist have a great impact upon the success of your work together. Your relationship with a counselor will likely feel different from others in your life. It can become a unique opportunity for profound growth and lasting change. Our goal is to create, together, a trusting, safe relationship where you can explore your needs, challenges, and relationships.
How do I start therapy?
We welcome you to call any of the therapists listed on this site. You can read about each therapist by clicking on their picture or by by clicking on their picture on the home page. You can meet us in person in San Jose (between Downton and Los Gatos, and Campbell and Willow Glen) or use video conferencing for remote sessions. We will be happy to answer any questions you may have.
What about confidentiality?
Your privacy is a primary consideration and a cornerstone of the therapeutic experience. All Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (MFTs) are legally bound to hold confidentiality according to the laws of the State of California. There are a few exceptions to confidentiality and your therapist will review those with you in person.
Benefits of psychotherapy
Research underscores the value of psychotherapy as an effective method of treating emotional and physical symptoms, from the ways stressful relationships affect mood to even ways these symptoms show up physically in bodily symptoms, like stomach aches and panic attacks. Therapy offers a unique possibility to explore your patterns, beliefs, fears, and to explore those areas of your life where you are feeling challenged or the need for improvement or relief. This is most effectively done in regularly scheduled sessions. The therapist/client relationship provides the opportunity for you to become empowered to change your life and grow into your fullest potential. In essence, the relationship between the client and therapist over time is how therapy works.