Frequently asked questions
About Therapy
Many people have questions about therapy. Here you can find answers to many of the common questions. Feel free to contact me if you can't find your answer here. We also have a learning center with in depth information about various therapy-related topics.
What is a Marriage and Family Therapist?
Marriage and
family therapists (MFTs) are psychotherapists and healing arts practitioners licensed by the state of
California.
MFTs assist with a wide variety of issues ranging from
addictions, depression, child behavior and elder concerns.
The terms "marriage,
family and child counselors" (MFCCs) and "marriage and
family therapists" (MFTs) are used interchangeably. All states that regulate the profession use the title "marriage and
family therapist. "
Marriage and
family therapy is highly effective because of the "systemic" orientation that its therapists bring to treatment.
MFTs believe that an individual's emotional issues and concerns must be treated within the context of his or her current or prior relationships if the gains are to be meaningful and productive for the patient.
What are the qualifications for a California licensed marriage and family therapist?
Marriage and
family therapists are licensed by the State of
California.
MFTs have completed extensive education, training, clinical fieldwork, and successful completion of two rigorous exams to demonstrate professional competency.
Requirements for licensure include a related two-year master's or doctoral degree passage, of comprehensive examinations, and completion of at least 3,000 hours of supervised experience.
What is the difference between a MFT, LCSW, Psychologist, and Psychiatrist?
MFT or LMFT: Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with a master's degree in psychology,
counseling psychology, clinical psychology, or marital and
family therapy. Emphasis is on primary service in
counseling and psychotherapy from a variety of therapeutic orientations with individuals, couples, families, and groups.
LCSW: Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a master's degree in clinical social work. Emphasis on primary service in psychosocial diagnosis, assessment and treatment, client advocacy, consultation, evaluation and research.
Psychologist: Possesses a doctoral degree in psychology or a related field with a license to practice
therapy and conducts psychological testing and research.
Psychiatrist: A medical doctor who specializes in psychiatry. Emphasis on primary service in prescribing and monitoring psychotropic medications and sometimes offers psychotherapy.
What should I ask a potential therapist?
Inquire about the therapist's training, licensure status, and commitment to his or her professional development.
Ask what type of
therapy is utilized. How is this different from other types of
therapy? What should you expect?
Does the therapist have a treatment agreement? The treatment agreement will likely cover fees, appointments, cancellations, limits of confidentiality, etc.
What should I ask myself?
What do I hope to gain from
therapy? Will this therapist help me do that?
Am I comfortable with this therapist? Would I want to come back?
Remember: The most important factor in securing effective
therapy is a good relationship between you and your therapist.
Do I feel assured that the therapist is qualified to help me with the issues or concerns that have motivated me to seek
therapy at this time?
Am I willing to do the work necessary to participate in
therapy?
Will therapy work for me?
Research supports the assertions that
therapy works for most clients.
Many report relief from depression, anxiety, relationship problems, and issues affecting the elderly amongst numerous other issues.
Many also report seeking
therapy as a means of personal growth and exploration.
How long are therapy sessions?
Sessions are typically between 45 minutes and 50 minutes, but may be shorter or longer depending upon the treatment approach.
How confidential are the sessions?
Information disclosed by patients is generally held as confidential except for disclosure required or permitted by law.
I tried therapy before and it didn't work, why should I try it again?
Sometimes the chemistry between the therapist and client or the therapeutic modality just isn't a good fit. Just as you sometimes have to switch medication, you may need to switch therapists or treatment modalities to achieve success.
Therapy works best when you are open to it and are actually willing to participate in your own healing.