Frequently Asked Questions

I've never been to therapy before. What if I don't know what to say?

You don't need to have everything figured out before you begin. Many people come to therapy for the first time unsure of what to expect or even where to begin. That's completely okay.

Your therapist will meet you where you are, help you identify what's bringing you to therapy, and create a comfortable space to explore your experiences, concerns, and goals. Therapy is a collaborative process, and we'll move at a pace that feels right for you.

I've always handled things on my own. Does asking for help mean I'm weak?

Absolutely not. Reaching out for support isn't a sign of weakness—it's an opportunity to better understand yourself and develop new ways of navigating life's challenges.

You already have strengths, abilities, and experiences that have helped you get where you are. Therapy can help you recognize those strengths, build upon them, and develop tools to move forward with greater confidence and clarity.

What's the difference between talking to a therapist and talking to a friend or family member?

Friends and family can provide invaluable love, support, and encouragement. Therapy offers something different.

A therapist brings professional training and experience to help you explore your thoughts, emotions, behaviors, and relationships from a different perspective. Therapy provides a confidential, nonjudgmental space where the focus is entirely on you.

You don't have to worry about protecting someone else's feelings, being judged, or having your experiences affect the relationship. Instead, you have the opportunity to be honest, explore difficult topics, develop new skills, and gain insight into patterns that may be getting in the way of the life or relationships you want.

Do I need therapy if I'm already taking medication?

Medication and therapy can serve different purposes, and for some people, they work well together.

Medication may help manage certain symptoms, while therapy can provide an opportunity to explore the thoughts, emotions, behaviors, relationships, and experiences underlying your concerns. Therapy can also help you develop practical coping strategies and skills for managing challenges in everyday life.

There isn't one right approach for everyone. Your treatment should be based on your individual needs and goals. If you're taking medication, we encourage you to discuss any questions or concerns about your medication with your prescribing provider.

What actually happens during therapy?

There's no single way therapy has to look.

Because every person comes to therapy with different experiences, needs, and goals, we tailor our approach to you. Depending on what you're working through, sessions may involve talking through current challenges, exploring patterns and experiences, learning practical coping strategies, developing greater self-awareness, or working through past experiences that continue to affect you today.

Most importantly, therapy is a collaborative process. You and your therapist will work together to determine what feels meaningful and helpful for you.

How long will I need to be in therapy?

There's no set timeline for therapy. Everyone's circumstances, goals, and needs are different.

Some people benefit from short-term therapy focused on a specific concern, while others find that longer-term therapy provides the opportunity for deeper exploration and growth. Your therapist will work with you to regularly evaluate your progress and determine what approach makes sense for you.

Therapy isn't about staying in treatment forever—it's about getting the support you need to move toward the goals that matter to you.

How can I get the most out of therapy?

You don't have to be perfect—or have all the answers—to benefit from therapy.

The most important thing is to come as you are and be willing to engage in the process. Being open and honest with your therapist, asking questions, practicing new skills, and reflecting on what you discover between sessions can all contribute to meaningful progress.

At the same time, therapy should fit into your life—not become another source of pressure. We will work together to find an approach that feels realistic, manageable, and meaningful for you.

How do I know which therapist is right for me?

Our therapists have different areas of expertise, experiences, and therapeutic styles. We encourage you to explore our therapist profiles to learn more about each clinician and find someone whose approach feels like a good fit.

If you're unsure who would be the best match, reach out to us. We're happy to help you find the right starting point.

Do you offer telehealth?

We offer both telehealth and in-person appointments. We can discuss which format may work best for your needs and circumstances.

Do you work with LGBTQIA+ and neurodivergent clients?

Yes. Illumination Counseling Services is committed to providing affirming, inclusive care. We work with LGBTQIA+ clients and neurodivergent individuals in a supportive environment where you can be yourself without having to explain, defend, or hide who you are.

What if I've had a bad experience with therapy before?

You're not alone. A previous therapy experience that didn't feel helpful doesn't mean therapy can't work for you.

The relationship between you and your therapist matters. Our goal is to create a space where you feel heard, respected, and comfortable being honest about what you need. Finding the right therapist can take time, and it's okay to look for someone who feels like the right fit.

Therapy is a partnership. You don't have to know exactly where you're going when you begin—we'll work together to understand where you are, identify where you'd like to go, and find a path forward that feels right for you.