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Welcome to the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) page. Below, we will try to answer the most common questions our visitors may have. If you find that your question is not answered on this page, please E-mail your question to info@faithwinters.com.
Who are all these different kinds of mental health people?
Shrink, Psychologist, Head doctor, Psychiatrist, Mental Health Counselor, Mental Health Therapist, Mental Health Practitioner, Mental health professional, Psychotherapist, Psychotherapy, Marriage and Family Counselor, Marriage and Family Therapist, Professional Counselor, Psychoanalyst, Therapist, Counselor, Pastoral Counselor, Social Worker and Analyst.
To sort out the list a bit:
The main mental health professions asked about are: Psychiatrist, Psychologist, . Social Worker, Marriage and Family Therapist and Professional Counselor.
The way to describe some of what these professionals do is: therapy, counseling, . talk therapy, or psychotherapy.
The general way to refer to these professionals is: Mental health professional, . Mental health practitioner (slang: shrink, analyst, or head doctor, doc, Dr.).
Which of these mental health professionals do you need?
If you are seeking talk therapy any of these professions has individuals trained and experienced in talk therapy. Where they differ is in their specialty; in general: A psychiatrist is a medical doctor who has mental health training and specializes in the way the brain and medications interact. A psychologist specializes in testing and assessment of brain function (i.e. learning disabilities, etc.) A social worker specializes how organizations and families function in society (how to get the agency help needed, etc.) a marriage and family counselor specializes in working with couples and family relationships, a professional counselor specializes in general talk therapy. You should ask whether the mental health professional you choose has the experience and credentials for your specific needs. For a further discussion of the titles and phraseology used by gradate level therapists see The Titles and Descriptions Used by Mental Health Professionals
How long will you be in therapy?
We make the decision about length of treatment together. Often I will have a rough idea after a session or two of how long it might take for you to reach the goals that you set. Some clients remain in therapy for just a brief time, six to eight sessions. Other clients who have had long-standing problems may choose to stay in therapy for many months.
What happens in Counseling?
Generally we meet together once a week for about 50 minutes. During that time the complete focus is on you, what is going on in your life and what will make your life better. I will help you to build insight, to gain understanding and to learn to respond in stronger, healthier ways. I often will suggest things you can think about or do between our sessions for your continued growth.
How will you know if therapy is helping?
Most clients notice a decrease in their symptoms, including relief from distress, better decision-making abilities, improved relationships and new coping skills, within three to four weeks of therapy if they have been faithfully attending sessions and doing the suggested assignments between sessions on a daily basis.
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