I’ve never talked to anyone. I’m used to handling things on my own. Aren’t people who go to therapy weak?
Not at all. Knowing your personal limitations and asking for help is actually a sign of strength. You may be dealing with a crisis or noticing destructive emotions or behavior patterns in your life. People usually seek therapy when their strengths and regular ways of coping are not working anymore. A mental health professional can help you approach your situation in a new way– teach you new skills, gain different perspectives, listen to you without judgment or expectations. Furthermore, therapy is completely confidential. At Tampa Bay DBT we will help you identify the underlying cause of your difficulties and provide personalized solutions for effective and sustainable change.
Do you work with children?
We provide therapy to adolescents and adults, ages 14 and up. On a case-by-case basis we will work with youth under age 14, please contact us directly to discuss. The family environment is a major contributing factor to adolescents and young adults and it is highly likely that the parents or guardians will be asked to participate in treatment. Both of our specialty programs have a parent program component that is mandatory if youth are involved. If you are enrolled in either of these programs, we also offer parent phone coaching to work through difficult situations. As we learn more about your family dynamic we may recommend that, in order to see the changes you desire, a parent enters therapy themselves and/or that the entire family attend sessions. When it comes to adolescents and young adults, sometimes it takes the whole family tribe committed to making healthier choices.
Do you prescribe medication?
No, we do not have a psychiatrist on staff and we do not prescribe medication. Our work together is designed to explore the root of the issue, dig deep into your behavior and teach strategies that can help you accomplish your personal and/or relational goals. Medication can be effective and is sometimes needed in conjunction with therapy. We are happy to collaborate with your prescriber and/or refer you to one if it is recommended.
How does it work? What do I have to do in sessions?
During a therapy session you meet one-on-one with a clinician for 45-60 minutes. Our sessions tend to be active in conversation and learning new skills. Your regular attendance, active participation and completion of homework is crucial to your success. After all, we only see each other for a session once or twice a week. It’s the work you do outside of our sessions that will really help you see your personal growth and development.
How long will it take?
Honestly, the answer to this question depends on the problems you are experiencing and the type of therapy you participate in. Some people are able to make considerable changes in as few as 10-15 weeks. However, many of the people we work with at Tampa Bay DBT experience hard-to-treat symptoms and behaviors. They may have tried several other types of treatment or therapists before walking through our doors. For more chronic or complex difficulties, our clients are in treatment between 9 months and 2 years.