To answer everyone’s first question:
The dog in the above picture is not Dr. Arthur’s dog. His dog is right next to the following question and her name is Chloe! Unfortunately, she is not trained as a service dog and will not be in your session.
On the fence about going to therapy?
Dr. Arthur offers a free phone or text consultation and he encourages anyone who has questions about therapy or himself to reach out and ask. There is no obligation to start therapy and it’s a wonderful way of getting questions answered. Since a consultation is not a formal establishment of the doctor-patient relationship, no official records are kept. It’s simply a way to get to know Dr. Arthur, his personality, and style of therapy.
The Duration and Frequency of Therapy.
Clinically, Dr. Arthur has experience in working emotional disorders (such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, etc…), eating disorders, and substance abuse especially in exposure-based and cognitive-behavioral therapies. His specialization is in the areas of self-esteem development, positive body image, assertiveness, and confidence development in both adults and teenagers. Dr. Arthur generally incorporates therapy with social skills and emotional regulation skills into his sessions to maximize the therapy gains.
However, Dr. Arthur does not necessarily believe that therapy needs to be months or years. Often, most problems and situations can be significantly reduced in 60-90 days. After the symptoms have been diminished, Dr. Arthur will explore with the client if they want to “dig deeper” and explore the origins and “root cause” of a problem. However, deeper exploration is not always necessary or needed.
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. Everyone needs help now and then. People who ask for help, are doing something that will benefit themselves in the long run. Life is about knowing when to have the courage to reach out and seek support. In our work together, I’ll help you explore and identify your strengths and abilities and then help you to maximize them.
What’s the difference between talking to you or my best friend or family?
The difference is between someone who can “just talk it over” and someone who has the training and experience to provide an unbiased and give research-based guidance to your decision making. A psychologist can help you approach your situation in a new way– teach you new skills, help you gain different perspectives, listen to you without judgment, and help you understand yourself. Furthermore, counseling is completely confidential. You won’t have to worry about others “knowing your business.” Lastly, if your situation provokes a strong negative emotion, and you’ve been confiding in a friend or family member, there is the risk that once you are feeling better, you may start avoiding that person so you aren’t reminded of this difficult time in your life.
Why shouldn’t I just take medication?
Medication can be effective but it alone cannot solve all issues. Sometimes medication is needed in conjunction with counseling. In fact, our best evidence suggests that, for MOST individuals and situations, talk therapy and medications working together is best. Our therapy together is designed to explore and unpack the problems you are experiencing and expand on your strengths. This can help you accomplish your personal, professional, and relationship goals. If you have a prescribing physician, Dr. Arthur will coordinate your care with your physician.
How does it work? What do I have to do in sessions?
Because each person has different issues and goals for therapy. Sessions will be different depending on who you are. Dr. Arthur custom tailors a therapeutic approach to the client’s specific needs and goals while integrating the client’s feedback into his treatment plan.
How long will it take?
Everyone’s circumstances are unique to them and the length of therapy is designed to allow you to accomplish your goals. However, Dr. Arthur does not believe that every client needs “long term” therapy. For a better understanding of Dr. Arthur’s approach to the duration of therapy, click here.