Answers to what we hear most about counseling and the Independent Living Program.
Meeting with a trained, licensed mental health provider on a regular basis to develop and reach your goals. Sessions are usually held once a week or as needed.
Counseling addresses a wide range of issues, including anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship problems, hyper-sexuality, stress management, anger, grief, communication issues, and behavioral concerns. It's a safe space to explore emotions and develop strategies for handling difficulties.
If you feel overwhelmed by something in your life, whether it feels big or seems small, counseling could be beneficial. Working with a counselor may help you process through things, gain insight into your reactions to emotional situations, or better understand why you respond to things the way you do.
While the terms are often used interchangeably, counseling typically focuses on short-term support for specific issues, while therapy may involve deeper exploration over a longer period. Both aim to help individuals improve their mental and emotional health.
During your first session, your therapist will go over confidentiality and review some of the things you might start working together to address. The counselor will ask questions to understand your concerns, goals, and background — it's a chance to establish rapport, discuss your situation, and set a plan for future sessions based on your unique needs.
Most sessions last between 45 and 60 minutes, depending on your needs and the type of therapy.
Yes, all sessions are confidential, meaning your personal information and what you discuss with your therapist are protected by law. Your therapist will explain in depth the few rare exceptions to confidentiality, and will make sure all of your questions are answered at your first session.
The number of sessions depends on the nature of the issues being addressed and your personal progress. Some clients may benefit from short-term counseling, while others may choose to engage in therapy over a longer period.
"OT2GO Innovation to Elevation Daily Living helped me become more mature and independent. Once I aged out of care, I became a Youth Advocate with the program — a recent graduate giving back to the next youth coming through."
"I lived in group homes for years, and never learned how to drive or obtain a driver's license. At I2E Living, I received driving lessons and got my driver's license."
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