Frequently Asked Questions
About Therapy/Counseling
What is therapy/
counseling?
Counseling is a professional, collaborative relationship in which a trained mental health provider helps individuals, couples, or groups explore emotional, psychological, or behavioral concerns. It offers a safe, confidential space to process experiences, gain insight, and develop strategies for growth, healing, and resilience.
How can therapy help me?
​Therapy can help people in profound and practical ways. Whether you're navigating a crisis, healing from trauma, bolstering your recovery or simply seeking greater clarity and connection in your life, a strong therapeutic relationship with a counselor can be life changing. Your counselor will help you reach your goals and encourage you to become the best version of yourself.
Do I need counseling?
Deciding whether to start counseling is a deeply personal choice, and there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, stuck in unhelpful patterns, struggling with past experiences, or simply seeking support in navigating a transition, therapy can provide a safe, structured space to process. You don’t need to have a crisis to benefit from therapy; a desire for personal development is a valid enough reason to seek support. If you're unsure, a consultation can help you explore whether counseling feels right for you. Whatever your journey, you are not alone. Schedule a consultation here.
How long does therapy take?
Therapy is a highly individualized process, and the length of treatment varies depending on your goals, challenges, and progress. Some people find relief and clarity within a few sessions, while others benefit from ongoing support over months or even years. Short-term therapy can help with specific concerns, while longer-term counseling allows for deeper emotional work and lasting transformation. Your therapist will collaborate with you to assess your needs and adjust the approach to support meaningful progress. Therapy is not about a set timeline, it’s about creating a space for growth that feels right for you.
What if I don't want to talk about something?
In therapy, you set the pace. There is no pressure to discuss anything before you're ready. Your therapist will respect your boundaries and help you build trust and safety in the process. If a topic feels overwhelming, sessions can focus on other goals, skill-building or self-awareness until you feel comfortable exploring deeper concerns. Healing happens at your speed, and therapy is always a space where your choices are honored.
What about confidentiality?
​What you discuss in sessions is protected by privacy laws, meaning your therapist cannot disclose information without your written consent. However, there are some exceptions. if there is a risk of harm to yourself or others, or in cases of abuse or neglect, therapists are legally required to take steps to ensure safety.
Are there different types of therapy?
Yes! There are various approaches designed to support different needs and experiences. Some therapies focus on thought patterns, like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), while others emphasize emotional processing, such as trauma-informed approaches like EMDR or Internal Family Systems (IFS). Mindfulness-based therapy helps with self-awareness and stress reduction, while somatic therapy integrates body-based techniques to address trauma. Your therapist will help determine which approach best fits your goals, ensuring you receive the support that feels right for you. Check out our Counseling page to learn more.
About the Counseling Process
What is the first step in getting started with therapy?
The first step is simply reaching out. You can call 602-726-9997, email admin@desertoakcounseling.com, or fill out our online contact form so we can connect you with a therapist. From there, you’ll typically schedule an initial consultation or intake session, where you can discuss your needs, ask questions, and see if the therapist feels like a good fit. You don’t need to have everything figured out, just the willingness to begin.
What is the intake (first) session like?
During this first 55-minute session, you'll be invited to share what brings you to therapy, any goals or concerns you have, and relevant background information that helps your therapist understand your unique experience. It’s a chance to ask questions, explore expectations, and get a feel for the therapeutic process.
What do subsequent sessions look like?
Every therapy session is a personalized experience, tailored to your unique needs and goals. Typically, sessions last around 55 minutes and offer a safe, confidential space to explore your thoughts, emotions, and challenges. Depending on your needs, a session may involve open conversation, guided exercises, mindfulness techniques, or skill-building to enhance emotional regulation and coping strategies. Each meeting is a step toward understanding yourself more fully—whether you're processing past experiences, strengthening relationships, or working toward personal goals.
What if I feel I'm not getting results?
Therapy is a process, and while some people notice shifts early on, others may take longer to see change. Progress in counseling isn’t always linear; it can involve deep internal work, subtle shifts in patterns, or simply building trust with your therapist. If you’re feeling uncertain about your progress, we encourage open conversation. Your therapist can work with you to reassess goals, adapt approaches, or explore what might be getting in the way. Your voice matters, and we’re here to walk alongside you at your pace.
How will we measure success?
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Will my therapist give me advice?
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Will my therapist prescribe me medication?
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