Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to have trauma to see you for therapy?
No, having a traumatic experience is not a requirement for establishing me as your therapist.
Even if you have experienced trauma, those experiences do not have to be a part of our therapy. However, unresolved trauma is likely to appear in many forms including skewed perspectives, low self-esteem, interpersonal conflicts, increased anxiousness, and hyper arousal. Given our clinician's experience and training, it is possible that we will inadvertently identify past issues during our work together even if you intend to conceal or avoid them.
What makes trauma therapy different from general therapy?
Trauma is a specialization in the field of psychotherapy. Like other specialities, trauma sessions focus on the client's experienced trauma. We do not relive trauma and you are not obligated to share any details of trauma with me. We take each session as it comes within your comfort level. Our clinicians have several years of experience working with clients who have significant trauma and have received supervision from other trauma professionals. Dr. Munchel is a member of the International Association of Trauma Professionals and carries certification through this entity.
How often do I attend sessions? Do I have to go the rest of my life?
Frequency of sessions is determined by client needs and abilities. Typically clients begin therapy once per week and gradually reduce frequency over time. To get the most out of therapy, I recommend clients attend sessions once per week or once every 2 weeks in the beginning. After your first session, a suggestion for frequency and type of therapy will be made and discussed with you.
Each individual's situation and experience is unique and therapy length varies from person to person. The length of therapy is determined by therapy goals that are created with you based on your desired outcomes. Our goal is to help you establish balance, as well as create new ways of handling life struggles and interpersonal conflicts. Further discussion of goals will occur after your first session and reviewed throughout the therapeutic relationship.
Therapy is helpful at any point in life and continued therapy is a great way to maintain wellness. However, a life-time commitment to any psychotherapy services if not required. We can further discuss the therapeutic relationship and benefits of therapy in session. In the meantime, if you have any concerns about therapy please contact us.