How can Barbara Hoffman, LMFT counseling help?
- Barbara provides professional guidance and support that help couples and individuals deal with ongoing relationship issues and conflict. Counseling helps those struggling with specific issues by providing a safe and positive environment to express concerns, identify core issues, and learn and practice therapeutic solutions to their problems.
How many counseling sessions are required?
- The number of sessions varies for each couple and/or individual depending on their particular situation. Barbara will begin with an in-depth evaluation and discuss your primary goals that will help to determine the estimated number of sessions.
Should I attend the first couple or family counseling session alone?
- Barbara sometimes sees each individual in a couple for one individual session before seeing the couple together for the first time. She will determine what is needed in consulting with you to set up the counseling. Consult Barbara for professional guidance at (650) 625-8850 to find the best therapy program for you.
Is counseling confidential?
- Providing a safe and confidential environment for counseling is of utmost importance. Barbara Hoffman, LMFT counselors in Palo Alto are required by law to respect client confidentiality. In accordance with state and federal laws, a licensed therapist or counselor is required to disclose information regarding any individual who displays an intent to seriously harm themselves or if they are found to be abusing an elder, or planning on using their mental health history in a court of law.
What can I expect in our first session?
- Initial sessions generally last 1.5 to 2 hrs and are a time to get to know each other, go over initial paperwork concerning your mental health history, listen to your concerns and issues, and provide empathy and support. During this session we’ll decide if we both feel like this is a good match. We’ll also discuss fees and payment, and begin to talk about your hopes and goals for treatment. You’ll have an opportunity to experience and learn about my approach to therapy and decide if this is the kind of treatment you want.
How can I get the most out of my counseling?
- Once you (you and your partner) have decided to commit your time and finances to counseling, it will be important to be an active and willing participant in the work. There will most likely often be homework to do as a result of the work done in session. This will help you make gains in your recovery more quickly. It is also important, (and you will have an opportunity each session) to be honest and open with your therapist about what is working and what is not. This is a very valuable part of accomplishing your goals.