Guidelines to Individual Therapy

    Each person is unique. That is a simple yet profound statement and the central focus of individual therapy. Self-help books can only take you so far because of that reason, one size does not fit all. A healthy "do" list no matter how rational or useful is generated from an approach to a problem not customized to an individual. The counseling relationship provides the environment where the individual is central, not the "problem."

    Call the office number (818) 758-9933 and let Dr. Alderman know that you are considering counseling. At that time you may discuss your individual questions, availability, fees and any other matters that will help you decide if you want to take the next step and make an initial appointment.

    The initial Appointment deals with your concerns, clarifies what you want to accomplish, change, decide, cope with, etc. There is a part of it that is like an interview to complete the picture of where you have been and how you approach your life (solve problems, deal with emotions, make decisions). It encompasses what you feel are your strengths, weaknesses, and unique style. It examines your current hopes, fears, and challenges. It is an overall snapshot of what's going on at the moment, not a carving in stone. It's useful for the next step - the counseling plan.

    The counseling plan gives the client and therapist a blueprint from which to proceed. This is a working plan that helps address initial concerns and measures the progress while keeping the focus. Feel free to ask about specifics as they apply to you. Within individual sessions, changes can be made to keep the plan working for you.