Dr. Paul Hewitt Psy.D.
LICENSED PSYCHOLOGIST
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: HOW LONG DOES A SESSION LAST?
A: Sessions average 55 minutes in length.
Q: WHAT WILL THE FIRST SESSION BE LIKE?
A: The first session provides the opportunity for you to share what is bringing you to therapy and to focus on aspects of your life you would like to explore as well as goals you would like to work toward together. From the beginning, I place emphasis on establishing the therapeutic relationship since it is absolutely essential for you to experience a sense of safety, openness, and connection.
Q: IS WHAT WE TALK ABOUT CONFIDENTIAL?
A: The law protects the confidentiality of all communications between a client and a psychotherapist. No information may be disclosed without prior written consent from you the client. However, there are a few exceptions to this rule that are required by law. This information is covered in your intake paperwork. I will be glad to discuss any questions you might have about this during your first appointment.
Q: HOW OFTEN DO YOU EXPECT TO SEE SOMEONE?
A: In order to establish a rhythm in which your concerns can be addressed on a regular basis, once a week is the recommended frequency. The frequency of sessions may change depending on your unique needs and concerns and where we are in the therapy process. For some clients, this could mean deciding to meet twice weekly to deepen the work or cutting back to every other week as therapy progresses and goals are met.
Q: HOW LONG DO YOU EXPECT THERAPY TO TYPICALLY LAST?
A: The length of psychotherapy varies from person to person. That being said, I believe that in order for psychotherapy to be effective beyond a more superficial level, it must generally span across a period of a person’s life. This can be as short as a few months or as long as several years depending on the kinds of issues, needs, and concerns that arise. It will be important to evaluate this question with you as your desires and needs may evolve over the course of therapy.
Q: WHAT TYPE OF THERAPY DO YOU PRACTICE?
A: I approach therapy primarily from a relational psychodynamic model, which addresses the underlying issues below a person’s problems and symptoms and seeks to bring about deeper, lasting change at a core level. To learn more about my approach, please see the “Treatment Approach” tab. In order to best meet the needs of my clients, I also incorporate aspects of other psychotherapy approaches including mindfulness, cognitive behavioral, existential, emotionally focused therapy, and internal family systems.
Q: WILL YOU PROVIDE REFERRALS IF YOU'RE NOT A GOOD FIT FOR ME OR IF I NEED OTHER SERVICES YOU CAN'T PROVIDE?
A: Certainly! After a few sessions, we will discuss if my style and approach are a good fit for you and your needs. If this is not the case, I am committed to helping you get connected with other local therapists, counselors, or psychiatrists who I think might best meet your expressed needs.
Q: DO YOU EVER RECOMMEND MEDICATIONS? DO YOU PRESCRIBE MEDITATIONS?
A: There are times when medications may be necessary for an individual to obtain relief from their problems. In these cases, I will refer that person to a psychiatrist for a medication evaluation. In these situations however, I do not view medication as a replacement for therapy but instead see it as something that is utilized concurrent with the therapy process. I do not prescribe medications in my practice as I am not licensed to do so.
Q: DO YOU OFFER VIRTUAL SESSIONS?
A: Yes, I offer both in-person and virtual (telehealth) sessions. I generally recommend meeting in person for our initial sessions (if possible) in order to better help us establish rapport. Additionally, meeting in-person provides a more immersive setting where we can better focus on your goals/needs. Once we have built a solid foundation, we can discuss transitioning to a hybrid or fully virtual approach that fits your schedule and lifestyle.