Northwest Counseling Associates

Therapy is a form of interpersonal treatment for problems in life. It involves talking with a trained professional about conditions ranging from depression and anxiety to relationship conflicts and career frustrations. Therapy provides ways to express feelings, understand patterns of thinking, gain perspective on past events and current relationships, set goals, and clarify dreams for the future. Therapy can both alleviate pain and suffering and add meaning and richness to life.

Therapy can help people understand and reframe their problems and concerns. It can be used to teach specific emotional and social skills to help derive more satisfaction from life. A therapists office can be a sanctuary where you are free to express your private thoughts and struggles. Friends and family members can provide excellent emotional support, but a therapist can give you a trained and more impartial perspective on your life.

Sophisticated research studies on the effectiveness of psychotherapy have shown that it is indeed helpful for the vast majority of people who engage in it. These studies have shown that most people are psychologically healthier at the end of therapy when compared to those who had similar problems but did not engage in therapy.

A good fit between you and your therapist is crucial to your having a meaningful and successful experience. There is no one set criteria that describes great practitioners, and the best choice will reflect your specific circumstances, personality, and preferences. Some things to consider when choosing your therapist:

• Location: Proximity is important, perhaps more so than you think. If your therapist is too far away, you may find yourself not as committed to the process.

• Specialization: Find a professional who has treated people with similar problems to those you face.
  

• Comfort:  On your first visit ask yourself "Do we click?" "Do I feel a connection?" For you to reveal yourself you will need to feel safe and at ease. 

Sex therapy may be a beneficial treatment for a number of sex and relational issues.

• Decreased/Increased Desire for Intimacy
• Mismatched Desire or Interest in Sexual Intimacy in Couples
• Infidelity in Marriage
  
• Sexual Performance Skills
• Sex Education
  
• Decreased/Lack of Orgasm or Satisfaction
  
• Sexual Pain Disorders
• Sexual Orientation/Identity
• Medical Conditions Resulting in Sexual Dissatisfaction
• Erectile Dysfunction
• Early Ejaculation
  
• Sexual Trauma
• Sexual Compulsivity
• Sexual Fetish
  

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