Psychotherapy varies depending on many factors, such as the personality and style of both therapist and client, and the particular problems the client brings. There are a number of approaches to and techniques within psychotherapy: for example, psychodynamic psychotherapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy, problem solving, family therapy, role-playing, art therapy and hypnosis are a few approaches that I use at different times, for different purposes.

Psychotherapy is not like treatment with a medical doctor, as it requires a very active effort from the client as well as the psychotherapist in order to be successful. Psychotherapy is ideally a collaborative journey between the client and therapist in which both decide the mode of travel, and stopping points along the way, and in which both have the general goal of promoting the client's psychological well-being, and increasing the his/her happiness and satisfaction with life. 

The therapeutic relationship is unique in the world of relationships.  Although I as therapist may come to know a considerable amount about you, the reverse is usually not true. I disclose my own experiences when I feel such communication will be helpful  (and check with you to see if such self-disclosures have been helpful). This one-way street allows us to focus on your directions and your work, and allows us to learn things about you that we might not in an ordinary social situation. Psychotherapy occurs within conditions, contracts and boundaries, making possible a safe environment in which open, honest communication can occur. 

Psychotherapy has benefits and risks. Risks sometimes include experiencing unexpected, uncomfortable levels of feelings like sadness, guilt, anxiety, anger and frustration, loneliness, and helplessness. Psychotherapy can and often does involve your recalling unpleasant aspects of your history. It is important for you to keep your therapist informed of your general emotional state and of your reactions to the therapy, however slight.

Despite the risks, psychotherapy has been shown to benefit those who undertake it. Although there is no guarantee, psychotherapy often leads to a significant reduction of feelings of distress, improved relationships, the lifting of depression, an increased understanding of your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, and resolutions to specific problems you brought to therapy.