Brooke K. Magers, PsyD, ABPP

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With no two therapies looking alike, defining the experience of therapy can be challenging. Nevertheless, my approach to therapy is grounded in psychoanalytic methods, which allows me to give some basic expectations about the therapeutic process. 

At the beginning of therapy, goals are often discussed, though they often shift over time. While much needed symptom relief often occurs early in treatment, other issues and feelings can arise that require further exploration. It is not uncommon for people to be in treatment for a longer period of time to work though such concerns and gain an even deeper understanding of themselves. 

 

It is also important to stress that most emotional problems begin in childhood and are reinforced over decades.  As a result, when we are adults we tend to cling to our feelings and beliefs about the world, no matter how problematic and ineffective. Therapy helps untangle this chaos and confusion to make space for growth, better life choices, and feeling more comfortable with yourself.   

 

Although people seek out therapy for many reasons, some common concerns include: not feeling like yourself or as if in a, “funk;” anxiety; sadness/depression; loneliness; difficulties with life transitions; relationship concerns; feeling blocked or unmotivated; loss/grief.