Tara Dubrow

How long does it take to find the right therapist?

The time it takes to find the right therapist can vary from person to person. The sales cycle tends to vary from person to person. Really, how long some one takes to make the initial contact with a therapist often depends on how acute the situation is.  When a crisis situation is at hand, a patient can be looking for immediate intervention.  With what might be perceived as a less pressing problem, such as anxiety or long standing relationship issues, a person may take awhile to take the steps toward initial contact.  The answer is that some try and find a therapist immediately, while others may take weeks to months.

 

How does the patient originally take action to call/email you? Is it voluntary or usually a push from a family member, friend, etc?

A person can be self referred and come in voluntarily. Additionally, family members, friends and loved ones also encourage that one come to therapy. Other health professionals, as well, can  recommend psychotherapy, such as family doctors, psychiatrists who do not practice ongoing therapy, even naturopaths/homeopaths and physiotherapists can advise a patient to seek therapy.

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The most common objections people have before coming in or holding them back from calling?

There are many reasons holding a person back from seeking therapy.  The key deterrent (as recently published in a British survey and quoted in Toronto's Globe and Mail on March 4, 2014) is the stigma around mental health. Shame and embarrassment play a part; fear surrounding disclosing a mental health condition; confidentiality concerns; a belief that the individual alone can manage the problem; thinking they are not in need of help; financial concerns; worries about devoting time; minimizing the gravity of the issue; lack of belief in the process; little or no willingness and low motivation. The delay that occurs from not seeking therapy prolongs recovery and often results in very serious mental health and other outcomes.

 

Common benefits to the patient in seeing you as opposed to some other form of therapy or neglect?

What I offer is therapy plus. I help individuals, family members and loved ones who are struggling with crisis. I facilitate navigating and accessing what is needed to manage distress in the most effective ways possible.  I also help those experiencing non-crisis situations.  In total, I act as a resource to individuals, family members and other professionals.

I am dedicated to help and facilitate relief. In therapy with me you will experience an attentive and empathic listener. I offer a safe and confidential atmosphere above all, in addition to a compassionate and understanding environment.  But, I also bring a practical approach that enhances coping.  I am willing to confront and engage in the difficult conversations when necessary, while respecting a person's need to proceed at the pace and level at which they are comfortable.  My style is approachable, down to earth and professional.  I hold a law degree, owned and operated my own business and have dealt with personal and professional challenges. I value health and wellness and promote positive lifestyle choices. I see mind, body and spirit as intrinsically related.  Drawing upon my vast experience, I help people move through life's difficulties through the art of psychotherapy.

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