Understanding Therapy

Do you ever feel overwhelmed by your problems, relationships or life challenges? If you do, understand that you are not alone. Therapy could be a good choice for you. The process of therapy includes a wide spectrum of practices that help people live more productive, healthier and happier lives. Therapy is also called counseling, psychotherapy or talk-therapy. The process involves meeting with a therapist. Many types of therapists exist. Some of the more common ones include marriage and family therapists, social workers and psychologists. Psychologists receive one of the highest levels of education of all health care professionals.

Dr. Angela Bisignano, Psychologist

Psychologists aim to help people through alleviating distress, resolving conflicts and problematic behavior. They help people process feelings, thoughts, beliefs and relationship issues. Psychologists focus on how people and problems change over the course of the lifespan. They understand and pay attention to the intricacies of human dynamics. For instance, what makes people think, behave and feel the way that they do? Psychologists focus on the implications and importance that various influences might have on human experience, such as gender, race, religion, and culture.

Deciding to Begin Therapy

Deciding to begin therapy is a huge step toward becoming the healthiest version of yourself that you can be. It may be one of the most important steps you take in your life. Therapy can move you closer to living your best possible life – no matter what your past has been like or the current obstacles you may be experiencing. Through therapy you can change self-defeating and destructive patterns. You can process painful emotions, grow in self-awareness and enhance your relationships. You can learn new coping skills, techniques and strategies that can improve your communication, help to regulate your emotions and much more.

What to Expect

Dr. Bisignano’s initial contact with a potential client is usually through a phone conversation. Although someone may email her to begin, she likes to have a brief phone consultation. At that time we can make a determination if she is the best psychologist for you to work with. If Dr. Bisignano determines your needs might be better served somewhere else, she can provide referrals.

If you decide that you would like to continue with a first visit, Dr. Bisignano will schedule an initial session at her Palos Verdes or Manhattan Beach office. At that time she will ask you questions and make an assessment. You, too, will have an opportunity to ask her questions. Generally, in your second session you will discuss a treatment plan and goals for your therapy. You will then talk with Dr. Bisignano about the steps you will take in order to get there.

Confidentiality

One of the most important things to know before beginning therapy involves the issue of confidentiality. It is important that you feel safe and to know that everything you discuss is confidential. Dr. Bisignano wants her patients to feel comfortable sharing their story and their challenges with her. She wants you to be able to trust her in the therapeutic process.

Collaboration

Dr. Bisignano likes to work collaboratively with her clients, so she will want your input. In addition, she likes her clients to feel empowered and hopeful during the therapeutic process. She believes anyone can improve his or her mental health, well-being and lives.

Please see the side bar for additional information on Dr. Bisignano’s specialties.

 

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