About Counseling and Therapy

Like many people, do you feel overwhelmed with challenging circumstances, painful feelings, difficult relationships, family problems, loneliness, depression, anxiety, fears, stress, grief, loss, life transitions, or hopelessness? Have you lost touch with -- or worse yet, never really known -- how it feels to be truly alive? Do you long for meaningful connection with others, and to enjoy inner peace? There IS hope! Therapy might just be the answer.

Are Counseling, Therapy, And Psychotherapy The Same?

The words Counseling, Therapy, and Psychotherapy mean essentially the same thing. They all describe the interactive process of emotional healing and personal growth that is facilitated by a licensed professional who may be referred to as either Counselor, Therapist, or Psychotherapist. The word Psychotherapy literally means therapy that deals with the "psyche," or "mind." It's just a fancy way of saying Counseling or Therapy. Some people prefer one or two of these words, while other people use all three. Regardless of what you call it, the therapeutic process is often EXTREMELY HELPFUL and DEEPLY REWARDING! What you call this special process is really a matter of what makes you feel most comfortable. Here on my website, I use all three of these words interchangeably.

Is Therapy Different Than Talking To Family And Friends?

If you've ever talked about your personal problems with family and friends, you've probably found that while they might mean well, they often don't really understand, don't know what to say, and don't know how to help. This may leave you feeling thankful for their attempt, but sadly, still suffering inside, alone. Fortunately, therapy IS different. Professional insight, tools, and guidance sometimes really can be the difference that makes the difference. Therapy is a powerful, effective process of healing, growth, and wellness that only occurs over time through sessions with a good therapist.

Therapy, Counseling,
And Psychotherapy for
Couples, Relationship,
Marriage, Marital,
Individual, Family,
Depression, Anxiety, and More.
Serving San Fernando Valley,
Encino, Tarzana,
Sherman Oaks, Van Nuys,
Studio City, Burbank,
North Hollywood, Glendale,
Woodland Hills,
Calabasas, Westlake,
Canoga Park, Northridge,
And Surrounding Areas

Brett Richards, M.A., MFT

Therapist, Counselor,

Psychotherapist

Is Therapy Just For “Weak And Crazy People"?

Therapy is NOT just for "weak and crazy people." The truth is, most people who come to therapy have been or are under very difficult circumstances that would bother almost anyone, and have strength, courage, and a desire to heal and improve their lives. In addition, therapy can be more than just a last response to life's problems when nothing else works. In fact, because of its Healing and Personal Growth benefits, therapy is actually An Important Part Of A Good Health And Wellness Program that can benefit almost anyone, whether you're struggling with deeper issues and challenges, have just minor issues to resolve, or are doing well and want to advance even further.

Does Counseling and Therapy Really Work?

Many scientific studies have shown the effectiveness of counseling and therapy in improving quality of life. According to U.S. News And World Report, a landmark Consumer Reports study concluded that people benefited very substantially from counseling and therapy. In particular, this study and many others concluded that, while the therapist's professional therapy skills are very important, the key to successful therapy is the connected, trusting therapeutic relationship that develops between client and therapist. This is why I place such high importance on supportive, understanding, customized care, and why I have been so effective in helping a wide range of people to live happier, more satisfying lives.

What Exactly IS Therapy?

Therapy is professional interpersonal health care treatment for problems in living. Therapy promotes personal growth and wellness, can alleviate pain and suffering, and can add meaning and richness to your life. Therapy involves coming to my comfortable, peaceful office, located in Encino in the San Fernando Valley, for weekly sessions and talking with me and my expertise about issues you would like help in resolving, and personal changes and goals you would like to accomplish, but which you've had trouble doing on your own. Regardless of your situation, therapy is a wonderful opportunity to learn about yourself, other people, and life in general. Therapy is also a wonderful opportunity to work toward healing and resolving your personal issues with my supportive, professional guidance so you can bring forth your potential to live a more enjoyable, more meaningful life.

What Will We Do In Our Therapy Sessions?

In the comforts of my peaceful office, located in Encino in the San Fernando Valley, our sessions will be SAFE, CARING, AND CONFIDENTIAL so you can freely express yourself. With my insight, understanding, and support, and my focus on SOLUTIONS AND RESULTS, I will help you explore your feelings, thoughts, and behavior so you arrive at an open, clear level of awareness; identify your issues and strengths; and work to create positive, lasting changes in your life. I will also help you gain perspective on past experiences and current relationships, learn helpful skills for effective living, envision your hopes and dreams, and clarify meaningful goals for the future and how to pursue their accomplishment. Together, we'll start where you are today, build on what's healthy, identify and resolve your limiting issues, and nurture positive qualities to help unlock your potential for the kind of enjoyable life you deserve!

What’s The First Step I Need To Take To Get Started?

Self-improvement in therapy is a wise investment in your most valuable asset -- you. And, the rewards can be more than worth it! For many people, choosing a therapist is very personal. To help you make the right choice, I give a CONFIDENTIAL INITIAL CONSULTATION AT NO CHARGE, with absolutely no obligation. I offer this special consultation either by phone, or in my comfortable office located in Encino, which is also very close to Sherman Oaks, Studio City, Tarzana, Woodland Hills, Canoga Park, Northridge, Granada Hills, and the entire San Fernando Valley. You’ll also find that I’m very down-to-earth, understanding, and easy to talk to. In your consultation, you can describe to me your problems and goals, ask all of your questions, and get to know me, and I will answer your questions and tell you how I can help you. Most therapists bill for this, but I don't, because I believe you should be given the chance to consult with me at no charge before you begin therapy. I applaud your courage, and welcome your phone call or email so that together, through my helpful counseling and therapy services, we can start creating positive, lasting changes in your life.

All images and content, Copyright © 2007-2010, Brett Richards, M.A., MFT, all rights reserved except where trademark and copyright is held by previous owner.

Disclaimer: This website is for informational purposes only. It should not be considered as psychotherapeutic advice, and should not be used as a substitute for
psychotherapeutic treatment with Brett Richards, M.A., MFT, or another qualified mental health professional.