Questions worth asking before the first session.

Not at all. People who ask for help know when they need it and have the ability to reach out. Everyone needs help now and then. You already have strengths you’ve used before; for whatever reason they aren’t working right now. Maybe the problem feels so overwhelming that it’s hard to reach them. In our work together, I’ll help you identify what those strengths are and how to use them again in what’s happening now.

The difference is between someone who can do something and someone who has the training and experience to do it professionally. A mental health professional can help you approach your situation in a new way: teach you new skills, offer different perspectives, listen without judgment or expectations, and help you listen to yourself. Therapy is also completely confidential, so you won’t have to worry about others “knowing your business.” And if you’ve been confiding in a friend or relative, there’s a risk that once you feel better you start avoiding that person because they remind you of a hard time.

Medication alone can’t solve every issue. What medication does is treat symptoms. Our work together is designed to explore the root of the issue, look closely at patterns, and teach strategies that help you reach your personal and relationship goals. Medication can be effective and is sometimes needed alongside therapy.

Because everyone has different issues and goals, therapy looks different for each person. I tailor my approach to your specific needs. Expect a real conversation: I ask questions, I share what I’m noticing, and I give you practical feedback. You’ll never sit in silence wondering what I think.

It honestly depends. Everyone’s circumstances are unique, and the length of therapy depends on your goals, your commitment, and what brought you in. Some couples come for a focused package of three to ten sessions; others prefer to pay as they go and decide along the way. We’ll talk about a realistic plan in the first session.

I’m so glad you’re committed to that. Your active participation is crucial. We only see each other for about an hour a week, so the work you do between sessions, practicing new skills and noticing old patterns, is where most of the growth happens.

If you’re concerned about your relationship and you would both like to work with me, I start with both of you together. Afterward, if one of you would like to continue in individual sessions, I can work with just one of you. It isn’t helpful to move from individual work into couples work with the same therapist, because it can create trust issues for the partner who joins later.

Day and evening appointments are available, and weekend times can be arranged by request. For individuals or couples in crisis, I do my best to find an appointment within 48 hours, schedule permitting.

You can pay session by session (a longer first visit, then 60-minute sessions) or choose a couples package. Call (402) 306-4842 for current fees, and Cindy will explain everything up front so there are no surprises.

Positive Beginnings Therapy Center is at 12305 Gold Street, Omaha, NE 68144, in West Omaha near 123rd Street and West Center Road. It’s an easy drive from Millard, Elkhorn, Papillion, La Vista, Ralston and the rest of the metro.

If you are in danger or thinking about harming yourself, call or text 988 (the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline) or call 911 right away. Then, when you’re safe, call my office and I’ll do my best to see you quickly.