Counseling

What is counseling?

Counseling, or psychotherapy, involves meeting with a therapist to resolve problematic behaviors, thoughts, feelings, or relationship issues that might be preventing you from living a healthy, balanced life.

Mental health problems such as depression and anxiety, or conflicts within your interpersonal or familial relationships can negatively affect your health, resulting in high levels of stress, sleep disturbances, or reliance on illicit substances. 

Counseling introduces you to healthy coping methods and communication skills. Using these tools, you can change self-destructive behaviors and habits, resolve painful feelings, and improve your relationships.  

Are there different types of counseling?

Dr. Ziering offers counseling onsite through Alex Wieselman, MA, Ed.S. Alex founded Bedminster Far Hills Counseling Center, LLP, in 1991 and has received recognition from Psychology Today and The American Board of Professional Psychological Psychology.

Dr. Ziering works in coordination with Alex to ensure each patient receives a comprehensive evaluation. Together, they provide mind-body medicine. Throughout your counseling treatment, Dr. Ziering and Alex consult together. This allows you to get the most diverse perspectives while receiving holistic, integrative care.

Alex provides several types of counseling, including:

Individual counseling

Individual counseling addresses mental health problems and emotional challenges that are unique to you. This includes a variety of issues, including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), substance abuse, and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD).

Family and marriage counseling

Family and couples counseling works to improve your romantic and familial relationships. It provides tools and information that improve communication and listening skills while establishing trust, respect, and understanding.

Counseling for members of the LGBTQI community

Due to stigma and a lack of access to compassionate care, members of the LGBTQI community are more likely to experience depression, anxiety, and substance abuse. LGBTQI counseling provides an open, honest, and respectful environment to discuss topics such as gender identity, sexual violence, and sexual orientation.

What will happen at my first counseling session?

At your first counseling session, Alex spends time getting to know you. He asks you about your individual needs, including the issues you’d like to address in treatment and what you’ve done to manage your mental health in the past.

To gain additional insights, Alex might also ask you several questions, including:

• Have you attended therapy in the past?
• What is your home life like?
• What do you hope to get from therapy?
• Does your family history include any mental illness?

After gathering all of the necessary information, Alex develops a custom counseling plan that aligns with your individual needs. Ultimately, the goal of treatment is to boost your confidence and communication skills, while improving your overall quality of life.

To explore counseling further, schedule an appointment at the practice of Thomas S. Ziering, MD. Call the office and speak with a staff member or book a consultation online today.