Frequent questions about therapy

What is therapy?

Every therapy session is unique and tailored to fit your specific needs and goals. It is standard for you and the psychologist to discuss the primary issues and concerns in your life during therapy sessions.

It is common to schedule a series of weekly sessions, where each session lasts around sixty minutes. However, this can be more or less frequent, depending on each individual preference and need. Therapy can be short-term, focusing on a specific issue, or longer-term, addressing more complex issues or ongoing personal growth. There may be times when you are asked to take certain actions outside of the therapy sessions, such as reading a relevant book or keeping records to track certain behaviors. It is important to process what has been discussed and integrate it into your life between sessions.

I can usually handle my problems. Do I really need therapy?

Everyone goes through challenging situations in life, and while you may have successfully navigated many difficulties you’ve faced, there’s nothing wrong with seeking out extra support when you need it. Having enough self-awareness to realize when you need a helping hand is admirable. By taking responsibility and accepting where you’re at in life, you’re making a commitment to change the situation by seeking therapy. Therapy provides long-lasting benefits and support so that you’re better equipped to manage problems.

Can therapy really help in my situation?

No matter what you’re going through, therapy can be helpful. There are countless reasons why people seek the support of a psychologist. Mental health concerns affect millions of people throughout the world, but help is available.

For therapy to be most effective you must be an active participant, both during and between the sessions. People seeking counselling are willing to take responsibility for their actions, work towards self-change and create greater awareness in their lives.

What can I expect from therapy?

Therapy can provide a fresh perspective on difficult problems and point you in the direction of a solution.

Some of the benefits of therapy include:

• Learning how to feel happy, despite the circumstances
• Getting a better understanding of yourself, your goals and your values
• Improving your self-esteem and boosting self-confidence
• Developing skills for improving your relationships
• Learning new ways to cope with stress and anxiety
• Discovering new ways to solve problems in your relationships
• Improving communications and listening skills
• Finding resolution to the issues or concerns that led you to seek therapy
• Learning how to master your emotions, such as; anger, grief and depression
• Changing unhealthy behavior patterns and developing new, healthy ones.

Is therapy confidential?

In general, the law protects the confidentiality of all communications between a client and psychologist. No information is disclosed without prior written permission from the client. However, there are some exceptions required by law to this rule.
Exceptions include:
• If there is suspected child abuse or dependent adult or elder abuse.
• If a client is threatening serious bodily harm to another person or to themselves.
In these cases, the psychologist is required to report this to the appropriate authorities immediately.

How will therapy help me?

There are countless benefits to counselling!

Therapy gives you a space to talk about your problems and find a way to resolve them. Psychologists provide support, problem-solving skills, and enhanced coping strategies for issues such as; depression, anxiety, relationship troubles, unresolved childhood issues, grief, stress management, body image issues and creative blocks. Many people also find that psychologists can be tremendously helpful in managing personal growth, interpersonal relationships, family concerns, marriage issues, and the hassles of daily life.

Still have questions? Get in touch:

I look forward to hearing from you.