Is therapy right for me?
Seeking out therapy is an individual choice. There are many reasons why people come to therapy. Sometimes it is to deal with long-standing psychological issues, or problems with anxiety or depression. Other times it is in response to unexpected changes in one’s life such as relationship or work transition. Many seek counselling and psychotherapy as they pursue their own personal exploration and growth. Working with a therapist can help provide insight, support, and new strategies for all types of life challenges. Therapy can help address many types of issues including depression, anxiety, conflict, grief, stress management, body-image issues, and general life transitions. Therapy is right for anyone who is interested in getting the most out of their life by taking responsibility, creating greater self-awareness, and working towards change in their lives.
How can therapy help me?
Many benefits are available from participating in psychotherapy. Therapists can 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 their therapist can be a tremendous asset to managing personal growth, interpersonal relationships, family concerns, marriage issues, and the hassles of daily life. Therapists can provide a fresh perspective on a difficult problem or point you in the direction of a solution. The benefits you obtain from therapy depend on how well you use the process and put into practice what you learn. Some of the benefits available from therapy include:
- Attaining a better understanding of yourself, your goals and values
- Developing skills for improving your relationships
- Finding resolution to the issues or concerns that led you to seek therapy
- Learning new ways to cope with stress and anxiety
- Managing anger, grief, depression, and other emotional pressures
- Improving communications and listening skills
- Changing old behaviour patterns and developing new ones
- Discovering new ways to solve problems in your family or marriage
- Improving your self-esteem and boosting self-confidence
How often will I have therapy?
Therapy sessions are normally once a week. However, it is possible to have more frequent sessions if you would prefer to do this.
What will I talk about with my therapist?
You can talk about anything that is affecting you with your therapist. Your therapist is a trained mental health professional who is empathic, non-judgemental and supportive and who will focus on assisting you in achieving your therapy goals using evidence based psychotherapy.
Do I really need therapy? I can usually handle my problems.
Everyone goes through challenging situations in life, and while you may have successfully navigated through other difficulties you’ve faced, there’s nothing wrong with seeking out extra support when you need it. In fact, therapy is for people who have enough self-awareness to realize they need a helping hand, and that is something to be admired. You are taking responsibility by accepting where you’re at in life and making a commitment to change the situation by seeking therapy. Therapy provides long-lasting benefits and support, giving you the tools you need to avoid triggers, re-direct damaging patterns, and overcome whatever challenges you face.
Is online counselling as effective as face to face therapy?
Yes, the research suggests that good online therapy is as effective as face to face therapy. Please click on the link to see further information of a large study involving 9,764 clients. http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/15228830802094429
What age do I have to be?
We only work with adults over the age of 18 years old.
What can I expect from therapy?
You can expect to be treated with respect, empathy and understanding from your therapist regardless of what your issue is. Your therapist is a healthcare professional who will empower, support and work with you at a pace that suits you.
Are my data and records stored securely?
Yes, all data and records are encrypted and stored securely in compliance with data protection law.
What is therapy like?
Every therapy session is unique and caters to each individual and their specific goals. It is standard for therapists 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 fifty minutes. 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 behaviours. It is important process what has been discussed and integrate it into your life between sessions. For therapy to be most effective you must be an active participant, both during and between the sessions. People seeking psychotherapy are willing to take responsibility for their actions, work towards self-change and create greater awareness in their lives. Here are some things you can expect out of therapy:
- Compassion, respect and understanding
- Perspectives to illuminate persistent patterns and negative feelings
- Real strategies for enacting positive change
- Effective and proven techniques along with practical guidance
Is medication a substitute for therapy?
In some cases, a combination of medication and therapy is the right course of action. Working with your medical doctor you can determine what’s best for you. Clients are advised never to alter their dosage or to stop taking prescribed medication suddenly without first seeking advice from a medical doctor.
It is well established that the long-term solution to mental and emotional problems and the pain they cause cannot be solved solely by medication alone. Instead of just treating the symptom, therapy addresses the cause of our distress and the behaviour patterns that affect our progress. You can best achieve sustainable growth and a greater sense of well-being with an integrative approach to wellness.
Is therapy confidential?
Therapy is confidential and what you discuss with your therapist will normally remain confidential. However, there are exceptions to client confidentiality and your therapist is legally obliged to inform the relevant authorities if:
- If I intend to harm myself or another person.
- If a child or vulnerable adult is at risk of sexual, physical, psychological abuse or neglect.
- If I inform my therapist of criminal activity or terrorism is revealed.
- If ordered to by court order or subpoena.