Common Queries

All the Answers You Seek, In One Place

Does therapy work?

Research shows that therapy helps most people feel better and lead satisfying lives. Having a collaborative and trusting relationship with the psychologist is the strongest predictor of successful therapy. As a result, you and I will work together to understand your goals and create a therapy and change plan. For many concerns, therapy is beneficial on its own. In other cases, therapy may be most effective in combination with other treatments, like medication. I work alongside psychiatrists and we collaborate as a team to provide the best treatment for you.

What can I expect at the first session?

Therapy begins with an intake session. The aims of the intake sessions are two-fold:​

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1. Understand you as a person and your goals for therapy. This typically involves asking you questions about what brings you to see me, what you are hoping for in our work together, and what life is and has been for you with respect to your day-to-day life, including relationships, work and school.

2. Introduce you to therapy. This involves explaining how therapy works, answering any questions you may have about the therapy process and psychologist (where appropriate), and agreeing on therapy goals. 

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It is important to note that therapy isn’t a quick fix because you are not broken. It takes time for you and I to work together to piece together your story, uncover your strengths and learn new skills that will allow you to build resilience and thrive, despite the challenges that arise in life.

How can I prepare for my first session?

It is normal to feel nervous about and in the first session. You may find it helpful to prepare a list of things you may want to say or cover in the first session. This list may include:

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• Your reason(s) for seeking therapy. What brings you to see me and consider therapy?

• Your goals for therapy. What do you hope to get out of therapy?

• Any questions you have about therapy?

• Any other things you feel is pertinent for me know in the first session

What happens in subsequent sessions?

This would depend on the issues you are seeking help for and your therapy goals. Typically, sessions begin with a check-in on how you were between sessions; you might bring up an issue that happened between sessions that bothered you and that you wanted to discuss. If you were given homework in your previous session, we would review your homework and discuss the applications. You and I will then agree on the focus of the session. Regardless of the focus of the session, where possible, I will try to link it to the overarching goal that you are working on, the issue you have been discussing, or the skill you have been learning, in order to ensure continuity between sessions.

How long is each session?

Each session typically runs for 50-60 minutes, unless otherwise stated.

How frequent are the sessions?

It is advisable to have regular sessions on a weekly or fortnightly basis to ensure continuity between sessions and your therapeutic progress. Towards the end of therapy, this frequency may be extended to monthly booster sessions.

How many sessions are needed?

Every client has unique experience, motivation, and presenting concern(s). Most people who present with difficulties adjusting to a recent event but have coped well previously may find that their issues have been adequately addressed after 5-10 sessions. Others who have struggled with more longstanding problems and whose issues originate from a difficult childhood may find that they need longer-term therapy. 

As your psychologist, I will check in with you from time to time on how you feel you are progressing towards your goals for therapy. It is also important that you communicate your needs in sessions to ensure therapy is moving in the direction of your goals.

What is expected of me in therapy?

The most important expectation of therapy is for you to make a commitment to attend sessions.

In addition, after each session, you will be given practice assignments to complete outside the sessions. These assignments are designed to improve your symptoms more rapidly outside the treatment sessions. 

You are also encouraged to ask any questions that you might have at any point in doing therapy.

Can I stop therapy?

Your decision to do therapy is voluntary. If you are considering stopping therapy, you are strongly encouraged to discuss your concerns before terminating.

Have a question unanswered here?

I’m committed to giving you the best care and experience I can. Don’t hesitate to get in touch if you have any additional questions. Contact me here.