1. What is therapy or psychotherapy?
It is talking to a professional who can help you to cope with your problems, improve general well-being and deal with a challenging period in your life. Therapy is very different from a conversation with a friend.
2. How do I know whether I need therapy?
This is very individual. For some people it may just be feeling generally low or overwhelmed. For others it may be worrying about work or one’s relationship. There are many different reasons for getting help. If you feel that you’re not coping and you’re struggling, I’m happy to talk to you about whether I can help. Your GP may also be able to assist you to decide whether or not therapy might help you.
3. Does it mean I am mad or crazy or abnormal if I go to therapy?
Certainly not. People go to therapy for many different reasons including just wanting to talk to someone professional and objective who is not a friend, colleague or member of their family.
4. Are sessions confidential?
Clients are often concerned that the psychologist will discuss them and what they have said with others. Psychologists are not allowed to discuss them with anyone else unless they have given permission or there is a safety or legal issue.
5. Have I found the right therapist for me?
There are many different types of therapists. I am happy to discuss my style so you can see if we’re the right fit. I want you to feel comfortable.
6. What can actually be achieved in therapy sessions?
It depends on what the problem or issues are and also what you want to get out of therapy. For some people it helps them to move forward through a single issue although for others it could be multiple issues.
7. I have heard it said that the client needs to be willing to “put in the work.” What does this mean?
You work as part of a team, you and the therapist working on your problem. Sometimes it is enough to just talk about your problem, but sometimes you will need to do things out of the session.
8. What does therapy cost?
This depends whether or not you are able to get a Medicare rebate, whether you are privately insured and what your fund pays and the cost of the sessions. My costs are listed on my website.
9. How many sessions will I need?
This depends on what the problem or issue is. Since every situation is different, I can only provide an estimate based on our first meeting.
10. Am I ready to take the plunge?
If you think that you would like to take the next step and see whether or not you think I can help you, pick up the phone and ring. If I can’t answer immediately, leave a message with the best time to contact you and I will get back to you. Emailing and texting are fine as well.
