Therapy is a service provided by a trained professional who can assist you to become more self-aware and emotionally healthy. Through various techniques you can gain insight into your issues, understand yourself and your values, and learn strategies to better manage difficulties in your life.
Therapy can also help you to make positive changes and lead to a more fulfilling life. People seek therapy for a variety of issues, for example, from mental health conditions to work, self-esteem, procrastination, and relationship issues. People often go to therapy in times of crisis; however, therapy can be helpful at other times to improve your well-being. Many clients find therapy to be a fulfilling journey of self-discovery.

The duration of the sessions are about 50 minutes. A detailed history is taken during the first session. In fact, usually gathering information and understanding you will take several sessions. Then based on information provided and your goals your psychologist will develop a collaborative treatment plan and formulation. The therapeutic approach and length of treatment will depend on your specific problems and goals. You should expect to be treated with respect, open-mindedness, genuine interest and empathy.

All personal information gathered during the provision of the psychological service will remain confidential and secure. There are some circumstances where a psychologist is required to break confidentiality and these will be discussed with you in session.

You need to choose your psychologist wisely, you need to feel comfortable with this person and feel that they are respectful, knowledgeable and genuine with you. Are you feeling safe with the psychologist? Feel that they understand your goals and able to help? Be patient, sometimes it can take some time to develop trust.

As a psychologist, I want to help you to develop skills and resources that can help you with the current issues and in the future. Your participation will be of crucial importance. Remember, that you often only see a psychologist once a week, which is not much time at all. The real work often happens in between sessions. Do you do between session practices discussed with your psychologist? Reflect on the sessions? Read recommended information?  Psychotherapy is a collaborative process requiring your participation. Research shows your involvement in the process and amount of effort you put are crucial to your progress. Psychologist can show you the way and help you to make the steps, but ultimately this is your journey, and you will be the one walking it.  My goal for you is to become self-sufficient and not needing my help anymore. 

Are your expectations realistic? Do you think that seeing a psychologist once a week and doing nothing in between sessions is enough? Do you expect that a psychologist has a magic wand and can fix your problems? Will make your decisions for you? Do you have a number of sessions in mind you believe you need? Answering these questions can help you to correct your misperceptions. You can discuss your expectations with your psychologist and get clarifications. 

It is important that you are as open and honest with your psychologist as possible. Remember, psychologists will be developing your treatment plan based on the information you provide. So for the best results, you need to let your psychologist know what is happening in your life.

I will be asking you to reflect on what is working for you in our sessions and what has worked in the past. It is important for me to get an honest answer so I can adjust my approach if needed. If something is not working for you, it is important for me to know as soon as possible. Remember, I can’t read your mind!

This is a difficult question to answer in general terms. The therapeutic approach and length of treatment will depend on your goals, history, and specific issues. Sometimes you will be able to see good results after several sessions, and other times you will require longer-term therapy. I will have a conversation with you about possible length of treatment. 

It is normal to feel anxious before your on-line session. Your psychologist should explain to you how on-line sessions will work and answer your questions to make it easier for you. These tips below can make your on-line experience more comfortable: 

Make sure that you set up your Telehealth session in a quiet, private space for the duration of your appointment, without distractions (eg mobile phone, other devices, family members, pets). 

Make your space as pleasant as you can – set a comfortable room temperature, have water, tissues, possibly a blanket or wrap around you.

Make sure the device from which you are accessing Telehealth is fully charged or you have capacity to charge your device during the session without interruption.

Check the link, camera and audio before the session. Have an alternative way of contacting your therapist (e.g. their phone number) in case you experience technical difficulties.

To prevent non-participants from joining your confidential session, please do not share the link that is sent to you with anyone.