FAQs

"What is it like GOING TO therapy?"

Each therapy session is tailored to the individual and their specific objectives. A therapist will typically engage in discussions about the primary concerns and issues in your life. It is customary to book a series of weekly sessions, each lasting around an hour, but sessions can also occur on a bi-weekly basis. Therapy may be short-term, concentrating on a particular issue, or long-term, addressing more complex concerns or ongoing personal development. At times, you may be encouraged to take certain actions outside of therapy, such as reading relevant literature or maintaining records to monitor behaviours. Integrating discussions from therapy into your life between sessions is crucial for its effectiveness. Active participation during and between sessions is essential for optimal outcomes. Individuals seeking psychotherapy demonstrate a readiness to take accountability for their actions, strive for self-improvement, and cultivate heightened awareness in their lives. Here's what you can anticipate from therapy:

• Practical strategies for implementing positive change
• Encouragement of self-compassion, respect, and understanding
• Perspectives that shed light on patterns of behaviour 
• Use of effective and validated techniques and interventions, coupled with practical guidance

"Is therapy the right choice for me?"

​​Opting for therapy is a deeply personal decision. Individuals seek therapy for various reasons. Some seek to address longstanding psychological concerns, while others grapple with issues like anxiety or depression. Unexpected life events, such as breakups, loss, or career shifts can also prompt the decision to seek therapy. Many engage in therapy to embark on personal exploration and to foster growth. Working with a licenced psychotherapist can offer valuable insights, support, and novel strategies to navigate diverse life challenges. Therapy is effective in addressing a wide range of issues, including depression, anxiety, body-image struggles, interpersonal conflicts, grief, stress management, and transitions. It is suitable for anyone seeking to enhance their life by assuming responsibility, cultivating self-awareness, and pursuing positive change.

"I'm a strong, independent person, do I really need therapy?"

​Life presents us all with challenges, and though you may have overcome many hurdles independently, seeking extra support demonstrates courage, self-awareness, and a commitment to continued personal growth. Acknowledging your current circumstances and taking responsibility for your own well-being is an important first step.  Therapy offers enduring advantages and assistance, equipping you with the necessary tools to face your challenges, redirect detrimental patterns, conquer the obstacles in your path, and ultimately, understand yourself better.

"What's better, medication or therapy?"

In certain situations, a combining medication and psychotherapy can be a highly effective approach. Collaborating with your medical doctor allows you to discern the most suitable medical path for your needs. That being said, countless studies have shown that mental health challenges, along with the accompanying distress, cannot be resolved solely through medication over the long term. Rather than merely acting on symptoms, therapy delves into the root causes of our distress and the behavioural patterns hindering our health and growth. Opting for an integrated approach to wellness is likely to yield the most enduring growth and foster a heightened sense of well-being.

"How can therapy help?"

Therapy offers varied and numerous benefits.  A psychotherapist can serve as a reliable support system, equipping individuals with strategies to address issues such as depression, anxiety, relationship challenges, unresolved childhood traumas, stress, body image concerns, and creative barriers. Additionally, therapists assist in personal growth endeavours, managing familial conflicts, and navigating the complexities of daily life. They provide invaluable insights into challenging situations and offer guidance towards viable solutions.
The extent of benefit derived from therapy is contingent upon one's active participation and implementation of learned techniques. However, the potential gains are significant, including:

1. Heightened self-awareness, clarity on personal aspirations, and alignment with core values.
2. Enhanced interpersonal skills conducive to fostering healthier relationships.
3. Resolution of the underlying issues prompting therapy initiation.
4. Acquisition of effective stress and anxiety management strategies.
5. Proficient handling of challenging emotions such as anger, grief, and despondency.
6. Improved communication proficiency and active listening abilities.
7. Modification of maladaptive behavioral patterns and adoption of healthier alternatives.
8. Effective problem-solving strategies applicable to familial or relational conflicts.
9. Enhanced self-assurance and self-belief through personal development and growth.

"Is therapy actually confidential?"

The confidentiality of sessions and communications between the patient/client and psychotherapist is legally protected and paramount to preserving the therapeutic relationship. Your personal information will never be disclosed without your prior written consent. However, there are legal exceptions to this principle, which include:

1. Suspected cases of child abuse, dependent adult abuse, or elder abuse. In such instances, the therapist is obligated to promptly report to the appropriate authorities.
2. When a client poses a threat of serious bodily harm to another individual, the therapist is required to alert law enforcement.
3. If a patient expresses intentions of self-harm, the therapist will make every effort to ensure their safety. That being said, further actions may be necessary to ensure safety. 
4. If compelled by a judge (or court) to produce notes or files. In this case you will always be notified before any information is disclosed. 

"What is it like to go to therapy?"

Each therapy session is tailored to the individual and their specific objectives. A therapist will typically engage in discussions about the primary concerns and issues in your life. It is customary to book a series of weekly sessions, each lasting around an hour, but sessions can also occur on a bi-weekly basis. Therapy may be short-term, concentrating on a particular issue, or long-term, addressing more intricate concerns or ongoing personal development. At times, you may be encouraged to take certain actions outside of therapy, such as reading relevant literature or maintaining records to monitor behaviours. Integrating discussions from therapy into your life between sessions is crucial for its effectiveness. Active participation during and between sessions is essential for optimal outcomes. Individuals seeking psychotherapy demonstrate a readiness to take accountability for their actions, strive for self-improvement, and cultivate heightened awareness in their lives. Here's what you can anticipate from therapy:

• Practical strategies for implementing positive change
• Encouragement of self-compassion, respect, and understanding
• Perspectives that shed light on patterns of behaviour 
• Use of effective and validated techniques and interventions, coupled with practical guidance

"How does payment and insurance work?"

We accept clients with and without insurance. To determine if you have coverage for mental health services, therapy, or counselling, the first thing you should do is check with your insurance company or employer. Check your coverage carefully and find the answers to the following questions:

• What are my mental health benefits?
• What is the coverage amount per therapy session?
• How many therapy sessions does my plan cover?
• Which professionals are covered - social workers, psychotherapists, and psychologists are sometimes covered differently depending on your insurance company

If you do not have insurance, you can pay out of pocket. 
We accept E-transfer and Credit card payments and payment is expected within 7 days of your session.
Find out more about TAVI therapy rates here.

"How Long will Therapy Last?" 

The length of treatment in therapy is totally up to you! You may begin to experience symptom relief within a few sessions, but research shows that the benefits of therapy usually occur within four to six months of consistent attendance. Many clients commit to therapy longer-term to undertake deeper work and/or more complex challenges.

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