Learn more about Psychotherapy Services:
What is Psychotherapy?
Psychotherapy, counseling, or therapy is also known as “talk therapy”. More precisely, psychotherapy is a collaborative treatment approach based on the relationship between the client and the psychologist/therapist.
In a safe, supportive, objective and nonjudgmental environment, the client and therapist work closely together to help the client explore, identify and understand their personal issues and situation. Using scientific and research based therapeutic concepts and techniques, the therapist helps the client change thoughts, feelings and behaviors in order to overcome their problems so that clients can begin to lead their best and most productive life.
What is the Goal of Therapy?
Simply put, the goal of therapy is to enable the client to:
- understand their feelings,
- become aware of one’s past, and it’s impact in the present,
- recognize what makes them feel the way they do in their particular situation,
- and to learn how to cope in more adaptive ways.
Therapy can address a range of issues such as, depression, low self esteem, anxiety, phobias, family and relationship issues, emotional dysregulation, job loss, career issues, loss of a loved one, and behavioral challenges.
What Do You Need to Know Before you Begin Therapy?
The following questions are important to ask before entering therapy:
- Are you a licensed professional/psychologist?
- What are your area (s) of expertise?
- How long have you been practicing?
- What is your therapeutic approach?
- How long are the sessions?
- What are your fees?
- Do you provide insurance receipts?
Once you have an understanding of the psychologist’s credentials and areas of expertise, it is important to find a psychologist you feel comfortable and at ease with. Since you and your chosen psychologist work closely together, having a good rapport is critical.
What to Expect from Therapy?
Psychotherapy is usually time limited. Although some forms of psychotherapy last only a few sessions, others can be long-term, lasting for months or even years.
Therapy is strictly confidential, with a few exceptions.
Sessions may be one-to-one, in pairs, or in groups. They are usually 50 minutes (plus 1o minutes for note taking) long.
Typically, the sessions are scheduled on a weekly or bimonthly basis. However, the frequency of sessions can vary according to the client’s needs and comfort levels.
Additionally, it is important to note that clients who are eager to change and committed to the process often see positive changes within a short period of time.
How Do You Know If Therapy is Helping?
At the start of therapy, both you and your therapist must decide on the goals of therapy That is, what do you want to gain from therapy? Once the goals are established and therapy begins, you and your therapist should have periodic assessments to see how you are feeling, whether there appears to be positive gains and whether your goals are being addressed. It is also important to note that in some cases, as therapy progresses your initial goals may in fact change.
It is also important to keep in mind that as therapy progresses, you may have strong emotional reactions. You may feel more overwhelmed, more angry, more sad or more confused than you did at the start of the process. This does not necessarily mean that therapy is not working. Instead, it maybe a sign that with the support of your therapist you are now able to confront your personal issues. Thus, these strong emotions may actually be a sign of growth rather than a therapeutic roadblock.
How is Psychotherapy Billed?
Psychotherapy services, either direct or indirect, are billed by the hour. The typical psychotherapy hour is 50 minutes with the remaining 10 minutes devoted to note taking in the client’s file.
Payment is accepted in the form of cheques, cash or INTERAC e-transfers. Credit or debit cards are not accepted. Payment is due at the session. Please be prepared with your form of payment before you arrive to your appointment.
Insurance receipts are provided upon request.
For additional information, please contact me here.