Frequently Asked Questions

Individual Therapy

Q: How do I know if I need counselling?

Q: How do I know if counselling is right for me?

A: Deciding if counselling is right for you is a personal choice. It can be beneficial if you're facing challenges, feeling overwhelmed, or seeking personal growth. During our initial sessions, we'll explore your concerns and collaboratively decide on the best approach for your needs.

Q: What types of therapy do you offer?

A: I offer a range of therapeutic approaches tailored to your needs, including cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT), mindfulness-based therapy, solution-focused therapy, and trauma-informed therapy. Together, we'll determine the most effective approach for your goals.

Q: What should I expect from counselling sessions?

A: In our counselling sessions, you can expect a safe and non-judgmental space where we'll work together to explore your thoughts, feelings, and concerns. We'll collaborate to develop strategies and insights that can help you navigate challenges and achieve your goals.

Q: How long does counselling typically last?

A: The duration of counselling varies depending on individual needs and goals. Some clients find significant progress in a few sessions, often bewteen 6 and 12 appointments, while others may benefit from longer-term support. We'll discuss your progress regularly to ensure we're meeting your needs effectively.

Q: How often will I need to attend counselling sessions?

A: The frequency of sessions depends on your unique situation and goals. Initially, we may meet weekly to establish rapport and address immediate concerns. As progress is made, we can adjust the frequency to bi-weekly or monthly sessions.

Q: Is everything I share confidential?

A: Yes, confidentiality is a cornerstone of counselling. What you share in our sessions is strictly confidential, adhering to professional ethics and legal requirements. Exceptions may apply only in rare circumstances, such as if there's a risk of harm to yourself or others.

Q: Will I be given advice or told what to do in counselling?

A: Counselling is a collaborative process, and my role is to support and empower you. While I may offer insights, tools, and strategies, decisions about your life and goals are ultimately yours to make. I'll work with you to explore options and develop solutions that align with your values and aspirations.

Q: How do I schedule an appointment?

A: To schedule an appointment, you can contact me through the website, email, or phone. We'll arrange a convenient time for your initial session and discuss any paperwork or forms you may need to complete beforehand.

Q: How can I prepare for my first counselling session?

A: You can prepare for your first session by reflecting on what you hope to achieve in counselling and any specific goals or concerns you'd like to address. It can also be helpful to consider what has led you to seek counselling and any past experiences with therapy.

Couple Therapy

Q: What issues can couple or relationship therapy help with?

A: Couple or relationship therapy can help address a wide range of issues, including communication difficulties, conflicts, trust issues, intimacy concerns, infidelity, and navigating major life transitions such as marriage, parenthood, or career changes.

Q: How do I know if couple or relationship therapy is right for us?

A: If you're experiencing challenges in your relationship impacting your emotional well-being and quality of life, couple or relationship therapy may be beneficial. It provides a supportive space to explore issues, improve communication, and strengthen your connection.

Q: Do we have to be married to benefit from couple therapy?

A: No, couples of all types and relationship stages can benefit from therapy, whether you're dating, engaged, married, or in a long-term partnership. The focus is on improving the quality of your relationship and addressing specific challenges you're facing.

Q: How does couple therapy differ from individual therapy?

A: Couple therapy focuses on the dynamics and interactions between partners, while individual therapy focuses on personal issues and growth. In couple therapy, we'll work together to improve communication, resolve conflicts, and build a more satisfying relationship.

Q: How long does couple therapy typically last?

A: The duration of couple therapy varies based on your unique needs and goals. Some couples find significant progress in a few sessions, while others benefit from longer-term support. We'll review your progress regularly at least in the sixth session to ensure we're meeting your objectives effectively.

Q: Can couple therapy save a relationship on the brink of separation or divorce?

A: Couple therapy can be effective in addressing underlying issues and improving relationship dynamics, even in challenging situations. It provides a structured and supportive environment to explore concerns, rebuild trust, and work towards reconciliation if both partners are committed to the process.

Q: What can we expect during a typical couple therapy session?

A: During a couple therapy session, we'll discuss the issues you're facing in your relationship and explore underlying emotions, thoughts, and patterns of communication. We'll work collaboratively to identify goals, develop strategies for positive change, and improve your relationship dynamics.

Q: Will we be asked to share intimate details of our relationship in therapy?

A: While therapy may involve discussing intimate aspects of your relationship, the level of detail shared is entirely up to you. Therapy is a confidential and non-judgmental space, and I'll always respect your boundaries and comfort levels as we work towards your goals.

Q: What if one partner is hesitant or resistant to attending couple therapy?

A: It's not uncommon for one partner to feel hesitant or resistant to therapy initially. I encourage open communication and understanding between partners to address concerns and explore the benefits of therapy together. In some cases, individual sessions may be recommended to address underlying issues and facilitate a smoother transition into couple therapy.