I’ve never GONE TO THERAPY BEFORE AND I FEEL UNSURE ABOUT WHETHER IT WILL BE HELPFUL.
Firstly, I want to acknowledge your courage in arriving here today, and in being curious about the therapeutic process despite your feelings of discomfort or uncertainty.
Reaching out in a time of need can feel overwhelming or unusual, especially if you have had limited opportunities to do so in the past. I will work alongside you to co-create an environment that is safe, compassionate, non-judgmental, and honouring of your experiences. I hope that you may find opportunities to re-discover, or discover for the first time, the things that bring you joy and enrich your life.
Together, we will hold space for you to be able to share your story and explore an alternative, or more balanced, perspective on areas of challenge. We will begin where you are, in the present moment, and work together to establish goals that align with what it is you wish to accomplish in therapy.
Why shouldn’t I just take medication?
Medication can be effective but it alone cannot solve all issues. Medication is often provided as a means of reducing distress enough so that you may begin to engage in the therapeutic work. Our work together is designed to explore and unpack the challenges you are experiencing and expand on your strengths so that you may move toward your goals.
How does it work? What do I have to do in sessions?
I tailor the therapeutic process to your individual needs, circumstances, and goals. The work we do together will be dependent on what is you wish to accomplish and how you feel most comfortable discussing areas of vulnerability.
The first appointment or two will often look slightly different than the standard therapy session as I will be asking more questions, about a variety of topics, in order to better understand your needs. Following this intake process, we will meet weekly or bi-weekly for sessions that are 50 minutes in length.
I typically begin each appointment by providing a brief summary of what was discussed at the previous session and then asking what has come up for you since we last spoke. This provides an opportunity to revisit the conversation from a new perspective and to address any questions that may have been brought up in the process. Some clients arrive to therapy with specific questions or topics in mind and so we may begin our session with one of those items. This is not required, nor expected, but I will always inquire as to what you feel is most relevant or important to discuss on any given day.
At the end of each session, and throughout our relationship, I will hold space for your feedback in an ongoing effort to ensure you get the most out of each of your sessions. You are always invited to share, at any time, what you would like more or less of, and to share concerns or ask questions.
How long will it take?
Unfortunately, it is not possible to predict how long it will take to move toward your goals. Every individual’s circumstances are unique and the length of time required to achieve your goals depends on a variety of factors including your engagement, the complexity of your intended outcome, unforeseen circumstances, and the factors driving you to reach out for support in the first place.
I want to get the most out of therapy. What can I do to help?
I am so glad you are dedicated to getting the most out of your sessions. Your engagement and commitment to the process will be important factors in the pursuit of your goals.