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Frequently Asked
Questions
How can I know if my therapist will be a good fit for me?
We offer free 15-minute phone consultations for prospective clients before scheduling an initial session. The therapeutic relationship is vital to the counseling process, and a phone consultation can provide you with the opportunity to determine whether your counselor is a good fit for you, both in personality and specialty. This is a time for you to ask questions and for the therapist to better understand what you are facing and how they can help.
I've never talked to anyone. I'm used to handling things on my own. Aren't people who go to therapy looked at as weak?
Not at all. People who ask for help know when they need it and have the courage to reach out. Everyone needs help now and then, even us therapists! In our work together, your therapist will help you explore and identify your strengths and how to implement them to reduce the influence of the problems you are facing.
What’s the difference between talking to you, my best friend, or family?
A mental health professional can help you approach your situation in a new way– teach you new skills, gain different perspectives, listen to you without judgment or expectations, and help you listen to yourself. Furthermore, counseling is completely confidential. You won’t have to worry about others “knowing my business.” Lastly, if your situation provokes a great deal of negative emotion, and you’ve been confiding in a friend or family member, there is the risk that once you are feeling better, you could start avoiding that person so you aren’t reminded of this difficult time in your life.
Why shouldn’t I just take medication?
Medication can be effective but it alone cannot solve all issues. Sometimes medication is needed in conjunction with counseling. Our work together is designed to explore and unpack the problems you are experiencing and expand on the strengths that can help you accomplish your personal goals.
How does it work? What do I have to do in sessions?
Because each person has different issues and goals for counseling, the process will be different depending on the individual. Your therapist will tailor their therapeutic approach to meet your specific needs. That being said, the initial process is the same for everyone. The first two sessions (intake) are where you and your therapist get to know each other. Your therapist will gather extensive current and past psychiatric information. After the history is gathered, you and your therapist will discuss therapeutic goals to work on during your time together. Please be patient during this process! The more information your therapist can gather, the better they'll be able to help. Please be honest when sharing. This is a safe space with no judgment. Your therapy journey will officially begin on your 3rd appointment. We encourage you to commit to at least 4 sessions before deciding whether therapy or your therapist is for you. After this, if you feel like it's just not a good fit, please inform your therapist. We promise no hard feelings; we just want to make sure you're benefiting even if it's not with us!
How long will it take for me to start feeling better?
Everyone’s circumstances are unique to them, and the length of time counseling can take to allow you to accomplish your goals depends on your desire for personal development, your commitment, and the factors that are driving you to seek counseling in the first place.
Most people feel some relief as early as the first session, and will continue to experience gains as therapy progresses.
But also: the research tells us that more foundational and sustainable shifts in feelings, behaviours, relationships, and self-worth takes a minimum of eight sessions. And if you’re struggling with anxiety, depression, or trauma, most clients will require a minimum of 10-12 sessions.
I want to get the most out of therapy. What can I do to help?
We are so glad you are dedicated to getting the most out of your sessions. Your active participation and dedication will be crucial to your success.
Therapy is hard work. Those who are more motivated for change will put in the necessary work needed in order for real change to occur. After all, therapy is only one hour a week. The real work happens at home, when you apply the skills and/or insights learned during that hour.