faqS
1. how are counselling & therapy different?
These two terms are often used interchangeably and only loosely distinguished. The way I see it, counselling focuses on general life stressors while psychotherapy addresses diagnosed mental health conditions.
I’ve worked with clients diagnosed with depressive and anxiety disorders, Bipolar Disorder, ADHD, and ASD. While I use screening tools on occasion, it must be noted that counsellors are not qualified to provide a diagnosis.
2. how do i know i need counselling/therapy?
Many clinicians might say "when your functioning is impaired." This generally means your ability to attend school or work, practise self-care, maintain relationships, or handle everyday tasks has been significantly affected.
3. is it the only way out?
Counselling and therapy are just one of many ways to make sense of our inner experiences. Some people journal, others trek to Everest Base Camp. Personally, I find that being asked the right questions can help us break free from own echo chambers.
7. is everything i share confidential?
Yes, I am bound by confidentiality, except in specific cases (e.g., threats of harm to yourself or others) which I will explain during our first session. Your identity will remain anonymous, even when I discuss your case with my clinical supervisor.
9. what if it doesn't work?
8. how will i know it's working?
Therapy won’t make your problems disappear, but you’ll know it’s working when you feel better equipped to handle them, build healthier relationships, and experience an improvement in mood.
9. what if it doesn't work?
9. what if i feel worse?
It’s natural to feel emotionally stirred when processing sensitive material. That's an important part of the healing process. Remember, you’re always in control of the content and pace of your sharing, and you can take a pause whenever you need to.
9. what if it doesn't work?
4. what happens in our first session?
The intake session usually covers more breadth than depth. We will talk about your history, concerns at the moment, and goals for the future to develop a treatment plan. It's OK if you don't have a goal yet - we can figure that out along the way.
5. and the subsequent ones?
I often combine talk therapy with "hands-on" exercises like mindfulness, drawing, or imaginal exposure. Some clients who wish to stay accountable and work toward their goals between sessions also appreciate "homework."
6. how often should i see you?
The choice is entirely yours, but as a guideline, clients usually see me monthly or bi-monthly when they're coping well, fornightly when they're struggling, and weekly during a "crisis" (e.g., after an unexpected event).
10. what if it doesn't work?
It's okay to let me know if my approach isn't working for you. I can adjust it or refer you to another counsellor or therapist in my network who may be a better fit. No hard feelings!