Is therapy right for me?

There are several reasons why people come to therapy, including dealing with long-standing psychological issues, anxiety or depression, or in response to unexpected changes in one's life such as a divorce or life cycle transitions. In addition, people may seek the advice of counsel as they pursue their own personal exploration and growth. Working with a therapist can help provide a non-judgmental environment complete with insight, support, understanding, and new strategies for all types of life challenges. Therapy is right for anyone who is interested in getting the most out of their life by taking responsibility, creating greater self-awareness, and working towards change in their lives.


How do I know if I need therapy?

Everyone goes through challenging situations in life. While you may have successfully navigated through other difficulties you've faced, there's is no shame with seeking out extra support when you need it. In fact, therapy is for people who have enough self-awareness to realize they need a helping hand, and that is something to be admired. By seeking therapy, you are taking the initiative to make that positive change. Therapy can provide long-lasting benefits and support, giving you the tools you need to avoid and deal with triggers, re-direct damaging patterns, and overcome life's unexpected challenges.


How can therapy benefit me?

A number of benefits are available from participating in psychotherapy. Therapists can provide support, problem-solving skills, and enhanced coping strategies to deal with the challenges in your life. Therapists can also provide a fresh perspective on a difficult problem, and point you in the direction of a solution. The benefits you obtain from therapy depend on how well you participate in the process of therapy. Personal growth (individually, as a couple or as a family) is enhanced when you use what you learn in therapy outside the session. Some of the benefits available from therapy include:

• Attaining a better understanding of yourself, your goals and values
• Developing skills for improving your relationships
• Finding resolution to the issues or concerns that led you to seek therapy
• Learning new ways to cope with stress and anxiety
• Managing anger, grief, depression, and other emotional pressures
• Improving communications and listening skills
• Changing old behavior patterns and developing new ones
• Discovering new ways to solve problems in your family or marriage
• Improving your self-esteem and boosting self-confidence

What is therapy like?

Every therapy session is unique and caters to each individual and their specific goals. It is standard for therapists to discuss the primary issues and concerns in your life during therapy sessions. It is common to schedule a series of weekly sessions, where each session lasts around fifty minutes. Therapy can be short-term, focusing on a specific issue, or longer-term, addressing more complex issues or ongoing personal growth. There may be times when you are asked to take certain actions outside of the therapy sessions, such as reading a relevant book or keeping records to track certain behaviors. It is important to process what has been discussed and integrate it into your life between sessions. For therapy to be most effective you must be an active participant, both during and between the sessions. People seeking psychotherapy are willing to take responsibility for their actions, work towards self-change and create greater awareness in their lives. Here are some things you can expect out of therapy:

• Compassion, respect and understanding
• Perspectives to illuminate persistent patterns and negative feelings
• Real strategies for enacting positive change
• Effective and proven techniques along with practical guidance

Is therapy confidential?
Yes. The law protects the confidentiality of all communications between a client and psychotherapist. No information is disclosed without prior written permission from the client.

However, there are some exceptions required by law to this rule. Exceptions include:

• Suspected child abuse or dependant adult or elder abuse. The therapist is required to report this to the appropriate authorities immediately .
• If a client is threatening serious bodily harm to another person. The therapist is required to notify the police.
• If a client intends to harm himself or herself. The therapist will make every effort to work with the individual to ensure their safety. However, if an individual does not cooperate, additional measures may need to be taken.