FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What is Therapy?
Psychotherapy is a collaborative process that can help people understand the issues that are contributing to their difficulties,identify the strengths they can draw on, and develop more effective strategies to cope with stressful situations and to achieve their goals.
Who can benefit from therapy?
Any person experiencing distress, symptoms of depression, symptoms of stress and anxiety, college adjustment issues such as homesickness, academic problems,Interpersonal issues, bereavement & grief, questions/confusion about identity, sexuality, gender, or religious concerns, concerns about body image, food, eating, or weight, experiences of sexual assault, relationship violence, or abuse, thoughts about suicide, death or hurting self/others, alcohol/drug use. Therapy can also be sought to improve self awareness, work on communication skills, personality development, enhance productivity and fuel personal growth.
When to seek therapy?
While psychotherapy can be helpful to many people, if any of the following indicators are present we strongly encourage you to seek psychotherapy services.These include:
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You are unhappy on most days or aren’t enjoying things that previously made you happy
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You feel a sense of hopelessness or helplessness
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You feel overwhelmed by what is going on in your life
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You are unable to concentrate on your schoolwork or other activities
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You are unable to sleep at night or constantly feel tired
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You are feeling a sense of worthlessness or self loathing
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You have increased your use of alcohol or other drugs
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You are having thoughts about hurting yourself or someone else
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You are struggling with issues related to your identity and don’t feel like there’s anyone you can open up to
What to expect?
Typically, the first appointment is spent clarifying the problem, gathering about your life and other details so as to offer a context to your therapist. The psychologist/ psychotherapist may have questions regarding solutions you've already tried. This helps the therapist identify which approaches will be most helpful. Then, you and the psychologist will decide on goals for your work together.
To get the most out of therapy:
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Be clear about what you hope to get out of the experience.
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Be an active participant.
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Ask questions.
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Focus on what's most important to you.
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Recognize and express your feelings.
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Be patient with yourself.
