FAQS
WHY WOULD I WANT TO SPEAK TO A THERAPIST?
There can be many reasons why people decide it may be helpful to speak to a mental health professional about how they are feeling.
A major life event can often trigger a shift in emotions and mood or when whatever your dealing with in your life simply becomes to big or too painful to manage alone.
Speaking to someone outside of your usual circle of family or friends can be useful.
HOW DO I CHOOSE A THERAPIST?
There are lots of good types of effective therapy and good and effective therapists delivering them. What matters most when embarking upon this first and important step is finding the person you feel you have ' a good fit with' The best indicator of a good outcome for therapy is developing a strong therapeutic relationship with your therapist .built on trust and respect.
HOW LONG WILL I NEED TO SEE SOMEONE?
How long anyone stays in therapy is going to differ from person to person. You are in the driving seat. Many factors will determine the length of therapy, severity of the difficulties, your aims for therapy, the frequency of your sessions. All of this will be discussed and kept under review with your therapist who can guide you through this process step by step.
HOW LONG ARE THE SESSIONS AND HOW OFTENÂ WILL I NEED TO BE SEEN?
Session length is a therapeutic hour, lasting 50 minutes. Typically initially you will have a session weekly this may well change as you progress through therapy and learn to manage your difficulties and make changes. Sessions may then go to bi weekly and then to monthly as you move to recovery.
HOW DO I KNOW WHATÂ SAY WILL REMAIN CONFIDENTIAL?
Therapists will be bound by their professional body and have to adhere to the guidelines set out for them. Choose a therapist that is accredited by whatever professional body they are a member of.
The basic rule is what happens in therapy stays in therapy... there are however a few exceptions to this.
Harm to self or others - If your therapist believes that you or someone else is at significant risk of harm then they will take the necessary and appropriate action to ensure yours and others safety by involving the appropriate authorities i.e. GP, Police, Family Members. Including if your files are summoned by a court of law for whatever reason
I HAVE ALWAYS MANAGED THINGS ON MY OWN, ISN'T IT WEAK TO ASK FOR HELP?
Quite the reverse people who come to therapy are strong enough to recognise when they need help and ask for it. All of us need support at some point in our lives, and seeking professional help may help you to lead the life you want despite the difficulties you experience.