Hopefully there is a lot that can be gained from reading the therapist’s website and if there is not the required information on the website, do not hesitate in dropping an email to ask. Generally, most clients will know from the first or second session, if their therapist is right for them. And if it doesn’t feel like the right ‘fit’ for you, then please know that this is of great importance for any therapy to work and you are encouraged to go on to find another therapist.

Depending on the issue that has brought you to seek therapy in the first instance, will often determine the ‘amount’ of therapy required. Generally speaking, it is at a minimum of weekly sessions to start with. Clients with trauma histories may need weekly, long-term intervention over a few years.

Therapy can be likened to a roller-coaster ride wearing a blind-fold…..! There will be the ups and the downs and rightfully so as often the content of what is being brought to the session is not always the good stuff. The process can feel very slow at times and tolerating all that one experiences in these sessions is sometimes the work required. It is not always the obvious content that is brought to sessions that needs worked on – and this can take time to figure out and trust.

The first therapy session will feel unlike other sessions as it’s a time for both myself and the client to get to know one another. This session is about ensuring that I will be the right ‘fit’ for you and it’s a time that I welcome any questions or worries you might have about beginning the process. I will gather general information about you and why you have sought therapy. If it is ACC related, we will complete an engagement form to submit to ACC so even if you do not continue the work with me, you are in the system and your therapy is funded by ACC for you to see any ACC accredited therapist. We might discuss what has or hasn’t worked for you in the past and what you are hoping to achieve by accessing therapy. The entire process is a two-way street with no set rules or agenda for how or what you bring to therapy. You are seen as capable and competent and the expert on everything to do with you. Therapy sessions from here will involve various therapeutic techniques, observations, exploration and some education so as you can figure out what it is that you need. And if you still don’t know, then we will work it out together – you are not alone in your process.
As a therapist, especially working with trauma, I take great pride to ensure sessions are safe and not harmful or re-traumatising in any way. If you are concerned about this being an issue for you, please make sure you speak to your therapist about it. I find myself expressing to clients often that “you can’t push a river” meaning that there is a process that each individual journeys through and it cannot be sped up or slowed down. There is no sense of urgency in this work which can often be the challenge for some in that sense as it requires an element of trust.

That’s fine – cancellations happen and so do holidays and other commitments. You are encouraged to be as transparent as possible and give notice for those times that you are unable to make it to your session. You are asked to give at least 24hours notice otherwise you may be charged for the missed appointment. Your therapist may not be available either on occasions and this again will be discussed with you in person, giving you plenty of notice to plan and prepare.

Typically, texting or email is absolutely fine unless it requires a discussion. Please note that any communication is only going to be responded to during the working hours of your therapist. For any urgent psychiatric care or safety risk, please telephone Crisis Resolution on 03-364 0482.

No. We can discuss medication if or when appropriate however for this to be prescribed, you would need to see your G.P or Psychiatrist.

All session content is highly confidential unless the client has consented to the therapist liaising with their G.P for example or others involved in their care. The only other occasion when confidentiality can be broken is when there is serious concern for harm towards themselves or others.