FAQs
I’ve never talked to a mental health professional. I’m used to handling things on my own. Aren’t people who go to therapy weak?
Not at all. People who ask for help know when they need it and have the courage to reach out. Everyone needs support now and then. In our work together, I will provide guidance for you to explore and identify your strengths to reduce the impact of the problems you are facing.
What’s the difference between talking to you or my best friend or family?
A mental health professional can help you approach your situation in a new way– teach you new skills, offer different perspectives, listen to you without judgment or expectations, and help you listen to yourself. Furthermore, counselling is completely confidential. You won’t have to worry about others “knowing my business.”
What is the difference between a psychotherapist, a psychologist, and a psychiatrist?
Good question!
Psychotherapists use talk therapy, and the development of the therapeutic relationship, to bring about positive change for a client. The term psychotherapist may only be used by university-trained, at a minimum a master’s level, and professionally regulated practitioners.
Psychologists (and psychological associates) also provide talk therapy and have advanced training in conducting assessments, tests, and providing diagnoses.
Psychiatrists are medical doctors specializing in mental health. They can test, assess, and diagnose. They are the only mental health professionals who can prescribe medication.
What about counsellors?
Counsellors may or may not be members of a regulated profession. It is a more generic designation that may also include career counsellors, vocational guidance counsellors, and so on. Those who are registered psychotherapists can provide both counselling and psychotherapy.
Why shouldn’t I take medication only?
Medication, taken as directed and in consultation with your doctor, addresses symptoms. As such, it can relieve the effects of underlying issues but it may not solve them. Sometimes medication is helpful in conjunction with counselling and psychotherapy. Our work together explores and unpacks the problems you are experiencing and builds on your strengths to help you accomplish your personal goals.
How do therapy sessions work? What do I have to do?
Because everyone has different issues and goals for counselling, it will be different for each individual. I tailor my therapeutic approach to your specific needs. For online therapy, please make sure you have privacy and give yourself some time before and after sessions to integrate the work.
How long will it take?
Unfortunately, this is not possible to say in a general FAQs page. Everyone’s circumstances are unique to them and the length of time counselling can take to allow you to accomplish your goals depends on your desire for personal development, your commitment, and the factors that are driving you to seek counselling in the first place.
I want to get the most out of therapy. What can I do to help?
I am so glad you are dedicated to getting the most out of your sessions. Your active participation and dedication will be crucial to your success. Be involved, be honest, be yourself!
What made you choose the picture with umbrellas for your home page?
Interestingly, I have seen many displays of beautiful umbrellas in my travels, including in my native Romania, and they make me think of “home”. The colourful umbrellas also bring to mind diversity, protection, unique stories, as well as the theme of love related to the umbrella in How I Met Your Mother (no worries if you haven’t seen it). Each umbrella hides a story waiting to emerge. ⛱