What is psychotherapy?

Psychotherapy (often called "therapy" or "counselling") is a collaborative process where you work with a trained mental health professional to understand your thoughts, emotions, and behaviours, develop coping skills, and work toward personal goals.

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How do I know if therapy is right for me?

People seek therapy for many reasons, including:

• Anxiety or depression

• Stress or burnout

• Relationship challenges

• Grief or loss

• Trauma

• Life transitions

• Self-esteem or identity concerns

• Personal growth, even without a mental health diagnosis

You don't have to be in crisis to benefit from therapy.

 

What happens during the first session?

The first session usually focuses on:

• Why you're seeking therapy

• Your current concerns

• Relevant personal, medical, and family history

• Your goals for therapy

• Questions you have about the therapist's approach

It's also an opportunity to see whether you feel comfortable working with the therapist.

 

Do I have to tell my whole life story?

No. You decide what you're comfortable sharing. Therapy often unfolds gradually, and there's no expectation that you'll discuss everything immediately.

 

Is everything I say confidential?

Generally, yes. Therapists are bound by confidentiality, but there are important legal and ethical exceptions, such as situations involving imminent risk of serious harm to yourself or others, suspected abuse or neglect where reporting is required, or when ordered by a court, depending on local laws. Your therapist will explain these limits at the beginning of treatment.

What if I don't know what to talk about?

That's okay. Therapists are trained to help guide the conversation. You can simply start with how you've been feeling recently or what's been on your mind.

 

How long does therapy take?

It varies depending on your goals and needs.

• Short-term therapy: a few weeks to several months

• Longer-term therapy: months to years

Some people attend only during particularly stressful periods, while others continue longer for ongoing growth.

 

How often will I go?

Many people start with weekly sessions. Depending on your progress and preferences, sessions may later become biweekly or monthly.

 

Will my therapist give me advice?

Usually not in the traditional sense. Rather than telling you what to do, therapists often help you:

• Explore different perspectives

• Clarify your values

• Develop problem-solving skills

• Make decisions that align with your goals

Some therapeutic approaches are more directive than others.

 

Will therapy make me feel worse before I feel better?

Sometimes. Discussing difficult experiences can temporarily bring up strong emotions. Many people find that these feelings become more manageable over time as they develop new ways of understanding and coping.

 

What if I cry?

THAT’S OK!! Crying is a common and normal response in therapy. Therapists are accustomed to working with a wide range of emotions. It’s a compliment to your therapist that you feel comfortable enough with them to be vulnerable.

 

What if I don't "click" with my therapist?

A good therapeutic relationship is important. If you don't feel comfortable after a few sessions, it's reasonable to discuss your concerns or consider finding a therapist who feels like a better fit.

 

Do I need to prepare before each session?

Not necessarily, but it can help to think about:

• Significant events since your last session

• Emotions you've noticed

• Challenges or successes

• Questions you'd like to discuss

Some people keep a journal between sessions.

 

Will I get homework?

Some therapists assign activities such as:

• Journaling

• Practicing coping skills

• Tracking moods or thoughts

• Communication exercises

• Mindfulness practices

Others do not. It depends on the therapeutic approach.

 

How will I know if therapy is working?

Signs of progress may include:

• Feeling better able to manage emotions

• Improved relationships

• Reduced symptoms

• Greater self-awareness

• Increased confidence

• More effective coping strategies

Progress isn't always linear, and it's normal to have ups and downs.

 

Can I ask my therapist questions?

Absolutely. You can ask about:

• Their therapeutic approach

• Their experience

• What to expect from treatment

• Confidentiality

• Session structure

• How you'll measure progress

 

Is it okay to stop therapy?

Yes. Ideally, you'll discuss ending therapy with your therapist so you can review your progress, address any remaining concerns, and plan for maintaining what you've learned.

 

What if I'm nervous about starting?

Feeling nervous is very common. Many people are unsure what to expect, especially before the first appointment. Therapists generally expect this and aim to create a respectful, nonjudgmental space where you can move at a pace that feels manageable.

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How does payment work?

To begin therapy, you must have a credit card on file. This is to ensure payment in the event of a no-show or late cancellation. The client has the option to pay using the card on file or by e-transfer. While most insurance companies cover psychotherapy, it is always recommended to check your coverage amount before starting therapy.

 

Does my insurance cover this?

While most insurance companies cover psychotherapy, it is always recommended to check your coverage amount before starting therapy.