Introduction
Psychotherapy can be a transformative experience, offering you a safe and non-judgmental space to explore your thoughts, emotions, and behaviours. Therapy can also be daunting first step for many due to the uncertainty of the process and societal stigmas around mental health and seeking help. In this article, we break down what you can expect from counselling sessions and how evidence-based therapies work to support your mental well-being.
What is Psychotherapy?
Psychotherapy, or counselling, involves working with a trained mental health professional to understand and address emotional and behavioural challenges, to explore ones thoughts, difficulty processing or adjusting to traumatic experiences or merely struggling to cope with life’s demands. Therapy aims to assist clients in navigating their problem areas while utilizing evidence based therapeutic modalities such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy or Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. The therapist will advise on the therapeutic modality (a means of understanding the problem areas) that will be used to achieve the therapeutic goals. The therapeutic goals will be outlined within the first few sessions. Whether you are a child, adolescent, or adult, the process is tailored to your unique needs.
The frequency of the therapy is based on the clients needs and functioning. The most common is weekly sessions as this provides consistency and momentum for processing emotions, building skills and addressing deeper issues. However, biweekly and monthly sessions are recommended to allow clients to practice skills, for maintenance and on-going supportive measures.
The therapist-client relationship is of utmost importance as forms is the foundation of the therapeutic process. If a client feels uncomfortable in the therapy space or cannot be their authentic selves, it is strongly recommended that you share this information with your therapist. Being honest about how you feel and what you think matters!
The Process Explained
- Initial Consultation: A brief telephonic consultation is the first step, allowing you to discuss your concerns, ask questions and discuss the financial aspects of the process.
- Assessment and Intake: For children and adolescents, this often involves a parental interview, individual assessments and obtaining collateral, while adults undergo a comprehensive intake to map out their history and current challenges.
- Developing a Treatment Plan: Based on your needs, the therapist collaborates with you to create a personalised treatment plan that sets clear goals and outlines the path to improvement.
- Evidence-Based Approaches: Techniques such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Rational Emotive Behaviour Therapy (REBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) are often used to create lasting change.
Confidentiality and Information protection
People are hesitant to seek help due to the concern regarding the sharing of personal and vulnerable information Psychotherapy is a confidential process, which is in alignment with the National Health Act No 61. of 2003. The act states that all clients have the right to confidentiality. However, there are circumstances where a therapist is advised to divulge confidential information for example in circumstances where the client is of harm to themselves or others, with the express consent of a client, with written consent of a parent or guardian of a minor under the age of 12 years, in the public interest, and at the instruction of the court.
The clients personal information protected in encrypted electronic formats. The personal information gathered will be used exclusively to direct the therapy sessions to reach a mutually agreed upon goal or outcome. The personal information provided is on a voluntary basis, however, withholding information will likely have a negative effect on the therapy.
Conclusion
Understanding the psychotherapy process can demystify counselling and ease any apprehension about seeking help. If you’re curious about how counselling could benefit you or your loved ones, contact us today for a telephonic consultation. Embrace the opportunity to grow, heal, and transform your life.