Q & A

1. Is therapy right for me?

Therapy is right for anyone trying to get more out of his or her life through a conscious effort to make a significant life change. Seeking therapy is an individual choice. There are many reasons why people seek out therapy, ranging from depression and anxiety to just wanting to engage in some personal reflection and growth.

2. Why can’t I just handle my own problems?

There will come a time when you realize, accurately, that you can’t handle things on your own, and that your friends can’t help you, either. Asking for professional support and guidance is a strength, not a weakness. Plus, you learn skills to use later on in life – how to recognize the triggers that got you down, and how to avoid them.

3. How can therapy help me?

Psychologists can provide support, tools, and insight into yourself and your behaviors. They can help you to understand yourself better and to develop skills that:

  • Improve relationships and communication at home and work,
  • Manage stress and anger, and
  • Boost self-confidence and self-esteem.

4. What can I expect?

Here are some things you can expect from therapy:

  • Compassion, respect, and understanding,
  • Perspective to see persistent patterns and negative feelings,
  • Real strategies for enacting positive life changes, and
  • Effective and proven techniques, along with practical guidance.

Most sessions last 50 to 60 minutes, and each one is unique. The number of sessions depends on the nature of your issues and how deeply you wish to explore them. The professional relationship is critical.

You may be given tasks to complete or books to read as “homework”, based on what you need and what might be useful for you. Therapy is most effective when you are an active participant, both during and between sessions. People seeking psychotherapy are willing to take responsibility for their actions, work towards self change, and create greater awareness in their lives.

5. Will my sessions be kept confidential?

In general, all communications between client and psychotherapist are protected by law. No information can be disclosed without prior written permission from the client. However, there are exceptions for the following situations:

  • Child abuse or dependent adult/elder abuse is suspected. The therapist is required by law to report this to the appropriate authorities immediately;
  • The client is threatening serious bodily harm to another person. The therapist is required by law to notify the police; and
  • The client intends to harm himself or herself. The therapist will make every effort to work with the individual to ensure their safety, but if the person does not cooperate, additional measures may be required.

6. Is medication a substitute for therapy?

While medication treats the symptom, therapy addresses the cause. A combination of medication and therapy will best help you achieve continued growth and a sense of well-being over time. Ask your medical doctor to advise what is right for you.

7. Do you accept insurance, and if so, how does it work?

Most insurance plans cover the services of a Psychologist (in other words, Careen) registered with the Ontario College of Psychologists. Further, the services are tax-deductible. To see if you have such coverage, ask your insurance carrier the following questions:

  • What are my mental health benefits?
  • What is the coverage amount per therapy session?
  • How many therapy sessions does my plan cover?
  • How much does my insurance pay for an out-of-network provider?
  • Is approval required from my primary care physician?

Please contact me for an appointment or for more information

© Careen Coetzee