What To Expect From Therapy

WHAT TO EXPECT WHEN YOU GO FOR PSYCHOTHERAPY?

Firstly, find a therapist.  We have a Register of excellent well qualified Psychotherapists.  We use this word to cover counselling, coaching, hypnotherapy and of course psychotherapy.   he therapist you choose will do their best to make you feel at ease and trust in them and in the process of therapy by trying to create what we call a therapeutic alliance with you. 

All the therapists registered with us do understand that this is a huge endeavour for you and will treat you accordingly with respect and empathy.  But they will not have all the answers but will work with you to resolve the issues you bring to them.  

The whole thing is likely to be anxious and emotional for you but the therapy room, whether face to face or online, is a safe environment for you to be honest and explore your emotions.  

Some Do’s…

• Ask about fees and be sure you can afford the costs.  But, please do not decide on affordability, cheap is so rarely often the best.
• Ask about the length of the sessions.
• Ask how many sessions.  This is so difficult for most therapists; we want to help with an answer, but it is truly difficult.  Everyone is unique so estimating how many sessions just places pressure on the therapist to perform and you are on a timeframe to get better and this is counter-productive to your therapy.  Most therapists will suggest say four or more sessions then review the progress.  
• Always carefully read the consent, agreement, contracting, data handling, and other service terms and conditions, they are there to ensure clarity and informed consent.
• Confirm your confidentiality.
• Be Honest.
• Do the Homework you've been set  

Also… Make sure your therapist does the following;

• Make continual assessment of where you are in the process.
• Challenge you.
• Check-in with you.
• Guide you to your agreed goals.
• Help you learn.
• Show acceptance and compassion.
• Treat you as an equal.

During or before your first session the therapist may ask…

• What brought you to therapy?
• What are the signs and symptoms?
• What do you feel is wrong in your life?
• Some questions about your history, including your childhood, education, relationships (family, romantic, friends), your current living situation and your career.

Remember

Your first choice of therapist may not be the one that helps you.  Give your choice of therapist a few sessions and if you do not feel you fit well then tell them.  Chances are if this happens that may well be thinking the same and even bring it up before you do.  

Therapy is to help you, go into it with an open mind and you will succeed in your goals. The NCIP wishes you every success.

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