Frequently Asked Questions
How is talking to a therapist/counsellor different from talking to my friends or family?
Talking with friends and family is an excellent source of support and can help in times of need; however, a professional will provide support but also helps facilitate any necessary changes. A counsellor will help you distinguish between your feelings and reactions to situations. They will help you identify any potentially mistaken beliefs in order to help you learn new actions. They will also help you develop realistic feelings, beliefs and understandings that is drawn from careful analysis, education, and therapeutic conversations.
Is it okay for me to ask the therapist questions? If so, what would be important questions to ask?
The working relationship you form with your therapist is significant to the success of the therapy. It is important for you to feel comfortable and confident with your therapist. Some examples of questions therapists are frequently asked are:
- What training and experience do you have?
- Do you belong to a professional association? If so, which ones?
- How many sessions do you want me to commit to? How many do I need?
- How often do you want me to make an appointment?
- Do you feel comfortable discussing my particular concern/dilemma?
- Will you be discussing my case with anyone else?
Is going to see a therapist similar to an admission of failure or personal deficit? Is there something wrong with me?
Seeking the assistance of a counsellor does not imply you have failed or there is something wrong with you. Counselling services are used by many people to aid in their personal development and as part of their well-balanced plan for health care. Many professionals seek help with their career path, couples seek help with their relationship skills, parents seek help parenting, and lonely individuals seek counselling to help change their circumstances. Some people seek the services of a counsellor because they simply have important decisions to make and need an objective and private sounding board. Others suffer from problems such as high anxiety, phobias, depression, abuse, trauma, and addictions and want to overcome these obstacles.