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How to make the most out of therapy
Taking that first step in reaching out for professional help can be one of the hardest steps in the journey to psychological and emotional wellness. Like any relationship, finding the right fit is imperative to long term success and finding the right fit in a psychologist is no exception. Our large team of male and female clinical psychologists are trained across a broad range of areas and draw on evidenced based therapies to work with clients, adapting the therapeutic model to suit client’s individual needs. The combined knowledge and expertise of our team of clinical psychologists complement each other allowing us to service and help a wide range of clients with diverse needs.
Feeling Comfortable
It is important that you feel comfortable with your psychologist and develop a rapport where you can answer those difficult or confronting questions that can naturally feel a bit uneasy. You should feel like your psychologistis batting for you; working with you to achieve a common goal. Professional relationships are two-way to and in order to achieve your goals or resolve underlying issue or concerns, you must give back and commit to the plan that you have collectively composed.
Set some boundaries and expectations
Good communication is key, as is setting some boundaries around your professional relationship, like how often you will have sessions and how and when you can contact your Psychologist between appointments. Your psychologist may discuss your individual therapy needs and the frequency of appointments at the start of therapy. Typically, in the beginning, regular and frequent appointments will be scheduled and gradually this will be tapered off as indicated by therapeutic progress. Attending scheduled appointments will assist in your treatment progress and prevent relapse.
Do your homework
Therapy is most effective when you utilise what you learn in the sessions by integrating it into your everyday life. Typically, most therapy sessions will end with a homework assignment and review the progress with this at the start of the following session. It is also recommended to take notes at the end of each session to help you remember things or to write questions down that you would like to discuss at the next session.
Feeling comfortable, understood and respected are the pillars of success for a strong relationship with your psychologist. With the current state of the world, investing in your health and wellbeing has never been more important. If you feel you need psychological or emotional support at the present time, don’t hesitate to speak to your GP about a mental health plan. The next step is researching your psychologist to find the right fit for you.
To peruse our team of clinical psychologistswho are available both in practice and via telehealth, click here.