Do I need to be ‘crazy’ to see a Psychologist?
No. And ‘crazy’ is an unhelpful label, but one that many potential clients may worry about. Every client has strengths and capabilities… but also coping mechanisms that may no longer serve them. I serve as a sounding board or mirror to my clients. Many are high achievers in life, looking for an impartial perspective. Others have had mental health-related diagnoses and seek tailored support. I am amazed at the strength my clients bring to their lives (even if they do not think they are strong!)
Can you fix me… or others?
No. No one can ‘fix’ another. You cannot change people. Yet as a trained Psychologist, I can provide a safe environment for my clients to change. Change may lead to adaptations to what is in want of ‘fixing’. I tell my clients that we should aim for ‘5 to 10 per cent better’. This is to set a realistic stance in the collaboration between my client and me. The most crucial lens I provide in my therapy room is a non-judgmental lens. Thus, you may feel safe and very much seen. This safe and understanding environment serves as a mirror for how you see yourself, your coping mechanisms, how you experience feelings, and the behaviours you either do or might want to take.
What happens in sessions?
The first few sessions focus on setting therapeutic boundaries and conducting an assessment. The boundaries are around confidentiality, engaging in therapy, and seeing if we are a fit. This fit can be around the likely strength of our collaboration, and whether I have the scope of practice and skills to support you best. Sometimes I may refer you to another provider who is a better match. If I refer you, it is a decision not taken lightly and is based on sound ethics and clinical judgement.
Our first few sessions are also about setting your therapy goals. These goals are different for each client. The sessions thereafter are about working towards our treatment goals – realistic goals that work for you. It may take time to achieve those goals – after all, the habits and circumstances that lead you to therapy may have taken years. It may not take years to ‘undo’ those habits or ingrained parts of you, but it does take sustained effort.
Both of us do the ‘heavy lifting’ in our therapeutic partnership.
Do Psychologists prescribe medication?
No. Medical doctors (including General Practitioners and Psychiatrists) prescribe medication. Psychologists think about how drugs affect clients. They also consider any contraindications and possible side effects.
How many sessions will I need?
It depends on you. Sometimes clients need a sounding board for two sessions. For example, a vexing family problem needs an impartial perspective. Yet some of my clients have worked with me for over one year, as their treatment goals evolve. My answer is probably not different to other Psychologists, either in Western Sydney or across Australia.