Things I may want to know about counselling.
My hope is that we can work together as a team. Counselling is different than talking to a friend, spouse or family member. It is a goal-orientated process with a beginning, middle and end phase. The length of the therapeutic process looks different for everyone, sometimes short-term or long-term, depending on presenting concerns. So it can be difficult to determine how many sessions total are needed. During this time we will work together to gather relevant information, establish goals and work towards achieving your goals via various interventions such as learning new skills and strategies. We may need to reassess goals depending on your situation or review our service agreement if long-term services are provided. Remember you are the expert of your own life. I cannot tell you what to do but my role is to help you recognize the strengths and resiliencies within yourself.
What are my rights as a client?
o You have the right to be treated with dignity and respect
o You have the right to not answer any question asked, say “Yes,” “No,” “I Don’t Know” “Pass” or “Stop” in sessions
o You have the right to ask questions about treatment or skills
o You have the right to end services at any time (please let me know what is not working for you)
o You have the right to choose a different therapist or ask for a referral
o You have the right to pursue other treatment options
o You have the right to review your client file
What can I expect for the first appointment?
Nervousness…… It can be nerve wracking to attend a new place and meet a stranger. I am always a bit nervous meeting a new individual for the first time as well. If you can arrive 15 minutes early to the initial appointment you will be greeted, offered a beverage and will have an opportunity to look over some initial paperwork. Once completed, you will be provided a tour of the space and then asked to make yourself comfortable. We will review essential highlights from the service and payment agreement and you will have an opportunity to ask questions. At that time, we will then begin information gathering about your life, reason for seeking service and hopes for treatment. We then establish therapeutic goals to shape future sessions. This may or may not get completed all in the first session. Please prepare to spend additional time at this first appointment (1.5 hours) due to the thoroughness of information gathering.
How do I get the most out of my sessions?
Life is a bit of a journey with up and downs. The counselling process is also similar with ups and downs that often reflect life circumstances of the individual. Your own desire for change and engagement in the therapeutic sessions can have an impact on outcomes. Attending regular, consistent appointments, practicing skills between sessions and completing assigned “growth work” exercises can help progression of individual therapy. It is also okay to take a break, inquire about referrals or other additional services that might benefit progression of your unique goals.
