We have the answers

Clinical psychology is the branch of psychology that is primarily focused on assessing and treating mental health problems in the form of interpersonal problems; emotional distress in reaction to adverse life events; behavioural problems; and psychiatric disorders. Adult clinical psychology addresses challenges across the post adolescent life span which generally involves working with adults over the age of eighteen. Adult clinical psychologists offer psychotherapy, which includes ongoing assessment as well as psychotherapeutic interventions. Assessment in psychotherapy tends to be ongoing, collaborative, and dynamic as it involves active and transparent participation/communication from both patient and psychologist.

Psychologists have studied human behaviour and the brain (including how people think, feel, learn and behave) and are primarily focused on assessing and treating mental health problems in the form of interpersonal problems; emotional distress in reaction to adverse life events; behavioural problems; and psychiatric disorders. Adult clinical psychologists offer psychotherapy, which includes ongoing assessment as well as psychotherapeutic interventions. Assessment in psychotherapy tends to be ongoing, collaborative, and dynamic as it involves active and transparent participation/communication from both patient and psychologist.

It’s very normal to feel anxious, nervous, or unsure about your first therapy session. Our psychologists and/or social workers will provide a private, comfortable, safe, respectful and non-judgmental place for you to discuss anything you need to.

In the first few sessions, the practitioner will typically ask you questions about yourself, your life, and any presenting problems you would like to work on. Together, you will create a plan of how therapy can assist you with these problems, how many sessions it may take, and how frequently you should meet. Prior to your first session it can be

helpful for you to ask yourself what changes you would like to make in your life. The aim of therapy is for us to then work together to help you achieve those changes.

There is no typical psychology session. Your psychologist is highly trained in listening and providing a safe environment in which to explore your issues. With most types of therapy, you are free to discuss what you wish, including everyday events, dilemmas, feelings, and thoughts. We provide a highly effective, evidence-based psychology treatment and most people find that it is easy to talk once they start their first session.

Most psychology sessions are 50 minutes. This allows the psychologist time to document notes and record any plans before beginning their next appointment. However, we can tailor your session length to suit you. Some people prefer shorter or longer session times. For initial appointments, please try to allow a little extra time for filling out paperwork.

Yes, we are committed to your long-term health. While many issues can be addressed in your initial visit, allergies can often require reassessment over time. We will work with you to ensure continuous care for your or your child’s health.

In the first session with your child, your therapist will often invite you both into the session at the beginning, then ask to see the child by themselves. After this, the therapist will discuss with you the most appropriate structure of future counselling sessions with your child.

In the case of adolescents, depending on the age of your teenager they may wish to see their therapist without their parent present. However, it is recommended that a parent is always available to attend the sessions if needed, and parental consent is needed for under 16s to attend therapy.