Therapy involves meeting with a psychologist to explore one’s behaviour patterns, attitudes, thoughts, beliefs, emotions, relationships and experiences which may be problematic or causing distress. This exploration assists a person in gaining a deeper understanding of who they are and why they behave in the way that they do. Therapy can assist in equipping individuals with the necessary tools and (healthy) coping strategies necessary to navigate through life’s challenges. Through enhanced awareness, support and guidance, therapy can help people to live healthier, more rewarding lives.

Everyone faces difficulties at some point or another. Sometimes we can overcome these challenges in our own capacity, or with the help of our loved ones. But this is not always as effective as we would like. In situations where you continue to struggle and are not able to function optimally, it may be beneficial to enter into a therapy process – where an objective, trained mental health care professional can assist.

It’s important to understand though, that you don’t need to have hit ‘rock bottom’ or have been diagnosed with a mental health condition in order to benefit from therapy. In reality, therapy can be for anyone who wishes to gain a better understanding of themselves or receive additional support in addressing any difficulties or concerns that they may be experiencing. Sometimes we just need a safe space where we can share (and process) our life experiences and stories with someone who cares.

Therapy is a place where you can talk about whatever you want – without the fear of being criticised or judged. Nothing is off limits. There is no issue that is too big or too small that can’t be discussed with me. Some people find it difficult to open-up or feel unsure about how to discuss what’s bothering them. If that’s you, don’t worry, I will be there to guide and support you throughout the entire process.

Our therapeutic relationship will be built on trust and confidentiality. I cannot and will not tell anyone what you have shared with me, or even that you are in a therapy process – without first obtaining your written consent. I take your privacy very seriously and will always work to ensure that it is protected.

However, in certain exceptional situations, legal and professional rules may force me to disclose information about a client. This will include:

• Emergency situations (if a client is at real risk of harming him/herself or someone else)
• Statutory duty (certain acts of law require me to disclose information e.g. in cases of suspected child abuse)
• Court orders (if I am subpoenaed by a court of law)

During our first session, I will be conducting what is known as an intake assessment. This basically involves me asking you a number of questions about your symptoms, personal history, relationships etc. Through doing so, I can get a better understanding of who you are and what it is that has brought you to therapy. You will also be provided with the opportunity to ask questions, discuss your expectations, and decide on your goals for therapy.

Our initial time together will be helpful in determining whether we will be able to build a strong, therapeutic relationship with one another – which is an extremely important component of the therapy process. You want to find the “right” psychologist for you.

The duration of a standard therapy session is usually 51-60 minutes for adults and 41-50 minutes for children.

The frequency and duration of therapy will depend on your individual needs. We generally start with weekly sessions, but this can be adjusted depending on your current needs and available resources.

As a psychologist, I am trained to diagnose and treat mental health conditions using psychotherapy (or talk therapy). I don’t prescribe medication as this is outside my scope of practice. In cases where I believe that medication may be useful, I will refer clients to a psychiatrist (or GP) for further assessment.

If you need to cancel or reschedule a session, I ask that you let me know at least 24 hours’ in advance. There is often a great demand for psychological services, and by giving me enough notice, I can offer the appointment slot to someone on my waiting list. If it’s possible, I will try to find another time to reschedule our appointment.

Yes, the practice is easily accessible for wheelchair users. The ablution facilities are also wheelchair friendly.

Feel free to contact me between 09:00 and 17:00 (Monday to Friday). Please note that I am not always immediately available to answer calls or messages, as I may be in session with a client. I will however respond to you as soon as I am able to (during the above-mentioned times).

In the case of an emergency, if you are unable to reach me (or another mental health care professional) and feel as though you cannot wait, contact your General Practitioner (GP) or the nearest hospital.

Other emergency contact information:

• Adcock Ingram Depression and Anxiety Helpline – 0800 70 80 90
• Akeso Psychiatric Response Unit – 0861 435 787
• Cipla 24hr Mental Health Helpline – 0800 456 789
• Lifeline – 0861 322 322
• South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG) – 0800 567 567
• South African Suicide Crisis Helpline – 0800 12 13 14