Therapy

We use a number of different therapeutic approaches, depending on the presenting issues and the client’s needs & concerns. At times there may be the need to use a combination of techniques.

All of the therapies used are best-practice, evidence-based and professionally developed on contemporary peer-reviews research. They include:

  • Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)

  • Psychodynamic Therapy

  • Solution-Focused Therapy

  • Mindfulness-based Therapy

  • Play Therapy (Child-centred and/or Practitioner-directed)

  • Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)

  • Interpersonal Therapy

  • Positive Psychology (Strength-Based)

  • Non-Directive Pregnancy Support Counselling

All treatment plans are discussed with the client to encourage them to be empowered towards reaching their own treatment goals and self-advocacy beyond the clinical setting.

We offer Telehealth counseling sessions ensuring our clients have access to psychological services whether they live remotely, are self-isolating to minimise the spread of the coronavirus, or simply prefer online consultations.

As an essential service, we will continue to operate in-person during a COVID-19 lockdown. However, phone and online consultations are available for all clients who wish to speak to a professional without visiting the practice.

Preparing your Teen (and yourself) For Psychology Sessions.

Communicate Purpose

Emphasize that psychology sessions are an opportunity to express thoughts, feelings, and concerns in a supportive environment. Assure your teen that the psychologist is there to help and support them.

Privacy

Assure your teen that sessions are confidential and their privacy will be respected. Parents may express their concerns with the psychologist but what is spoken about in session will not be shared. Be OK with this.

Normalize the Process

Let your teen know it is normal to seek help from a Psychologist and that many people, including teens, benefit from therapy.

Manage Exceptions

Explain that the psychologist will ask questions to understand their concerns better and that the session is an opportunity for them to openly express their thoughts and emotions.

Encourage Openness

Emphasize the importance of honesty and encourage your teen to be open with the psychologist. Assure them that their feelings and experiences are valid and that the psychologist is there to support them in finding solutions and coping strategies.

Parents be Punctual

Be on time. Teens stress about things adults often don’t consider. Being late to a session increases anxiety. Be aware your teen’s mood going into a session can influence the results of their session. A teen is distracted by their parent’s stress ( traffic/work/money/siblings). This means that they do not focus on their issues as they are fixated on yours.

Follow Up

check-in. offer your support and encourage your teen to share their thoughts about the session if they feel comfortable doing so. Respect their privacy if they chose not to share. They may open up at a later time. this is their time, let them lead.