So you are thinking about seeing a Psychologist, but you have your reservations and preconceived ideas based on feedback from family and friends…  I don’t feel comfortable telling a stranger my problems, why should I willingly bring up old hurt, let me just bury it, will he make me cry, how many sessions do I need … and so the anxiety builds. These are normal thoughts and feelings. You are a unique individual and together, we will find a solution that best suits you and work at a pace that you are comfortable with.

Google defines a Clinical Psychology as the branch of psychology concerned with the assessment and treatment of mental illnesses and behavioral problems. Although this is true, each psychologist develops their own style and methods accordingly and it is important for you to find a psychologist that will adapt to your unique needs and pace.

That being said, it would be suggestible to leave all preconceived ideas and feedback at the door and be open and honest with Chael about your anxieties and expectations. Chael’s approach to therapy is ‘keeping it real’ and he prefers to develop a strategy around the uniqueness of each situation. Chael creates a non-judgmental, honest environment, which will allow you to, more comfortably and honestly, address your issues and develop yourself towards attaining desired outcomes. One of the biggest reasons that stalemates develop within therapeutic relationships is the failure on the part of the client to openly discuss their negative feelings about their therapist and the process.

It is important to realize that therapy is not a quick fix, and one has to be able to be patient before seeing results, for example, if you expect to address issues you have had for six years in six sessions (6 hours), you will be disappointed.

Chael is actively involved in therapy sessions and will not just sit back and ‘listen’ or provide ‘instructions’ but rather engage with you, and together you and Chael will find solutions. Therapy is a process and will present you with up’s and down’s and some sessions may be more intense than others, trust the process, trust yourself and trust that Chael will push you when he feels that you are ready. Bear with it as long as you can and don’t be afraid to be open regarding your feelings about the process. We’re in it together.

Individual Counselling includes:

• Chronic Illness
• Depression
• Anxiety
• Low self-Esteem
• Mood Disorders
• Stress Management
• Self Development
• Mental Illness and Disorder
• Other