Frequently Asked Questions
Who might want to see a psychologist?
Psychologists work with a diverse clientele. Some people may seek psychologists out independently or may be encouraged by significant others to seek help from them. Some have been referred by their doctor, employers, Victims Services, solicitors, support group or counselling service, insurers, or other Government Departments and Non-Government Organisations.
Why might I see a psychologist?
People seek out psychologists for a variety of reasons. Typically people may see a psychologist when they feel or know they are not happy. Sometimes it is as general as not feeling good or experiencing a lack of satisfaction with life. At other times people have very specfic reasons such as difficulty in personal relationships, difficulty sleeping, excessive worrying, depleted energy, the experience of stressful or traumatic life events, etc. Either way, psychological treatment can provide the long or short-term support to help you feel the way you want and to help you through difficult times. Talking things through with an understanding and supporting person outside of a persons own life can help to find solutions that work for that person. Together, you and your psychologist will explore ways to enhance your life and address those issues that have been problematic for you.
What can I expect in the psychologist's office?
The psychologist's office is a place where you have an opportunity to confidentially discuss your life with a person that is there to listen and support you. Typically a psychologist will conduct an assessment in the initial session/s and you will be given the opportunity to discuss the problem you are currently experiencing and what you would like to achieve from treatment. The psychologist may also ask you questions about your life in general.
Following this, some initial treatment planning may be discussed with you (and significant others if relevant) so you have an understanding of the treatment process. You will be given the opportunity to raise any issues you would like clarified. Between sessions you may be asked to complete homework tasks to help develop understanding of the problem you are working on and to try out new ways of behaving outside of session time.
Sessions usually last between 50 - 60 minutes although some sessions may be longer for initial consultations and psychological testing.
How long does therapy last?
How long we continue to see a psychologist differs from person to person as we are all unique and treatment must be tailored to meet each clients needs. On average, we see people for six to twelve sessions. However, fewer or more sessions may be required.
What is the purpose of undergoing a psychological assessment?
The purpose of a psychological assessment is to obtain information from the client about his/her abilities and attributes, state of mind, and current level of function. The psychologist uses this information to develop an understanding of the client's condition and to implement appropriate treatment and therapy.
Who should undergo a psychological assessment?
A psychological assessment is suitable for anyone who has been identified as having special intellectual abilities or disabilities and in cases where a disorder warranting expert assessment is suspected.
What is involved in a psychological assessment?
A psychological assessment usually involves two phases: a face to face interview; and testing, using psychological assessment measures. We endeavour to make the assessment process as stress-free as possible and no special preparation on part of the client is necessary. Where appropriate, the client may benefit from thinking beforehand about the issues he/she wants to discuss and explore with the psychologist.
What is involved in a psychological treatment program?
Based on the results of the psychological assessment, the psychologist will develop a negotiated treatment program designed to address and manage the issues of concern. This may also involve liaison with the family medical practitioner.
Psychological treatment programs will vary from client to client and will be tailored to meet individual needs. Generally however, treatment programs usually involve learning new skills, such as cognitive behavioural strategies, to deal with the symptoms of the problem or disorder. They will focus on challenging negative thinking patterns and assisting individuals to ‘frame' their current life experiences. Sessions may also provide training in stress management, self-esteem improvement, communication and assertiveness skills, problem-solving skills, and relapse prevention.