Here’s an overview of what happens when you decide you’d like to work with me as your therapist.
The first and most important step is to decide if we are a good fit for each other. The relationship between you and your therapist is a critical factor for successful results. As a clinical psychologist with decades of experience, I’m well equipped to help you, but you need to be able to trust me.
I spend most of my time in sessions with clients, so when you call my office, you will probably speak to my office manager. She’ll take your details and get an overview of your concerns and why you’re calling.
My office manager has worked with me for years and knows a great deal about my work and my approach. If she’s confident I can help and there is space in my diary, she’ll book you in. Sometimes she’s not sure that I’m the right therapist for you. If that’s the case, she’ll organise for me to call you back and speak to your personally. We don’t want you to spend time and money on an appointment unless we believe I can help you.
Whatever your reasons for seeking a therapist, the first appointment is always similar. I need to get to know you. That means I’ll take your history. I need to understand you as a person - that means both the things you usually share and also the other, deeper issues which have brought you to seek help from me.
I’ll ask lots of questions, and I’ll ask you to explain things in your own words, so I can learn about you.
You may find it emotional or difficult. But I'll listen, compassionately and without judgement. I have tissues on hand in case of tears.
At the end of the first session, I’ll make suggestions about how we can work together, including the frequency of sessions and how many you might need. This is based on my assessment of you and on what you’ve told me. If there are things you haven’t shared, or if circumstances change, your therapy needs may change too.
“I miss my Wednesdays with Lisa. She is colorful and wonderful to be in the room with. Sometimes it happens that a person's comments can trigger something from my past no matter how sober I am. Where do these comments take me to? Not good enough, Not smart enough, Not coping in a social situation ? (I believe I was a victim for years.) When this happens I have learnt to sit with it and find my inner strength which brings me back to feeling peaceful. A phrase I love: Fear knocked at the door and Faith opened it. PRAY ! I am 75 and I would recommend Lisa to anyone needing help. My visits, depending on me, could end in love and laughter.”
Sessions take place at my offices in either Orewa or Ponsonby. If necessary, I can offer sessions online, but I find face-to-face meetings more effective, especially for our first session.
My rooms are friendly and comfortable. They come equipped with everything you might need to work on yourself. That includes comfy seats, tissues, and lots of support from me.
So, if I sound like the kind of therapist you could work with, let’s get started.
If you are at risk or in crisis you may wish to contact your GP or local Mental Health Crisis Team through your nearest public hospital.