There are many reasons to seek out counselling, but one of the most important factors is the desire for individual change. Whether the change involves dealing with struggles from the past, fears of the future or current day to day challenges. Counselling can provide insight into these challenges and tools to overcome them.
Addressing concerns with friends and family who are close to you does not always give you the opportunity to discuss things as open as you may desire. Getting a non-biased third party perspective is sometimes all it takes to make the choices that lead to a life of self-awareness and balance.
As such counselling is right for anyone with a desire to learn more about getting the most out of life.
Challenges are a normal part of everyone’s lives. Sometimes they are easy to manage whereas other times we struggle. Just because I can usually handle my problems does not mean that counselling will not benefit you, in fact there are many tools that people could be using daily which would make life that much more manageable. Seeking counselling should be considered a strength for people who know that they need support.
Medication is often considered the band-aid solution, though it may help you feel better it does not always help resolve the underlying issues. With counselling tools and skills are provided to address life struggles and challenges which medication can not address. However, in some circumstances a combination of medication and therapy is the right course of action.
Speak with your medical doctor if you have questions and they may be able to help determine what is best for you.
As a Registered Psychologist, my services may be covered in whole or in part by your extended health policy or employee assistance program. Please check the details of your individual or family policy for more information.
Essentially everything that is brought up in session will be kept in the strictest of confidence. The only reason information would be disclosed is because you provided written permission to disclose information to a specific party.
However, there are three exceptions required by law that all psychologists must breach confidentiality. Exceptions include:
- Reasonable suspicion of child abuse or neglect or abuse/neglect of a dependent adult.
- Threats of serious bodily harm to self or others
- Court orders and subpoenas