Frequently asked questions

What can I expect from my first appointment

At your initial appointment Sarah will conduct a thorough assessment to develop an understanding of the issues that you are facing. She will work with you to identify the factors that are maintaining these problems and preventing you from moving forward. She will then assist you in developing specific treatment goals and present you with a treatment plan. This will outline the areas that you will work on together in session, and explain to you the evidence based approaches that will be used in treatment. If this is agreeable to you, you will then be encouraged to book a series of appointments.

How many appointments will I need?

The amount of appointments that you require will vary according to what you are presenting with. The majority of clients will require between 6-10 sessions, however other clients may require longer term work (10-20+). Sarah will be able to clarify what you might expect given the specific issues that you are experiencing. Generally clients will attend sessions weekly initially (if possible) and then will tend to move towards fortnightly after that. Some clients may later attend monthly or bi-monthly to maintain gains.

How do I know which Psychologist to chose?

Choosing a psychologist to work with is a difficult decision. It is very important that you find someone that you feel that you can work alongside and connect with. Research shows that while the type of treatment is important, the outcome of therapy is also impacted considerably by the relationship that you are able to form with the therapist. You should get a sense of whether Sarah is the 'right fit' for you within your first 1-2 sessions. Sarah's main goal is that people are able to move towards a place of wholeness, and she will encourage you to continue to seek this out, if you are not able to find this at 'In House Psychology'.

What do we each contribute to the process?

Sarah works to create a space in therapy in which it is hoped that you may be able to reflect, gain insights and develop more knowledge about yourself and others. As you are giving considerable time, energy and resources to attend treatment Sarah will be proactive in sessions and encourages you to also take an active role in your treatment. To assist in this, you may be asked to complete tasks, practice new skills, read books, view materials and/or engage in new activities that are aimed to assist you in moving towards your goals.