Your Road Map to Therapy

If you’ve never been to a therapist, you might be wondering what the process looks like. Imagine that you and your therapist are copiloting your journey. While taking a random tour can be pleasant and non-stressful, the most productive way to reach your destination is to have a general map to act as a guide…this isn’t saying we can’t stop and take time to explore some interesting detours.

First session - 90 minutes are offered for the price of a 60 minute session to allow extra time to share your story, concerns, and discuss a focus for your therapeutic goals. A biopsychosocial assessment will be completed (a biological, psychological, and social history), with strengths or resources being identified for use in treatment. Most importantly, rapport and trust will begin to be built between you and your therapist.

Second session - Your therapist will have done their homework and conceptualized some relevant treatment plans. The plans will identify the problem and set a timeline for treatment; this timeline may be vague or outline specific milestones to measure progress towards the defined goals. As we provide a client-centred approach, you will choose the treatment plan that fits you best. Assessments may occur. At the end of the session, homework will be given that will help you develop strategies and/or complete a specific self-exploration exercise.

Ongoing sessions - These will include a check-in from the past week(s) experience and homework. How this conversation goes will guide the rest of the session e.g. working through any ‘blocks’ to completing homework or working on next steps. Homework will be given at the end of each session for the purpose of transforming unhealthy thoughts, feelings, behaviours, and breaking negative cycles while developing positive thoughts and behaviours. You will be given the opportunity to regularly evaluate the effectiveness of the therapy you are receiving.

Final session - In the last session, we will review your progress in reference to the objectives and goals over the course of the therapeutic relationship. Strengths and coping strategies, new and pre-existing, will be acknowledged and celebrated. In conclusion, your therapist will invite you to use their services again if ever the need arises.