Frequently asked questions
What is Psychotherapy?
Psychotherapy provides a safe, supportive, objective, non-judgmental and confidential setting in which individuals can share their thoughts and emotions with the aim of enhancing their understanding of the complexities of their mind and, ultimately, improving their overall well-being.
The crucial factor in psychotherapy is the collaborative therapeutic relationship between the therapist and the client. The therapist may guide clients in their process of self-discovery and provide various tools to help disentangle and structure the issues they may be struggling with. However, the essence of psychotherapy lies in the principle that every individual follows a unique path to heal, grow and transform. As such, therapists may be seen as holding a map that leads to the goal of a happy, balanced mind, but the client chooses which route to achieve this by.
Is Psychotherapy going to work for me?
The effectiveness of psychotherapy depends on various factors, in particular the therapeutic relationship. You may deal with a lot of previously unexplored emotion and psychotherapy can be quite catalytic. You may be quite settled and require support in a less deep-rooted issue. The key is acceptance and trust that anything you bring to a session will be handled with care, understanding and openness. The majority of individuals who experience a good working relationship with their therapist feel comfortable in sharing what is on their minds and find psychotherapy very beneficial. Psychotherapy goes beyond the listening a friend can offer, by providing concrete tools that will help enhance your skills in various areas, including social and interpersonal communication, attention and cognitive skills, and emotional literacy and regulation. Many clients find that exploring various avenues of their mind helps them to break self-destructive patterns they have been living and brings them to an equilibrium from which they feel more confident and calm in tackling upcoming challenges.
What is the Difference between a Psychologist and a Psychiatrist?
A psychologist differs from a psychiatrist in that psychologists focus on working with the client’s expressed thoughts and behaviours while psychiatrists treat biochemical imbalances in the brain with medication when required. Psychologists, psychotherapists and counsellors do not prescribe medication.
What can I expect from Psychotherapy Consultations?
Sessions last approximately 50 minutes each. During the first one, Dr. Terrighena will assess the specific issue(s) the client would like to address as well as explaining some potential management techniques and recommending an estimate on how many sessions may be helpful for the presented challenges. There is no minimum requirement regarding how many sessions you choose to attend.
How many Sessions will I need?
Every journey is unique. There is no fixed number of sessions required. Dr. Terrighena will recommend the therapy duration in the first session based on an initial assessment and tailored to each individual circumstance. Some clients wish to address a specific issue, while others may wish to utilize therapy as a vehicle to deepen their understanding of themselves for extended periods of time. You have full control over whether you decide to pursue these collaborative sessions. Throughout the continuation of your therapy, you and Dr. Terrighena will hold regular reviews to evaluate how beneficial you are finding the sessions and whether you would like to make any adjustments. Psychotherapy sessions will typically be scheduled once a week to once a fortnight.
Cancellation Policy
Cancellations up to 24 hours prior to the scheduled session are free. Late cancellation (less than 24 hours prior) result in full charge of the session fee.
Confidentiality
All information shared during psychotherapy is kept strictly confidential, with a few exceptions:
If mandated by law by means of court order, in case of accusation of misconduct or if client gives written consent to disclose information
If client poses imminent danger to themselves or others, e.g. suicide or violence threats, or in case of medical emergencies
In case of potential or clear physical or sexual abuse of vulnerable individuals, including minors, elders or disabled
Disclaimer
Please note that Mind Balance is not an emergency hotline and may take 1-2 working days to respond. In cases of emergency or imminent danger, or if you need to see someone outside of work hours, please contact Queen Mary Hospital 2855 3111, The Samaritans on 2896 0000 or a charity/medical organization of your choosing.