What is psychotherapy? (i.e., what are we even doing, and what am I consenting to in the big picture?)

Psychotherapy is a primarily talk-based treatment process that offers a safe and supportive space to work through challenges with your thoughts, feelings, or behaviours in order to help you improve and maintain your mental health and well-being.

What to expect

When we begin therapy, we’ll start by talking about what brings you in and what you’d like to work toward. Your consent stays in your hands throughout the process—you’re always welcome to ask questions, pause, or change your mind. If your goals or our approach shift along the way, I’ll check in with you and make sure you feel comfortable with how we’re moving forward.

Potential benefits

Therapy can lead to improvements in coping skills, self-understanding, mood, relationships, daily functioning, and overall quality of life. Progress looks different for each person and cannot be guaranteed.

Potential risks or adverse outcomes

As you make changes in therapy, it’s normal to sometimes feel more emotional, tired, or stirred up by old memories—or even to notice shifts in your relationships. This is especially true with trauma-focused or exposure-based work, which can feel tough in the moment. We’ll take things at a pace that feels manageable, and you can always tell me if it feels like we’re moving too quickly or too slowly.

Other therapeutic options

There are many options available if you’d like to explore different kinds of support. These can include working with another therapist or approach, joining a group, connecting with your doctor or a psychiatrist, considering medication, using community or crisis services, or exploring self-help and educational resources. At any point, you’re free to ask me for a referral, resources, or even a second opinion.

If you choose not to proceed (or to stop, if you have begun)

You are free to pause or stop therapy at any time. This may mean that your current concerns stay the same or become more difficult, but some people find other kinds of support more helpful or return to therapy at a later point. If you choose to stop, I can offer referrals and help with safety planning if needed.