A Psychologist is an expert in human behaviour, having studied the brain, memory, learning, and development in order to better to understand the processes that determine how people think, feel, behave and react. In Australia, a person using the title “Psychologist” must be registered with the Psychology Board of Australia (PsyBA) and must adhere to rigorous standards in order to maintain their registration.
What is a Clinical Psychologist?
A Clinical Psychologist has specialist training in assessing and treating a wide range of mental health difficulties using therapies that are scientifically demonstrated to be effective.
How long is each session?
Each session lasts for approximately 50 minutes.
How many sessions will I need?
The number of sessions needed varies between individuals, depending on a number of factors including the nature of the difficulties someone is seeking help for. Your psychologist will provide an estimate of the number of sessions you may need once they have completed an initial assessment and have discussed your goals for therapy with you. This usually happens in the first or second session.
How often will I need to attend?
Initially, it is recommended that you attend for weekly appointments, as this helps to create momentum and you can begin putting skills and strategies in place early on. As therapy progresses, sessions are gradually spaced out to occur fortnightly and then monthly (or longer).
What will happen at my first appointment?
Your psychologist will spend time trying to gain a thorough understanding of your difficulties and will also attempt to learn more about you and your personal history. This will help your psychologist to gain a holistic view from which to develop your individualised therapy plan that is based on the goals that you have for therapy. If at any stage you are uncomfortable discussing anything in any of your sessions, you are highly encouraged to raise this with your psychologist.
