Do I need therapy?
Everyone at times experiences difficult thoughts and feelings. Life can be stressful, decisions complex and relationships fluctuating. Usually this is all part of the ordainary ‘ups and downs’ of life.
Sometimes, however, difficulties can become overwhelming and too difficult to manage alone. When problems start to impact on our self-esteem, as well as our personal, social and professional lives, we can feel stuck, frustrated and helpless.
When talking to friends and family isn’t enough or doesn’t feel comfortable, talking with a Psychologist can offer insight to ongoing patterns and uncover more helpful ways of being. Therapy gives an opportunity to reevaluate and make changes. It provides a space to be heard and to grow.
How does therapy work?
Psychologists use the knowledge and skills they have gained via academic study, based on research of patterns of thinking, feeling, behaviour and relating and via their own clinical experience. They use talking therapy and sometimes other expressive forms, such as writing or drawing, to help the client(s) understand themselves and their lives and, if necessary, help them make beneficial changes.
Research shows that therapy works (e.g. Wampold, 2001). Actually more important than the type of therapy, is the therapist as a person and the quality of the therapeutic relationship. An empathic therapist and a relationship built on trust, motivation and collaboration between client and therapist are the most important factors.
What is therapy like? Will I need to lie down?
Both client and therapist sit on comfortable chairs. I spend the initial sessions focusing on getting to know the client: the background, lifestyle, hopes and dreams and coping strategies, as well as the difficulties. From then on, sessions vary according to the needs of the client. Sessions may be exploratory and unstructured or they may be therapist-directed, for example, exercises to try at home may be suggested.
What’s the benefit of combining therapy models? Shouldn’t we just pick one?
My training in Clinical Psychology in London gave me the opportunity to study a number of classic and contemporary models. This has allowed me to develop a ‘tool bag’ of skills for the client. I believe in working integratively, in order to provide the client with the best fit for his/her needs, difficulties and personality style. See therapeutic approach for more information.
How long does therapy take?
This very much depends of the goals of the individual(s). If you would like to work on something specific, for example, a phobia, satisfactory results may be seen within 6-10 sessions. If, however, you would like to work on more complex issues or to gain a deeper understanding of yourself and your experiences then therapy will take longer.
Is therapy expensive?
Beginning therapy is undoubtedly a financial, as well as an emotional and time commitment. Many clients view therapy not just as a way of improving the current situation, but also as a long-term investment into their future quality of life. For example, therapy can lead to an increase in self-esteem, more satisfying relationships, better communication skills and a greater ability to cope with stress. Furthermore, in the long-term, therapy may, in fact, have a positive financial effect, for example, by developing the confidence to pursue career goals or the clarity to manage personal finances.
How often can I book to see you?
Most clients (and clinicians) find that meeting once a week is the most beneficial frequency. If the client feels they would like results faster, or would like a more intensive support structure then sessions are held more regularly. In some cases it is appropriate to meet on a less frequent basis, for example, during the ending phases of therapy, or due to particular life commitments.
If you would like to book an appointment, click here.
Is it easy to get to the clinic?
The clinics are located centrally in Tel Aviv and Pardes Hanna. There are ample bus routes and reasonably priced parking for the Tel Aviv clinic here. The Pardes Hanna clinic has plenty of street parking outside and is located close to Binyamina and Pardes Hanna train stations.
Dr. Lisa Law, ClinPsyD 
February 11, 2010 at 9:21 pm
[…] of the most frequently asked questions about therapy is whether it is worth the expense? Certainly beginning a course of therapy is a financial commitment and of course we want to know […]