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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?

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Psychologists and psychiatrists both provide treatment to individuals with emotional problems. Psychology is both a profession and an independent scientific discipline. Psychiatry is a specialization within the field of medicine.  Typically, a psychologist will have a Master or Doctorate degree and a psychiatrist will have a medical degree.  Psychologists help people control and change their behaviour as a primary method of treating problems. Psychiatrists prescribe medication as a primary means of changing people’s behaviour. 

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What are the most common problems for which people seek your help?

 

Majority of my work includes depression and its effects, stress and anxiety, eating disorders and weight, how to improve parenting skills as well as relationship problems.

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How do I select a psychologist?

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Selecting a psychologist can feel personal but it is similar to selecting any other professional. It is good to check the psychologist's training and experience. Talk to the psychologist before making an appointment and see how comfortable you feel. Ask questions about the services that will be provided, so you will not get into something different from what you expected. 

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How often are therapy appointments scheduled?

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The frequency of therapy sessions depends on a number of factors such as the person and the nature of the problem that persists. It typically varies from 1-3 sessions per week, with the average being twice per week. The length of treatment sessions varies with each therapist but is usually between 45-60 minutes.

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What should I expect from my first session?

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The first session is usually spent discussing the issues that have brought you into therapy and the changes that you want to bring into your life. The session will start with taking preliminary details into account such as background history, for example, information about your family, social relationships, work history and any past counselling that you may have done. Based on this information, your psychologist will gain a better understanding of who you are and what might be triggering you.
In the first few sessions, your psychologist will ask you questions about you, your life, and any presenting problems you would like to work on. Prior to your first session, it can be helpful for you to ask yourself what changes you would like to make in your life. The aim of therapy is to work together to help you achieve those changes.

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How do you determine my problem?

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Your psychologist will conduct one or more interviews and may also make you complete one or more psychological test(s).  A diagnosis is then made from the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-V-TR). 

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How many sessions do I need?

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The therapy session is usually 60 minutes in length. How many sessions you require depends on different factors such as your situation, coping strategies you already use, your support network and any previous counselling you may have had. It can be discussed with your psychologist and a fair idea can be made after a few sessions on what they think is an appropriate time frame required by you to address your problems. 

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Can sessions be held anywhere apart from your office?

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I can meet with you anywhere that provides us with privacy and allows for a therapeutic environment. It can be my office or your home. I am available for telephonic consultations along with Video/Audio calls.

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Do you have weekend and evening appointments?

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I work Monday - Saturday from 10 am to 7 pm. Appointments can be scheduled on Sunday if the need arises.

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