What is Counselling - Therapy?

Discover the Essence of Counselling - Therapy

Therapy, also known as counselling, is a collaborative process where a therapist listens attentively and supports you in navigating various aspects of your experiences. It encompasses a wide range of challenges, such as problematic behaviors, beliefs, emotions, relationship dynamics, and somatic responses within your body. Embarking on therapy can be a significant stride towards embracing your healthiest self and living a fulfilling life, irrespective of the obstacles you encounter. Through the therapeutic journey, you gain the opportunity to explore self-destructive patterns, heal emotional wounds, cultivate healthier relationships, and more.

However, it's important to note that my approach to therapy deviates from the typical. In my practice, I strongly incorporate elements of Breathwork, Mindfulness, and body-based interventions. These modalities ground you in the present moment, allowing you to tune into your authentic feelings rather than fixating solely on thoughts about your emotions. I strive to help you recognise that relying solely on "thinking" to solve problems and attain happiness may have fallen short. In fact, it might have left you feeling disheartened. Often, we overlook a fundamental truth - that we have been neglecting our internal state all along. Engaging in incessant intellectualisation and analysis of our issues serves as a convenient escape from genuinely experiencing our emotions, staying with them, and cultivating self-love amidst their presence. This is where I step in and introduce an alternative approach to therapy and counselling that can yield remarkable benefits.

Together, we embark on a transformative journey that transcends conventional talk therapy. By integrating Breathwork, Mindfulness, and body-focused practices, we unlock new insights and facilitate profound growth. This approach fosters a deeper connection with yourself, explores the wisdom of your body, and paves the way for transformative healing and self-acceptance.

Welcome to a therapeutic path that honors the power of feelings and nurtures a compassionate relationship with yourself. With a fresh perspective on therapy and counselling, we open doors to lasting change and well-being.

Recognising when Therapy & Counselling can be helpful 

Understanding when seeking the assistance of a counsellor may be beneficial is an important step towards nurturing your well-being.

Counselling and therapy sessions are diverse, reflecting the unique needs of individuals seeking support. People from all walks of life turn to counsellors and therapists for various reasons. It could be prompted by a specific issue or problem they aim to resolve, or during times of crisis.

These issues may range from traumatic incidents to anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, grief, struggles with addiction, or a general sense of exhaustion and confusion about the next steps in life. Keep in mind that you don't need a specific reason to engage in counselling. Sometimes, a simple desire to talk and seek support is enough.

Counselling might be beneficial for you if you have been grappling with a persistent concern or difficulty for an extended period, and you find it challenging to navigate on your own. If your well-being is being significantly impacted, resulting in depression, anxiety, or stress, seeking counselling can provide valuable support and guidance. However, it's important to remember that you don't need to justify or validate your need for counselling. If you feel the need to talk or seek support, that in itself is a valid reason to engage in counselling.

Reaching out for help is a courageous step towards prioritising your mental and emotional well-being. Counselling offers a safe space to explore your thoughts, feelings, and challenges with the guidance and support of a professional. It's an opportunity to gain insight, and foster personal growth.

If you resonate with any of the above and feel the need for support, don't hesitate to explore the option of counselling. Your well-being matters, and reaching out is the first step towards a more fulfilling and balanced life.

4 Signs It May Be Time to See a Therapist or Counsellor

1. Persistent Stress is Impacting Your Daily Life
If anxiety, stress, or depression is causing ongoing distress and making it difficult to function or focus, professional support could help you regain balance and clarity.

2. Other Approaches Haven’t Worked
Have you tried self-help methods, counselling, or alternative modalities without lasting improvement? A therapist can offer fresh insights and tailored strategies to help you move forward.

3. Unhealthy Coping Mechanisms Are Becoming a Pattern
If you’re relying heavily on substances, addictive behaviors, or other unhealthy coping strategies, it’s essential to recognize when they start to interfere with your well-being. Therapy can help you develop healthier and more effective ways to manage stress.

4. You Feel Misunderstood or Unsupported
If you’ve struggled to find true understanding from those around you, or feel judged when sharing your experiences, a therapist provides a safe, non-judgmental space where you can express yourself freely and gain the support you need.

Seeking therapy is a step toward clarity, growth, and healthier ways to navigate life’s challenges.

If you are dealing with depression, anxiety, relationship problems, addiction, trauma, job issues, or looking for life's purpose, therapy can help. You don’t have to face these challenges by yourself. A therapist or counsellor can provide the support and tools you need to work through difficulties and improve your well-being. Asking for help is a strong and empowering step towards taking care of yourself and growing personally.

Isn't it more beneficial to solve my problems independently?

It's natural to wonder if you should tackle challenges on your own. However, reaching out to a therapist or counsellor doesn't mean they'll solve your problems for you. Their role is to provide guidance and support, helping you understand your issues and empowering you to find your own solutions.

Therapy fosters self-awareness and independence rather than dependency. A good therapist creates a safe, non-judgmental space for you to explore your thoughts and feelings. They offer insights and strategies to support your growth and development. In this collaborative process, you learn the tools needed to face challenges and make positive changes in your life.

Working with a therapist allows for valuable self-reflection and resilience building. They help you connect with your inner strengths and wisdom. Ultimately, the responsibility for decisions and personal growth lies with you.

Remember, seeking help is a brave step towards better well-being and growth. It’s a partnership where you engage in change, with the therapist guiding you. If you're facing difficulties or need clarity, consider working with a therapist or counsellor. They can provide the support and tools to aid your journey of self-discovery and growth.

Choosing a Counsellor

When looking for a counsellor, it's crucial to find someone who matches your needs. The most important factor is the connection between you and the counsellor. It’s about finding a "good fit." Trust your intuition, as this process is personal.Is it Difficult for You to Share and Discuss Your Feelings? Let's Find a Way that Works for You.

Is My Concern Significant Enough for Counselling?

There’s no scale to measure how serious a problem is when seeking counselling. Your feelings are valid, no matter how big or small the issue seems. What matters is how it affects you and any discomfort it causes.

If you're feeling any struggle or discomfort in life, it's important to recognize and deal with it. Counselling offers a safe space to explore your emotions, helping you gain clarity, find new perspectives, and develop coping strategies.

Remember, seeking counselling is a way to care for yourself and grow personally. It’s an opportunity to focus on your emotional well-being and improve your life. I am here to listen, understand, and support you, no matter how significant you think your concern is.

What to Expect During Your First Counselling Session

In our first counselling session, I want to reassure you that you'll be treated as an individual, not just a number. We’ll start a personalized journey together. I may ask you a simple question like, "What emotions are you feeling that led you to seek my help?" We’ll discuss your response and let the conversation flow naturally.

This initial session is important as it sets the stage for our work together and helps build our therapeutic relationship. You’ll have the chance to talk openly about what’s on your mind. There’s no fixed process; I’ll listen to your thoughts and feelings, offering a safe and supportive space for you to share. Through this, you’ll start to gain clarity about your situation, while I learn how to best support you.

This session is just the start of our journey. As we move forward, we'll look deeper into your challenges, identify patterns, and create strategies to help you overcome obstacles and reach your goals. We'll work together on your unique experiences, aiming for healing and personal growth.

I prioritize creating a trusting environment and value your individuality, believing in your potential for change and self-discovery. You’re not alone in this; I’m here to guide you. I look forward to our first session and supporting you on your path to well-being and transformation.

Counselling Therapy Session Duration: Your Choice, Recommended Approach

During the initial counselling session, we allocate 90 minutes to ensure we have sufficient time to explore your concerns, establish rapport, and gain a comprehensive understanding of your unique circumstances. This extended session allows for a thorough and meaningful start to our therapeutic journey together.

After the initial session, you have the flexibility to choose between 1-hour or 1.5-hour sessions, depending on your preferences and specific needs. However, I highly recommend continuing with 90-minute sessions for optimal therapeutic benefit. The longer duration allows for a deeper exploration of your experiences, emotions, and challenges, facilitating a more comprehensive and transformative therapeutic process.

That being said, I understand that there may be situations where a shorter session is desired or necessary. If you require a shorter session, please let me know, and I will be more than happy to accommodate your request.

How much does counselling cost?

Complimentary 10-Minute Phone Consultation: Your Opportunity to Connect

I offer individual counselling sessions with a duration of 1.5 hours (90mins), priced at $240. This extended session allows us ample time to delve into your concerns, explore your emotions, and work towards meaningful change.

If you prefer a shorter session, I also offer 1-hour (60mins) appointments at a cost of $215. This option provides a more condensed time frame while still providing a focused and effective therapeutic experience.

For couples seeking support, I offer 1.5-hour sessions priced at $365. These sessions create a safe space for both partners to engage in open and constructive dialogue, promoting understanding, connection, and growth.

I believe that investing in your well-being is invaluable, and I strive to provide a high standard of care and support during our sessions. Your journey towards personal growth and healing is unique, and I am dedicated to tailoring our sessions to meet your individual needs.

If you have any questions or would like further clarification on pricing or session lengths, please don't hesitate to reach out. I am here to ensure that you have a clear understanding of the services provided and to assist you in making an informed decision about your therapeutic journey.

Important: Cancellation Policy - Please Read

Please note our cancellation policy: A minimum of 36 hours' notice is required if you need to cancel or reschedule an appointment. This allows me to offer the time slot to another client in need. In the event that less than 36 hours' notice is provided, or if you fail to attend your scheduled appointment, the full session fee will be required before further sessions can be scheduled.

I understand that emergencies happen beyond your control, and I want to be sensitive to those situations. If you experience an emergency that prevents you from attending your appointment, the session fee will be waived.

I kindly ask for your understanding and cooperation in adhering to our cancellation policy. By doing so, you help me maintain a smooth and efficient practice, while also allowing me to serve other clients effectively.

If you have any questions or need to reschedule an appointment, please contact me as soon as possible. I appreciate your commitment to your well-being and value your cooperation in honouring the cancellation policy.

Thank you for your understanding, and I look forward to continuing to support you on your journey towards personal growth and healing.

How often should I see a counsellor?

How often you attend counselling is up to you, based on your needs. At the start, I suggest weekly or every other week sessions to help you gain momentum and make progress. This regularity creates a supportive space for you to explore yourself and understand what influences your life.

Consistent sessions allow us to dig deeper into your experiences, thoughts, and emotions. They provide a safe environment for your growth.

Ultimately, the choice of how often to meet is yours. Some might continue with weekly or biweekly sessions, while others gradually move to less frequent appointments as they progress.

Counselling is a team effort, and I’m here to support you. We will find a session frequency that fits your journey and encourages exploration of all areas of your life. Whether you choose weekly, biweekly, or another schedule, I’m dedicated to helping you on your path of self-discovery and transformation.

Who do I work with?

I work with people from all backgrounds, welcoming those aged 16 and up. My practice is inclusive and non-judgmental. Regardless of your age, beliefs, ethnicity, gender, occupation, or past experiences, you will find a safe and supportive space here. Many clients are new to therapy or have had negative experiences before. I aim to offer a unique approach that caters to your needs and promotes healing and growth.

With a diverse background that includes Maori, Pakeha, and Indian heritage, I understand and respect the various perspectives of my clients. No matter your story, I am here to listen, support, and guide you on your journey to well-being and personal change.

What to Expect During the Free Consultation Call

The free consultation call focuses on your unique situation. It’s your chance to share concerns, ask about my methods, and see what it’s like to talk with me. You can express your needs, goals, and challenges. This conversation helps us explore how I can support your healing and growth.

By the end of the 10-minute call, you should feel if you’re comfortable and connected with me as your counsellor. Trust and rapport are vital for a successful therapeutic relationship.

The call also gives me insight into your needs and expectations. If I feel I’m not the right counsellor for you, I’ll refer you to others who might be a better fit. Your well-being and getting the right support are my top priorities.

Please feel free to ask questions during the call. It’s important for you to feel clear and confident in your decision to work with me. Together, we will determine if we are a good match and if I can assist you effectively.

I look forward to our conversation to better understand your needs and guide you toward your well-being.

Do You Offer Online Counselling Sessions?

I understand that attending in-person sessions may not always be possible, so I offer online counselling via Zoom or Google Meets. This lets us connect and work together from anywhere.

In our online sessions, we can discuss your concerns, tackle challenges, and focus on your personal growth and well-being. Sometimes, we can also include online breathwork for a more holistic approach to therapy.

If you're interested in online counselling or have questions, please reach out for a free 10-minute chat. This allows us to connect, discuss your needs, and see if online counselling is a good fit for you.

I prioritize your comfort and confidentiality, aiming to create a secure online space. Together, we can address issues, explore your feelings, and help you lead a more meaningful life.

Don't hesitate to contact me for your free 10-minute discussion and explore online counselling options. I'm here to support you, whether in person or online.

Flexible Consulting Hours to Suit Your Schedule

I know how important it is to find appointment times that fit with your busy schedule. I offer sessions from Monday to Friday, 7:30 am to 7:30 pm, and some weekend availability depending on your needs. Whether you prefer mornings, afternoons, or evenings, I’m here to find a time that works for you.

Creating a comfortable and convenient space for our sessions is important, so you can focus on your well-being without worrying about other commitments. To find a suitable time, please contact me to discuss your scheduling preferences.

Keep in mind that appointment availability may change, so it’s best to reach out soon to secure your preferred time. I aim to meet your needs and make our sessions fit into your lifestyle. I look forward to connecting with you and arranging our sessions at a time that works for you.