Susan Wall

With mental health increasingly in the headlines, psychologist – ahead of Psychology Week starting on Monday – debunks misconceptions about therapy and explains how to get the most out of it.

what happens behind those closed doors.

What I know from nearly 30 years of practice, is that there is no ‘typical’ person to seek treatment. Clients have ranged from children as young as four to adults in their 80s, among them individuals, families, couples, people on a benefit, those facing redundancy and even CEOs.

The reasons people come, varies greatly: because life might not feel right, they’re not satisfied at work, a loved one has passed, they have a life-threatening illness, they’re being bullied, they keep getting into relationships with the wrong people, they suffer panic attacks, they have regrets ... and so on, and so on.

So, what could you expect if you gave it a go?

Well, on arrival you’ll notice there is no couch. Instead, just a couple of chairs, and a coffee table. And then dialogue happens. Yup, a two-way dialogue. And what forms is a partnership between you and the professional.

The professional’s focus is listening to, understanding and equipping you with the right knowledge and skills, to help you make your life more how you want it to be. You can expect the professional to help you establish goals for change. You can also expect them to provide a safe environment to open up, an objective viewpoint to allow you to step aside from your problems and get a new perspective on your situation; and enough challenge to get you to question the choices you are making.

The exact treatment depends on the situation, the professional and the client, and the fit between them. There is no one-size-fits-all ‘magic formula’, and if the fit is not a good one, don’t be afraid to seek a different professional.

Sure, it isn’t easy to start again, but man, it can be so worth it.

But be real, about the journey towards your desired outcome. It won’t necessarily be easy, it won’t necessarily be quick, and it won’t even necessarily be lineal. Remember, a good long-term outcome will not just help you ameliorate the ‘symptoms’ of your issues, but where the issues seem enduring, counselling can help you uncover and address the underlying causes, and help confront the system of thoughts, beliefs and behaviours that keep driving it all.

‘‘On arrival you’ll notice there is no couch. Instead, just a couple of chairs, and a coffee table. And then dialogue happens. Yup, a two-way dialogue. And what forms is a partnership between you and the professional.’’ Psychologist Susan Wall