Popular Questions
01How do I know it is time to visit a psychologist?
Starting a therapeutic or counseling process is a deeply personal choice. As human beings, it is natural to face challenges in life, and there are times when we struggle to meet our own expectations. These difficulties can manifest in various ways: anxiety, emotional blockages, recurring behavioral patterns, relationship struggles, a persistent sense of distress, or even psychosomatic symptoms. Therefore, you do not need to have a "severe problem" to seek help. The need for self-understanding and change, along with the desire to soften the obstacles preventing you from living a fulfilling life, are valid and sufficient reasons to begin a therapeutic or counseling relationship.
02How will a psychologist help me, and how should I choose one?
A psychologist will help you through their scientific training, academic knowledge, and specialized expertise in a specific psychotherapeutic approach. This background provides them with the skill to safely and appropriately co-create a therapeutic relationship with you.
Choosing the right professional is a crucial first step that actually marks the beginning of the analytic process, even before the first session. A significant factor in this choice is whether your request aligns with the professional's approach (the cognitive aspect), but equally important is how you feel during your interaction with them (the emotional aspect).
03Is it normal to feel fear or anxiety before starting?
Absolutely. The unknown often causes discomfort or anxiety and can become a canvas for various projections and scenarios. The fear of exposure, doubting the professional, the fear of losing control, or feelings of shame and awkwardness are common emotions that can arise alongside the desire to start therapy. The first session is exploratory and clarifying; its primary goal is to help you feel safe and determine if a potential collaboration is the right fit for you.
04Is it necessary to talk about my past?
Not necessarily. Our past continuously manifests in the "here and now," and the traces of our personal history are deeply embedded in our character, our behavior, and our relationships with others. Therefore, therapy can be highly effective even when focusing on the present, as our personal history is inherently integrated into our character and our body, which carries memories from the very beginning of our existence. The past is only explored when and if it is helpful for understanding the present, and always with the client's explicit consent.
05What is the duration of a session, and how much does it cost?
Each session lasts for 50 minutes. The cost varies depending on the type of service provided. You can receive detailed information regarding the terms and fees of the specific analytic/counseling service by contacting me directly.
06When does a psychotherapeutic/counseling process end?
The completion of the therapeutic relationship is a conscious process that is ideally decided jointly by both parties (therapist and client) when the client's initial request has been fulfilled. Consequently, there is no specific, universal timeframe that applies to everyone. However, if the desire to terminate therapy comes from the client, it is crucial to discuss this with the therapist. This ensures that the therapy is at a stage where termination is feasible without the risk of complications. Discussing this with the professional always leads to choosing the best possible solution for the client.
07What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?
A psychiatrist is a medical doctor and can prescribe medication if it is deemed necessary or beneficial. A psychologist/psychotherapist focuses on therapeutic intervention through talk therapy and psychological techniques. In some cases, a collaboration between the two is highly beneficial. While a psychologist cannot prescribe medication, they can refer a client to a psychiatrist for a medication evaluation if they believe it is essential for the successful continuation of the therapy.
08Does Somatic Psychotherapy require physical touch?
Not necessarily. While the somatic approach can include physical contact and touch, it is absolutely not a prerequisite. Working with the body involves somatic activations (Actings) performed by the client in the presence of the therapist, as well as work with breathing, posture, somatic awareness, and the regulation of the nervous system. Every somatic activation is introduced at an appropriate time and context, with the utmost respect for the client's personal boundaries.
09At what age can someone start Somatic Psychotherapy?
Body Psychotherapy can begin from the age of 6 and up, with the methodology carefully adapted to the specific developmental phase of the child or adolescent.
10How will I know if my child needs support from a psychologist?
This is a crucial question for any parent. Timely and appropriate intervention can have a profound and beneficial impact on a child's or adolescent's psychological development. You should consider seeking support if you notice sudden or persistent changes in their mood, behavior, sleep patterns, school performance, or relationships. Additionally, if they struggle to express emotions, or if you observe them experiencing significant anxiety, fears, or social withdrawal, these are strong indications that your child could benefit from a therapeutic/counseling process. A parent's courage to acknowledge their own shortcomings and their readiness to engage in personal change are vital factors in the success of the child's therapy during these sensitive and precious developmental stages.