Frequently Asked Questions
I’ve never talked to a therapist before. I feel like this may be a sign of weakness.
Asking for help is actually a sign of strength. It takes courage to reach out and get help. All of us experience adverse life events, or may experience a mental health condition. It is part of normal self-care to reach out to meet with a therapist and/or psychiatrist. Even us therapists see mental health providers.
I think I can just handle this alone.
We wouldn't ask surgeons to perform their own surgeries, and it's the same with therapy. With mental health, we may not be able to see parts of ourselves, and may need an outside perspective.
Can't I just talk to my friends or family instead?
While it's great to get support from loved ones, our family and friends may be biased. Also they are not well versed at how to help. Therapists rely on research-based evidence on what helps and what doesn't. For instance, advice giving is not always helpful. Catharsis (e.g. screaming into a pillow) we know is not therapeutic, based on research. Therapists help you figure out what you want for yourself, without giving you advice.
How does psychiatric medication work?
Psychiatric medications work by balancing chemicals in the brain called neurotransmitters that affect mood and emotions. These medications can help improve mood, sleep, appetite and concentration.
How can therapy help?
They say a picture is worth a thousand words...
I’ve never talked to a therapist before. I feel like this may be a sign of weakness.
Asking for help is actually a sign of strength. It takes courage to reach out and get help. All of us experience adverse life events, or may experience a mental health condition. It is part of normal self-care to reach out to meet with a therapist and/or psychiatrist. Even us therapists see mental health providers.
I think I can just handle this alone.
We wouldn't ask surgeons to perform their own surgeries, and it's the same with therapy. With mental health, we may not be able to see parts of ourselves, and may need an outside perspective.
Can't I just talk to my friends or family instead?
While it's great to get support from loved ones, our family and friends may be biased. Also they are not well versed at how to help. Therapists rely on research-based evidence on what helps and what doesn't. For instance, advice giving is not always helpful. Catharsis (e.g. screaming into a pillow) we know is not therapeutic, based on research. Therapists help you figure out what you want for yourself, without giving you advice.
How does psychiatric medication work?
Psychiatric medications work by balancing chemicals in the brain called neurotransmitters that affect mood and emotions. These medications can help improve mood, sleep, appetite and concentration.
How can therapy help?
They say a picture is worth a thousand words...
DISCLAIMER: Please be advised that the information on this page is for educational purposes only, not a substitute for mental health treatment nor constitutes medical or mental health advice.