FAQ - About Click Psychology Ltd

What can I Expect?

When we first meet, we will discuss the current problem(s) you are experiencing, and any other relevant information about your past and present life. Together, we will agree which difficulties to work on, which evidence-based therapy approach can best help you, and also let you know what's involved and approximately how many sessions will be needed. It can also be helpful for you to think about your goals and what you want to get out of the sessions before the first visit. 

Research shows that therapy works best when people are motivated, attend regularly and give some thought to what they want to discuss before each session. Practicing new skills and strategies at home/work/when socialising also enables you to get the most out of our time together.

As a registered clinical psychologist, I am required to work within my scope of practice. If I think there is another provider more qualified in your specific area of need, I will refer you onto them (after discussing this with you first). Click Psychology Ltd is well connected within the larger community and so I can assist you to find the best support option for you.

How long does therapy last?

Each session is 50 minutes long with the remaining 10 minutes used to write the required clinical notes. Each person’s therapy requirements are unique, depending on their issues and goals, and so the number of sessions needed for each person will differ. My core training is to provide short-term, goal-oriented therapy, which can range from 1 session to 6-12 sessions.

Therapy is not usually a 'quick fix' solution to issues, however, it is often possible to make some changes/decisions within a short timeframe. Longer-term therapy may also be appropriate, but we would always discuss and agree this together in our initial session. Progress is also reviewed regularly to ensure we are working together effectively to meet your goals.

Do I need a referral?

No. I accept self-referrals, as well as referrals from G.P.s, other health professionals and ACC.

Who is Click Psychology Ltd suited to?

Adults over the age of 18 years old who want to understand their difficulties and take action to create positive change in their life. It is important to note that Click Psychology Ltd is not suitable for individuals currently in crisis or with a severe history of mental illness.

What about confidentiality?

Click Psychology Ltdworks with the fundamental principle of confidentiality, which is that you as a client are entitled to confidentiality and privacy. The Health Information Privacy Code  and NZCCP Code of Ethics cover your rights. Please note that the key exception to confidentiality is that if you are risk of immediate and serious harm to yourself or others, then there is a duty to protect you or others in the first instance. Please also note that your information will not be released to anyone unless you have given permission, or in the rare circumstance where it may be required by law.

FAQ - Treatment Approaches

I am formally trained in four evidence-based therapies (see below) which means I can work flexibly to meet your unique needs and maximise the benefits of the sessions.

What is cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT)?

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is a time-limited, empirically supported treatment for a wide range of problems including depression, anxiety, worry, relationship conflicts, eating disorders and substance abuse. It is a collaborative, present day-focused approach to problematic behaviours, thoughts and emotions. CBT therapists take an active approach to teach clients skills that can be used to improve how they are feeling as well as their current day-to-day functioning.

What is acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT)?

ACT gets it name from one of its core messages: to recognise and accept what is beyond our personal control whilst still committing to actions that will improve the quality of life. The aim of ACT is to help people create a rich, full and meaningful life while dealing effectively with the pain and stress that life can inevitably bring. ACT does this by teaching psychological skills to deal with painful thoughts and feelings so they have much less impact and influence. This involves helping to clarify values (what is truly important and meaningful for individuals) and then using that knowledge to guide, inspire and motivate change for the better.

What is dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT)?

DBT is a type of cognitive behavioural therapy. Its main goal is to teach people ways to cope with emotional distress and improve relationships with others. Learning new skills to manage difficult thoughts, feelings and behaviours is a crucial part of DBT, which specifically focuses on teaching people the skills of mindful observing, interpersonal effectiveness, how to manage emotional distress and how to regulate emotions in day-to-day life.

What is eye movement desensitisation and reprocessing therapy (EMDR)?

EMDR is a therapy designed to treat the symptoms and emotional distress resulting from traumatic or disturbing life experiences.  It uses rapid eye movements (bilateral stimulation) to facilitate previously unprocessed and distressing memories. The therapy involves building insight and understanding about the impacts of trauma, teaching stabilising strategies, integrating the unprocessed memories of experiences that contribute to current difficulties and enhancing positive emotions, feelings, and behaviours.

FAQ - General

What is a Clinical Psychologist?

Clinical psychologists are university trained to a post-graduate level in the assessment, diagnosis and treatment of a wide range of mental health and behavioural issues. They provide specialist psychological services to individuals for mental health conditions that range from mild, to severe and complex. They are trained in the delivery of a range of techniques and therapies with demonstrated effectiveness in treating mental health difficulties. Clinical psychologists have specific expertise in applying psychological theory and scientific research to individually tailor interventions, and support people to make positive changes in their lives by understanding and solving their unique and issues.

What is the difference between a clinical psychologist and a psychiatrist?

Like clinical psychologists, psychiatrists are also trained in the assessment, diagnosis and treatment of mental disorders, in addition to being qualified medical doctors. Generally, psychiatrists will prescribe drugs to treat peoples difficulties.