Question 1

What should I expect from my first session?

Accepted Answer

During your first session, which will last for 1 hour, you will explore with the therapist what your particular needs are and discuss together how the appointments may be able to help you. There will be an opportunity for you to ask any questions you may have and to explore any concerns or worries. You will not be under any obligation to continue with further sessions, this is an opportunity for you to consider whether you feel comfortable and able to work with the therapist and whether the approach offered will suit you and your specific requirements. A mutually beneficial day and time for counseling sessions to take place will be agreed upon should you wish to proceed with further sessions.
The therapist will also discuss with you a working agreement which will cover such issues as confidentiality, fees and cancellations.

Question 2

How often should I attend?

Accepted Answer

At the start of the therapeutic process, we suggest sessions to be held on a weekly basis. This will facilitate the establishment of the therapeutic relationship and to set the pace for the rest of the therapy. When this is not possible, or a different schedule is needed, this will be discussed and adjusted between you and your therapist.

Question 3

How long do sessions last for?

Accepted Answer

The duration of each session is 1 hour.

Question 4

How many sessions will I need?

Accepted Answer

Every process is unique, and each intervention is tailored to each individual, and therefore we cannot pre-establish a duration. It will depend on the aims of the therapy, the complexity of the case, the chronicity of the symptoms/situation you want to address, and the commitment to therapy. For same cases it might be 12 sessions, for others longer or shorter. However, the therapist will make sure to discuss with you the gains you are experiencing throughout the process, and adjust the sessions accordingly.

Question 5

Can sessions take place online?

Accepted Answer

Yes, sessions can be taken online. To access an online session, you need a computer, tablet, or smartphone and a good internet connection. To ensure better audio quality and greater privacy, we recommend the use of headphones. It is important that the call is made from a quiet, comfortable, and distractor-free place, where you can have privacy and ensure confidentiality.

Question 6

Are online sessions effective?

Accepted Answer

The Order of Portuguese Psychologists recognizes the efficacy of online psychological interventions, which have been evidenced by several studies demonstrating that online psychological therapy is as effective as face-to-face therapy in the treatment of various conditions (Emmelkamp, 2011; Hilty et al., 2013; Ruwaard et al., 2011). In order not to compromise effectiveness, it is important to ensure your privacy during the sessions. Conducting sessions online does not compromise the therapeutic relationship and has several advantages compared to face-to-face therapy, including greater accessibility and convenience, no need for travel, and greater schedule flexibility. The effectiveness of online sessions and their advantages has been confirmed by several patients’ feedback who indicate their preference for this format.

Question 7

Can related people attend the same therapist?

Accepted Answer

In individual therapy, family and close friends should not attend the same therapist. This will allow the therapist to know each individual separately, in their own narrative, preventing any bias in the information, and to maintain confidentiality.

Question 8

What is the difference between a Psychologist and a Psychiatrist?

Accepted Answer

Psychologists and psychiatrists often work together, as their approaches can complement each other.
The psychiatrist is a doctor, and will be able to attend to your needs in a medical sense, for example by reducing symptoms through the use of medication. The psychologist will look at the individual as a whole, and, together with you, develop a therapeutic intervention that provides you with tools for a better understanding and coping with what you are experiencing, or have experienced in the past.

Question 9

I read you use Mindfulness as an approach - do I have to use it in sessions?

Accepted Answer

You do not have to use this particular approach. Working with Mindfulness might prove beneficial in many situations, but it is not mandatory.
All approaches and tools will be discussed with you and decided together.

Frequently Asked Questions