If this is the first time you’re considering therapy, you might have questions regarding what it’s like and what benefits it will procure. There are of course no rules, as each person and each situation is unique. That said some general principles do apply. This page contains some of the most frequently asked questions I get at the beginning of therapy.

Why should I see a therapist?

People go to therapy to resolve specific problems when faced with a difficult situation, but many also opt for therapy as a way to get to know themselves better. Psychotherapy can help with most life problems such as relationships or emotional problems, feelings of loneliness or exclusion, confusion as regards various life choices, family conflict, personal or professional transition/ crisis, physical or psychological trauma, stress, anxiety, depression, addiction, illness etc.

How long does a therapy session last?

A session lasts one hour.

How long does therapy take?

This depends completely on the goals of the therapy and the expectations of the client. For example, are you seeking therapy in order to help you surpass a difficult period or do you just want to get to know yourself better overall?

I would like to try several therapists in order to ensure I find out whom I feel most ease with.

Why not? Trust is an essential component of therapy.

Will I need to lie on a sofa during therapy?

Gestalt therapy considers a person first and foremost as someone who is in relation with their environment. For this reason, we sit in armchairs facing each other and speak face-to-face.

Will I need to recount my whole life story down to my childhood?

Gestalt therapy is primarily interested in the way a person interacts with the people that surround him or her. To do so, it considers the current moment as the reference point. We are of course full of memories of past experiences and anticipations relating to the future. When these surface, they can and should be addressed, but this is done in connection to the present situation.

I have something difficult to say, what will the therapist think of me?

Contrary to our everyday relations with others, anything said in the framework of a therapy session takes place in a completely non-judgmental environment. The therapist is here to listen with a sense of open-minded curiosity, which is specific to the psychotherapeutic process. It sets aside any question of good or bad. The patient and therapist simply work together to find the reasons for and foundations of a specific behavioral pattern or state.

When will I get better?

This is a legitimate question that is often asked. It is difficult to provide this answer of the outset of the therapy. We can however say that opening the door to therapy is not an insignificant gesture. It is based on the recognition that a difficulty exists and on a desire to seek help and get better. It is in fact a major undertaking. To start moving and strive to get better is already the first step to helping oneself. And helping oneself already means getting better. My response to this question is therefore have faith in yourself and allow yourself some time.

What about confidentiality?

Everything that is said within the therapy session is subject to full confidentiality and discretion.

Do not hesitate to contact me if you have any other questions.