Question 1

How do I know if therapy is right for me?

Accepted Answer

How do I know if therapy is right for me?

You do not need to have a diagnosis or be in crisis to benefit from psychotherapy. If you are struggling with something in your life, relationships, emotions or sense of self, an initial consultation can help us think together about whether therapy may be useful for you.

What happens in the first session?

How often would we meet?

How long does therapy take?

Do you offer online consultations?

Can I claim from my medical aid?

Do I need a referral from a doctor?

What if I need help urgently, or after hours?

Still unsure? Send a WhatsApp message to 060 709 2193.

Question 2

What happens in the first session?

Accepted Answer

The first session is an opportunity for us to understand what has brought you to therapy, what you are hoping for, and which experiences and circumstances may be relevant. It is also an opportunity for you to decide whether you feel comfortable working with me.

Question 3

How often would we meet?

Accepted Answer

For psychoanalytically oriented psychotherapy, I generally recommend at least one session per week. Regularity provides continuity and allows enough space to develop the therapeutic relationship and to notice and work with patterns as they emerge over time. More frequent sessions may be recommended depending on the nature and complexity of the difficulties being addressed.

Question 4

How long does therapy take?

Accepted Answer

There is no predetermined number of sessions. The duration of therapy depends on what brings you to treatment, your needs and goals, and the kind of work we decide to undertake together.

Question 5

Do you offer online consultations?

Accepted Answer

Yes, online consultations are available. Face-to-face psychotherapy is generally considered the preferred format because of the importance of the therapeutic relationship and the richness of in-person interaction. Following an initial assessment, if I feel that face-to-face therapy would be clinically preferable, I will discuss this with you. This may involve continuing face-to-face therapy with me or, where appropriate, helping you identify another therapist who is more accessible to you geographically.

Question 6

Can I claim from my medical aid?

Accepted Answer

Yes. I am registered with the relevant professional and healthcare funding bodies. Payment is made directly to me by the patient following each consultation, after which you may submit the invoice to your medical aid for reimbursement. Reimbursement is subject to your individual medical aid plan and available benefits, and I recommend confirming your cover with your medical aid provider before commencing treatment.

Question 7

Do I need a referral from a doctor?

Accepted Answer

No. You are welcome to contact me directly to enquire about psychotherapy. In some circumstances, however, collaboration with your GP, psychiatrist or another healthcare professional may be clinically appropriate and will be discussed with you if necessary.

Question 8

What if I need help urgently, or after hours?

Accepted Answer

This is not a crisis service. In an emergency call 10177 or 112, or the SADAG Suicide Crisis Helpline on 0800 567 567, which operates 24 hours.

Questions people ask first