Common Questions
How can therapy help me?
Therapy is a path to help you overcome many obstacles, whether it’s everyday difficulties or a specific trauma from the past or present. The level of effectiveness depends on various factors, which will be assessed during our initial consultation.
In general, therapy will help you process negative emotions, anxiety, fear, and past hurts. Additionally, it provides you with healthy coping tools, so you can stop relying on mechanisms that may be harmful to yourself or others. Our goal is to equip you with the knowledge and skills necessary to take control of your mental well-being.
How will I know I have made progress in therapy?
When you begin, you and your therapist will set specific goals together. As your therapy progresses, you will start to notice positive changes and see your initial goals gradually become a reality. This allows you to actively track and clearly feel your own progress.
Should I worry about seeking help?
No, absolutely not.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), one in four people worldwide will experience a mental health or neurological disorder at some point in their lives. This shows that mental health issues are very common and nothing to be ashamed of. Your mental health is just as important as your physical health. Seeking help is a brave and completely normal action, just like seeing a doctor for a physical illness.
What should I do if I do not like my therapist?
Most of the therapists at Psychologist Vietnam offer a free consultation session, which gives you the chance to meet your therapist and see if you feel comfortable with him/her. You are always free to discuss your preference for another therapist or to end the therapy after any session when you want.
Where will the therapy take place?
The location will be based on the agreement between you and your personal therapist. Sessions can take place at our office/clinic, at your home, or in a public space like a cafe if you feel more comfortable there. Psychologist Vietnam always makes it a priority for you to choose the most convenient location.
How long will it take for treatment to be effective
The duration of therapy is flexible and can range from just a few sessions to several months, depending on the nature and severity of the issues you are facing.
For Specific Issues: If you have a clear problem you want to address, just a few consultations may be enough.
For Complex Issues: For chronic or co-occurring disorders, a longer treatment plan may be needed. Research suggests that therapy is most effective when it is integrated into a client’s lifestyle over the course of 12 to 16 sessions, typically held once a week for 50-60 minutes each.
Is therapy always effective?
Unfortunately, no, it doesn’t always work. However, finding out what doesn’t work for you is just as valuable as finding what does. There are many different types of therapy. You and your therapist will work together to find the best approach for you. Even if one method isn’t effective, we’ll help you explore other options to ensure you get the best possible support.
Should I tell everything to my therapist?
It is completely up to you, depending on your willingness to partly or fully disclose to your therapist. Although, it is beneficial to be as open as you feel comfortable to share during the therapy. This facilitates your therapist to boost your progress in the finest way. We do not expect you to be an open book at the very first meet, as certain topics seem difficult and painful to talk about, we deeply understand that. Nonetheless, it is crucial to be properly aware that everything you speak out will be kept confidential between you and your therapist during and after each and every therapy session.
What should I bring to the meetings with my therapist?
The duration of therapy for severe depression
The duration of therapy for severe depression varies based on individual circumstances, including symptom severity, treatment response, and the presence of co-occurring conditions. Typically, individuals begin to notice improvements within 4 to 8 weeks of consistent therapy and/or medication. Structured therapies like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) often involve 12 to 20 sessions, spanning 3 to 6 months. For recurrent, severe or chronic depression, treatment may extend to 1 year or longer, with some cases requiring ongoing therapy to maintain stability and prevent relapse. Combining therapy with medication often yields the most effective results. It’s essential to consult with a mental health professional to develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to your specific needs.
