Question 1

What’s the difference between psychotherapy and counselling?

Accepted Answer

While the terms are often used interchangeably, psychotherapy generally involves deeper exploration of long-standing emotional issues, often rooted in early life or trauma. Counselling tends to focus on present-day challenges and solutions. Both aim to support your growth and well-being—our work may draw from both depending on your needs.

Question 2

How do I know if therapy is right for me?

Accepted Answer

If you're feeling stuck, overwhelmed, grieving, anxious, or simply curious about yourself and your patterns, therapy can help. You don’t need to have a diagnosed condition or a major crisis—therapy is for anyone seeking clarity, healing, or growth. It’s a space where you can be fully heard without judgment, and where we work together to understand what’s going on beneath the surface. If you’re unsure, I offer space to talk through what you’re needing and whether therapy with me is the right fit.

Question 3

What can I expect from our first session?

Accepted Answer

The first session is about getting to know each other. You’ll have space to share what’s brought you here, and I’ll ask some gentle questions to understand your story, needs, and hopes. We draft up some goals and barriers to achieving these goals. I also learn more about you in the sociocultural, familial, and professional context.

You won’t be pushed to talk about anything you’re not ready for. We’ll also go over how I work, confidentiality, and what our sessions can look like moving forward. It’s okay to bring questions or uncertainties—your comfort and safety are central to this process.

Question 4

What’s the difference between a psychotherapist, psychologist, psychiatrist, and counsellor?

Accepted Answer

These roles all support mental health, but they differ in training, scope, and methods:

Psychotherapist: A psychotherapist is trained to work deeply with emotional and psychological issues, including trauma, grief, identity, and relationships. They may use a range of talk and body-based therapies and often work long-term to support lasting change.
Psychologist: A psychologist has a university degree in psychology and is trained in assessing, diagnosing, and treating mental health conditions, often using structured therapies like CBT. Some offer therapy, while others focus on assessment or research.
Psychiatrist: Psychiatrists are medical doctors who specialize in mental health. They diagnose and prescribe medications for psychiatric conditions. While they understand psychological factors, they typically don’t provide ongoing talk therapy.
Counsellor: Counsellors support people through challenges like stress, grief, or life transitions. Their training can vary, and while they may not diagnose conditions, they offer valuable emotional and practical support.

I am both a qualified counsellor and psychotherapist, which means I can support you with practical strategies while also working at depth to explore the root causes of distress—especially where trauma, identity, culture, or grief are involved.

What are some

Frequently Asked Questions?

Frequently asked questions

What’s the difference between psychotherapy and counselling?

How do I know if therapy is right for me?

What can I expect from our first session?

What’s the difference between a psychotherapist, psychologist, psychiatrist, and counsellor?