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How Does Therapy Work?

Getting informed about the process of therapy can be very valuable. There are many schools of therapy and each of them has a slightly different approach. Scientific research has shown that most types of therapy can be helpful in overcoming distress and finding more fulfilment in life - to one condition: the therapist as a person, as well as the approach he or she practices have to suit you. This is why I dearly invite you to consult the information I have tried to compile on person-centered and essential psychotherapy which I have been trained in. I also would like to invite you to consult the About Me section, as you might get a first glimpse of what motivates me in my work.

Let me also try to answer a few of the questions I get asked most frequently by new clients. These answers are - of course - particular to my own understanding and style of conducting therapy. I hope they will help you in making an informed choice.

FAQs

The days in which therapy was stigmatized as only concerning those deemed "crazy" or suffering from so-called "mental illness" are long gone. There are various reasons that might lead you to seeking help from a mental health professional.

Whether it be to explore specific questions, overcoming challenges, addressing deeper distress (depression, anxiety, isolation, grief, trauma, etc.), or continuing a journey of personal growth and development, any therapist will welcome you into a judgment-free and supportive space to help you figure out how to better deal with challenges and find more fulfilment. Here are some areas that might inspire you to consider a consultation with me:

• Personal development and growth

• Stress management and burnout prevention

• Cultivation of fulfilling and enriching relationships

• Healing processes following traumatic experiences

• Reduction of anxiety and development of inner calm

• Strengthening self-assertion and self-esteem

• Developing skills for a balanced emotional life

• Supportive guidance to embrace neurodiversity

• Support and guidance in grieving processes

• Guidance in meditation and integrated spirituality

At the beginning of our therapy process, I offer five probatory sessions. These initial sessions are designed to understand your needs and goals, and to determine whether psychotherapy in general, and the person-centered approach specifically, are right for you. We will typically hold these sessions weekly to ensure we can make an informed decision without unnecessary delays. During this time, we will explore your expectations and see if my personal style and the person-centered therapy approach suit your preferences and needs. These sessions help us both feel confident in moving forward with a therapeutic relationship that supports your growth and well-being.

After the probatory sessions, we will start the actual therapy. Before beginning this phase, we will agree on the frequency of sessions, specific session dates, and evaluation times. This structured approach provides a clear framework for your therapy, ensuring that your progress is both organized and effective. At this stage, I ask you to engage sincerely in the therapeutic process we have co-defined, honoring your session dates and understanding that cancellations should be the exception. Your active participation and openness are crucial for the success of the therapy. 

The length of psychotherapy can vary greatly depending on individual needs and goals. While some clients may benefit from short-term therapy focusing on specific issues and lasting a few weeks to a few months, others may require longer-term treatment to address deeper-rooted concerns and achieve lasting change. 

You are invited to take an active role in your therapeutic journey, including deciding when to conclude treatment based on your own progress and satisfaction with the therapeutic process.

The consultation frequency depends on each person's unique needs. Whether we meet weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly, we collaboratively decide upon an optimal schedule for your therapeutic journey. I prioritize flexibility, adjusting our sessions as needed to ensure our work together remains effective, supportive, and based on your needs.

While some individuals prefer consistent appointment times, others need flexibility due to changing work schedules. At my practice, I accommodate both preferences as long as there are available slots.

Do I get reimbursement from health insurance?

Most Belgian health insurances reimburse a portion of the consultation fees with clinical psychologists. If you have additional professional health insurance provided by your employer, you may often expect higher reimbursement rates. Please inquire with your individual health insurance provider regarding the number of sessions covered and the exact amount of reimbursement guaranteed by your plan.

Once your payment has been received (either in cash, via QR code, or via bank transfer), you will receive an official receipt containing all necessary information for your healthcare provider.