Frequently Asked Questions
Why do Individuals enter Therapy at Narratives of Loss?
Narratives of Loss is a specialist psychological service focused on Loss, Grief, Trauma & Resilience. Naturally, our service users seek help to cope with loss and its detrimental impact, while also struggling to navigate and adapt to life after loss.
What types of Losses do Individuals present with?
Loss has often been associated with the death of a loved one, but there are other types of losses that can also have devastating effects. Some major life losses are: disappearance, divorce, end of a significant relationship, loss of home, loss of financial stability, loss of pregnancy, infertility & miscarriage, loss of health, retirement, loss of employment, empty nest syndrome, loss of faith, loss of identity, rejection and abandonment.
What are the benefits of Therapy?
At the very least, therapy provides a safe space to help process feelings and emotions, for example, anxiety and depression. Further, therapy aids in learning to manage and develop coping skills, reduce feelings of guilt and shame, and develop a new identity beyond the loss. Therapy can also lead to the improvement of relationships, adaptation to major life transitions, and enhance of well-being. Overall, therapy provides support to navigate life’s challenges, while seeking to facilitate improvements for both personal and professional growth.
What is the process of Therapy like at Narratives of Loss?
The initial screening and assessment take 90 minutes. At the screening, you will receive a Therapy Pack containing the following:
- Welcome letter
- Client Information Form
- Therapy Rules of Engagement
- Counselling Psychology services offered
- Confidentiality and Limits to Confidentiality Form
- Client Consent Form
- Payment Contract
- Crisis & Emergency Contacts
Thereafter, therapy is personalized to meet your unique needs. Therapy sessions typically last 60 minutes and are a collaborative effort that can lead to significant improvements in your overall quality of life and mental well-being. You will be encouraged to focus on a goal, for example, improving your capacity to cope with stress, enhancing your communication skills, increasing your emotional resilience, etc. Therapy can be short or long-term.
What about Confidentiality?
Confidentiality is an integral component of therapy. See above.
Do you prescribe Medication?
Medication and therapy can be complimentary but, in reality, serve different purposes. Medication is prescribed to reduce the symptoms of mental health issues, such as anxiety and depression, while therapy addresses the root causes of the presenting issues and, subsequently provides support through the teaching of coping skills and strategies. There is some benefit to combining medication and therapy. Only a qualified physician, such as a psychiatrist is authorized to prescribe medication.
Do you accept Pro Bono Work?
Please enquire in-house. I undertake to offer 10% of my work pro bono.
How can I get started with Therapy at Narratives of Loss?
Starting therapy is simple and entails completing the “Contact Us” form with all the necessary information, after which we shall contact you to schedule an appointment. The first appointment is 90 minutes, and includes a 30-minute complimentary screening, during which we will discuss your needs and how best to support you by providing all the information needed to make an informed decision about starting therapy. You can schedule this initial screening, which includes the first therapy session using the button below.