Cognitive-behavioural psychotherapy is a recognised form of therapy. It is firmly based on solid research and has been shown to be effective in the sorts of problems mentioned here. The aim of therapy is to make the therapist redundant; to help the clients become their own therapist.
Each client is given an assessment appointment which will decide whether this
kind of therapy is suitable.
Therapy is limited in duration - the average duration of therapy is about 8
sessions although this varies from one person to another. Clients are generally
seen for about an hour, weekly, fortnightly or monthly as appropriate.
You will be fully involved in therapy and given feedback about the results
of psychological questionnaires etc. You may also be asked to keep records of
your progress and to carry out 'homework' assignments. This is because it is
important to practice techniques in real life, and because it is in this way that
your progress can be monitored rapidly. Relaxation training is often an integral
part of therapy and individualized tapes are given for practice at home when
required.
Fees are generally tax-deductible if you are referred by a medical doctor, see Revenue - Irish Tax and Customs. Some health iinsurance companies will cover part of the costs.
There is no charge for cancellations with 24 hours or more notice but cancellations at less than this are charged at the full fee.