When does someone need to visit a psychologist?
Throughout life, individuals go through various situations which they might experience difficulties dealing with effectively. In such cases, seeking the support of a psychologist can be the key to a more functional daily life. Through a therapeutic relationship offered by a professionally trained, objective helper, the individual is able to discover different means of help, which they can use to lead both a more functional life, and a better quality of life.
How do I choose a psychologist?
The answer to this question is very important. Each individual’s choice is based on a variety of factors which include objective as well as subjective factors. The objective factors that need to be considered relate to the Cypriot legislation regarding the practice of applied psychology. If someone is looking for a psychologist in Cyprus, it is important for them to know that there are five specialties of applied psychology. These include; clinical psychology, counseling psychology, school/educational psychology, judicial psychology and organizational/industrial psychology or work psychology. A full list of chartered psychologists can be found through the Cyprus Council of Registered Professional Psychologists. The registered individuals hold both a degree in psychology as well as a postgraduate qualification in their specific field of specialty which both lasted a minimum of two years, and included 1000 hours of practical experience. (http://www.cylaw.org/nomoi/arith/2009_1_059.pdf). In regard to the subjective factors, the individual will base their decision on the therapeutic relationship that will develop in the psychotherapy room, mutual trust, and the connection that the person will feel with their psychologist.
How is confidentiality ensured throughout the psychotherapeutic relationship?
According to the code of ethics of the profession, a psychologist is obliged to preserve all of the information they receive during a meeting. Confidentiality covers everything the psychologist sees, hears or perceives about the individual receiving the services. A psychologist will break confidentiality when:
(a) the life or physical integrity of his client or other individuals is at risk
(b) there is child abuse, neglect, sexual abuse, pedophilia or domestic violence
(c) there is a warrant for criminal acts
How long does a session last and how often does it take place?
An individual psychotherapy session lasts 50 minutes, and most often, is once a week. There is no specific time limit for individual psychotherapy, as it differs for each individual, since it is a very personal process based on their unique requirements. Couple and family counseling sessions are longer, 90 minutes, and take place once a week.