Question 1

When should I seek help?

Accepted Answer

You might consider therapy when emotional distress begins to affect your daily life, relationships, or overall well-being. Common reasons include anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, relationship issues, or feeling stuck and overwhelmed. Seeking support is a courageous and empowering step.

Question 2

What is counselling psychology?

Accepted Answer

Counselling psychology is a branch of applied psychology that helps individuals navigate emotional, psychological, and relational challenges. It combines scientific research with therapeutic practice to promote mental health, personal growth, and resilience.

Question 3

What do counselling psychologists do?

Accepted Answer

Counselling psychologists work collaboratively with clients to explore concerns, understand patterns of thinking and behavior, and develop strategies for healing and growth. They use evidence-based approaches to support individuals through life transitions, emotional distress, trauma, and interpersonal difficulties.

Question 4

What will the psychotherapist say to me during the consultation session?

Accepted Answer

During your first session, the therapist will assess your current emotional state and how it affects your daily life. They may ask about your personal history, relationships, and life experiences to better understand your unique context. This helps tailor the therapeutic approach to your needs.

Question 5

What is EMDR Therapy?

Accepted Answer

EMDR Therapy (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is a structured approach that helps the brain process overwhelming experiences. When an event exceeds our capacity to cope, the memory may be stored in a “state-specific” form—preserving original images, sensations, emotions, and beliefs, almost like a frozen capsule in time. When triggered, these stored reactions can resurface with intensity, even years later.

EMDR brings these memories into awareness while using bilateral stimulation—gentle back-and-forth eye movements, taps, or tones—to activate the brain’s natural processing system. This helps the memory become more integrated and less distressing. The goal is not to erase the memory, but to change how it is held in the nervous system. After reprocessing, many people find they can recall the event without the same emotional charge, allowing for greater resilience and clarity moving forward.

Vincent K. Wong
MA (CounPsych), MBA, C.C.C., GMBPsS

FAQs

Frequently asked questions

When should I seek help?

What is counselling psychology?

What do counselling psychologists do?

What will the psychotherapist say to me during the consultation session?

What is EMDR Therapy?