Starting therapy is a process, and I understand that it can be daunting. To help you get going, I’ve put together a list of answers to the most common questions I’m asked.
FAQS
Who to contact if you are in crisis
The Mind Project is not a crisis service and does not offer any after hours support.
If you have urgent concerns about the mental health and wellbeing of a child or young person, call 111 or you can contact any of the following for support:
- Your GP or local Emergency Hospital
- Child and Family Mental Health Services (CAFS) 0800 112 334 or 878 8109
- 24/7 non-urgent advice you can free call or text 1737 to talk with a trained counsellor
Who is The Mind Project?
The Mind Project, led by Educational and Child Psychologist Tessa Prior, focuses on providing therapy for young and developing minds.
I support young people, typically aged between 7-25, offering in-person sessions at home for those in Hawke’s Bay and online sessions for clients across New Zealand.
My aim is to be an approachable person for young people to talk to, and my core focus in initial sessions is to reduce the stigma around seeking help, and ensuring the young person is comfortable and is open to ongoing support.
What can I expect from Tessa?
I support young people of all ages, with support usually for those between 7-25 years. Generally, the first session is about getting to know each other, and for you to decide if I’m the best fit for your child. Depending on the age and the need, I will often meet with the parent and young person together for the first part of the session, then if they are comfortable, I will ask the parent to leave around half way through. I am flexible in my initial sessions, as it’s not a one size fits all approach, and will be guided by you and your whānau.
Do I need to do anything before my first session?
There’s zero pressure to prepare anything for your first session but if you find it helpful, you can jot down some points about specific things you’d like to work on or discuss with me.
For online sessions, I recommend getting ready 5-10 minutes before it commences, making sure your computer or phone microphone and video is working, and that you are comfortable and ready to sit through your session uninterrupted.
Are the sessions confidential?
Everything you discuss with me is absolutely confidential, and will not be shared unless you or someone else is at risk of serious harm.
How many sessions does my child need with Tessa?
There is no minimum or fixed number of sessions that you and your child need to attend. As part of our sessions, we will work together to make a treatment plan, and we will review this on-going.
In general I recommend 4-6 sessions to begin with but on many occasions more or less are appropriate. Ultimately, you are in control.
Most clients attend weekly or fortnightly, and will often drop down to monthly sessions when they feel they are ready. We believe that therapy is a long-term journey of commitment, growth, and investment.
I recommend booking in between 2-4 sessions in advance, due to calendar places filling up quickly.
Who is online therapy for?
All young minds are welcome to attend online therapy with me (Tessa) through The Mind Project. Online counselling provides an accessible, safe, and convenient option for those who are unable to attend face-to-face appointments, or simply prefer to meet online.
