What (the actual) is Psychotherapy?
What is a Psychotherapist?
A psychotherapist is someone who works with people to support emotional, psychological, physical and relational wellbeing. In therapy, a psychotherapist helps individuals, couples, or families explore their experiences, patterns, relationships and emotional/mental loops and how these may be contributing to current struggles. Rather than focusing on diagnosis and pathology, psychotherapists often take a holistic and relational approach, looking at the broader context of a person's life and history. Other professionals such a psychologist and psychiatrist, get some training in psychotherapy, But some people train specifically in the psychotherapy, which has a deep tradition, and takes many years. This is how Psychotherapy – unlike counselling and psychology alone - can facilitate deep personality change. This is my passion.
How Can a Psychotherapist Help?
People seek out psychotherapy an counselling for many different reasons. Some come with a clear concern, such as anxiety, grief, or relationship issues. Others may feel a more general sense that something isn’t right, or that they want to grow and understand themselves more deeply. In therapy, I will listen carefully to what’s bringing you in, help you identify any recurring patterns or contributing factors. We look at what you can do differently to interrupt the unhelpful patterns, and offer tools, reflections, and education to support change, to insight and healing. We’ll work together to set meaningful goals, at your own pace. My intention is to help you move toward more clarity, agency, and connection in your life.
How Does Psychotherapy Work?
Psychotherapy unfolds differently for each person. It often begins with an open exploration of what you’re finding difficult, and from there we start to notice patterns, perhaps in how you relate to others, how you speak to yourself, or how past experiences might still be shaping the present. As we build trust and understanding, you may start to experience shifts in how you feel, think, and act. These changes aren’t always immediate; some issues require longer-term work. Sometimes, that unsettles things, so the work needs to support you as change. Therapy offers a space to slow down, reflect, and make sense of things, sometimes for the first time.
Finding the Right Psychotherapist
Finding the right therapist is an important part of the process. Sometimes people feel a strong sense of connection right away. Other times, it takes a few sessions to see how the relationship feels. The therapeutic relationship itself is often a key part of healing, especially for those with a history of relationship trauma, neglect or betrayal. In our work together, we’ll check in regularly about how things are going. If it turns out that another therapist or approach may be better suited, we can talk openly about that and I’m happy to help you find the right fit.
Is Psychotherapy Right for Me?
You don’t need to be in crisis to benefit from therapy. Many people come to better understand themselves, make sense of big transitions, or learn how to relate differently to emotions, relationships, or life’s challenges. If you’re feeling stuck, overwhelmed, disconnected, or simply curious about how therapy might support you, reach out and we’ll have 1 free 15 minute call. It is my pleasure to work with people of all backgrounds, identities, and walks of life, and offer a warm, non-judgemental space for exploration and growth.
How Much Does Psychotherapy Cost?
Seeing Bel Fin at Riverkin Therapy, is $150 per session for individuals. Compare this to psychology appointments which start from $240 per 50 minutes. This price reflects my training, experience, and the depth of work we do together. Unlike psychologists operating under the Medicare system, psychotherapy with me is offered privately. This allows for flexibility in how we work, without the requirement for a mental health care plan or a formal diagnosis. Unlike traditional psychology, diagnosis is used to point toward treatment not to identify you at ‘sick’. Talk to me about your private health funds.
If you have any questions or would like to see if this work feels right for you, I welcome you to get in touch and we will book in a 15 min phone call to see if we are a good therapeutic fit.