Lighter Loads Wellness & Consultancy
Professional Mental Health Services
In Person: Binan, Laguna and Telehealth
Frequently Asked Questions
What services do you provide?
We provide counseling, psychotherapy, psychiatric consultation, and psychological assessment services in-person at our Binan, Laguna center and virtually via videoconference.
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What is counseling and psychotherapy?
Counseling and psychotherapy are both types of mental health treatment that help individuals understand and cope with emotional, behavioral, or psychological difficulties. While they share similarities, there are some differences between the two.
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Counseling primarily focuses on short-term goals and targets specific issues such as relationship problems, adjusting to life changes, or managing stress. It often involves a supportive and solution-oriented approach, where the counselor listens, provides guidance, and helps the individual develop coping strategies.
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On the other hand, psychotherapy tends to be more in-depth and focuses on exploring the root causes of emotional and psychological problems. It aims to promote long-term change by increasing self-awareness, understanding patterns of behavior, and addressing deeper issues like trauma or unresolved conflicts.
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It's important to note that seeking counseling or psychotherapy does not indicate weakness. It is a proactive step towards taking care of one's mental health and seeking support to overcome challenges and lead a more fulfilling life
What can I expect in my session?
In a psychotherapy session, you can typically expect a safe and confidential environment where you can discuss your thoughts, feelings, and concerns with a trained mental health professional. Here are some common features of a psychotherapy session:
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1. Initial Assessment: The first few sessions may involve an assessment period where the therapist will gather information about your background, current concerns, and goals for therapy.
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2. Active Listening: The therapist will attentively listen to what you say, allowing you to express yourself openly and without judgment. They may ask questions to better understand your experiences.
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3. Collaborative Relationship: Therapy is a collaborative process where you work together with the therapist to explore and address your concerns. They will provide support, guidance, and feedback throughout the session.
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4. Goal Setting: You'll work with the therapist to establish specific goals and objectives for therapy. These goals will help guide the direction and focus of your sessions.
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5. Exploration and Reflection: The therapist will encourage self-reflection and explore any underlying issues contributing to your difficulties. They may help you gain insight into patterns of behaviors, thoughts, and emotions.
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6. Techniques and Approaches: Depending on the therapist's theoretical orientation and your unique needs, they may utilize various therapeutic techniques, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, psychodynamic therapy, mindfulness, or solution-focused therapy.
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7. Emotional Support: Participating in therapy can stir up different emotions, and the therapist will offer empathy, reassurance, and emotional support during challenging moments.
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8. Homework or Exercises: Depending on your progress, the therapist may suggest activities or tasks for you to practice outside of sessions, which can help reinforce learning and promote personal growth.
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9. Confidentiality: Your therapist is generally bound by ethical and legal obligations to maintain confidentiality, creating a safe space for open and honest communication. However, there are limits to confidentiality, such as when there is a risk to your safety or others'.
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Remember, therapy sessions can vary depending on your goals, the therapist's approach, and your unique circumstances. It is essential to find a therapist who is a good fit for you and to communicate your expectations and concerns openly to make the most of your psychotherapy experience.
How many sessions do I need?
The number of counseling sessions needed can vary depending on various factors such as the nature of the issue, its complexity, your personal goals, and your progress throughout the counseling process. Generally, short-term counseling may involve around 6-12 sessions, while longer-term counseling can extend to several months or even longer.
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It's important to note that counseling is a collaborative process, and the duration of therapy depends on your individual needs and circumstances. It's best to discuss this with a qualified professional who can assess your situation and provide a more accurate estimate based on their expertise.
Where are you located?
Our physical office is located within the Caltex Station in Halang, Binan Laguna. It is searchable using WAZE or Google Maps.
What if I don't like my sessions?
Our mental health practitioners always strives to align with our clients to achieve the best possible consultation experience. However, from time to time it is possible to feel that the current counseling or psychotherapy relationship one has may not be a good fit.
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When this happens there are a few things you can consider doing:
1. Communicate openly: Talk to your counselor about your concerns or discomfort. Honest communication could help address any misunderstandings or make adjustments to the counseling approach.
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2. Discuss your expectations: Reflect on the goals and expectations you have for counseling. Share these with your counselor to ensure you're both aligned in terms of what you want to achieve and how the process should go.
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3. Seek a different perspective: Consider getting a second opinion from another counselor or therapist. Sometimes, a fresh perspective can provide new insights and approaches that might resonate better with you.
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Remember, finding the right counselor-client fit is crucial for a successful counseling experience. Don't be discouraged if one counselor isn't a good match; there are many professionals out there with different approaches and specialties. Lighter Loads will work with you to find the therapist that suits you best.