Therapy at Picton Psychology:
How Does It Actually Work?
Have you ever wondered how therapy creates real, lasting change? At Picton Psychology, we believe in demystifying the process so you can feel more informed and empowered as you begin or continue your therapeutic journey.
While no two therapy journeys are the same, this blog will give you a clearer idea of what change can look like over time and why consistency, honesty, and patience are key.
What Is Therapy?
Therapy is a safe and supportive space where you can explore what’s going on for you, whether that’s difficult thoughts, overwhelming emotions, patterns in relationships, or life challenges that feel hard to manage on your own. It’s a space where you’ll be listened to with care, without judgment, and where your experiences will be met with respect and understanding.
At Picton Psychology, we use evidence-based therapies that are tailored to your unique needs and goals. Depending on what you’re experiencing, your psychologist may draw from approaches like Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), or other effective methods to support your wellbeing.
Therapy isn’t just about feeling better in the moment, it’s about helping you make sense of things, develop tools to cope more effectively, and feel more confident navigating life’s ups and downs. Whether you’re experiencing anxiety, depression, stress, grief, trauma, or just feeling stuck, we’re here to walk alongside you and support you in creating meaningful and lasting change.
How Does Change Actually Happen?
Often people come to therapy expecting quick results. While some clients do feel relief early on, lasting change usually takes time, especially if the challenges you’re facing have been around for a long while.
Early improvements might feel encouraging, but they don’t necessarily mean your work is done. Long-term change, such as shifts in how you think, feel, and function day-to-day usually emerges through ongoing, consistent sessions.
At Picton Psychology, we see therapy as a layered process. Some sessions might feel like a breakthrough. Others may feel challenging, or even like you're taking a step back. This is a normal part of the journey.
What to Expect Along the Way
You’ll Have Good Days and Bad Days
Change isn’t linear. You may notice progress one week, only to feel stuck or overwhelmed the next. These fluctuations don’t mean therapy isn’t working, they’re actually a sign that deeper emotional work is taking place.
We encourage you to come to sessions during both the highs and the lows. When you’re feeling strong, there’s often more capacity for reflection and goal setting. When you’re struggling, it’s an important time to receive support and gain tools to get through it.
Your honesty especially during the difficult moments helps your psychologist tailor your treatment in a way that’s meaningful and effective for you.
It’s OK to Feel Vulnerable
Therapy often brings up difficult feelings. That’s not a sign to stop, it’s usually a sign you’re getting closer to the root of things. At Picton Psychology, we walk alongside you during these raw and uncertain moments, with compassion and care.
Being transparent with your psychologist, even when you feel guilt, shame, or discomfort is one of the most powerful things you can do in the process.
Why Consistency Matters
Psychological wounds, just like physical ones, don’t heal overnight. Often, we’ve learned to put emotional ‘bandaids’ in place to keep going. Therapy helps us take those off, examine the underlying pain, and begin to truly heal.
This isn’t always easy. Sometimes it can feel like things get harder before they get better. But with regular sessions, you’re building a foundation for deep, long-term change.
Consistency helps create the safety, momentum, and trust needed to face long-standing patterns and rebuild healthier ones in their place.
How Many Sessions Will I Need?
Research offers some helpful insight into how therapy can progress. While the following figures are based on international studies, not specific to the Australian population they provide a general guide:
- Around 10–18% of people report feeling better simply after booking their first session
- Approximately 53% see improvement after 8 sessions
- About 74% show progress after 26 sessions
- Up to 83% experience significant change after a full year of therapy
At Picton Psychology, we recognise that everyone’s journey is different. We work collaboratively with you to tailor the frequency and duration of therapy to suit your goals, preferences, and pace. Whether you’re seeking short-term support or a longer-term therapeutic relationship, we’re here to meet you where you’re at and support you in a way that feels right for you.
Final Thoughts
Therapy is a courageous step toward greater self-awareness, healing, and wellbeing. At Picton Psychology, we’re here to support you with warmth, professionalism, and genuine care wherever you’re at in your journey.
If you’re ready to begin or return to therapy, reach out to our team. Change takes time, but you don’t have to do it alone.