Frequently Asked Questions

It’s completely normal to have questions before starting therapy — especially if this is your first time, or if you’re unsure what to expect. Below are answers to some of the most common things people wonder about before we begin.

If you don’t see your question here, you’re always welcome to reach out. No question is too small.

  • You’re welcome to contact me directly using the contact form or by email at lineevdmeer@gmail.com.

  • Prior to your first session, I will send you a link to some online forms I need you to fill out. This includes an informed consent form (that will tell you a bit about what to expect from therapy and my practice policies) as well as a client details form asking for some some basic details as well as your reason for seeking therapy and what you’re hoping to get out of therapy. This is really helpful as it gives you an opportunity to be clear about what you want from the process and it helps me have more of an idea of what we will be focussing on in session.

    Apart from that, there’s nothing you need to do in advance. Some people find it helpful to jot down a few thoughts or questions they’d like to explore, but it’s completely okay to arrive with uncertainty. We’ll begin wherever you are.

  • Our first session is a chance for us to get to know each other and begin to understand what’s bringing you to therapy. I’ll ask some gentle questions about your current situation, your hopes for therapy, and any important context. You're welcome to share as much or as little as feels comfortable — this is your space.

  • Sessions are typically 50 minutes. If you’d like a longer session (for example, if you’re coming as a couple or working through something complex), we can discuss that together and schedule extra time as needed.

  • To get the most out of therapy, I generally recommend weekly sessions, especially in the beginning. Meeting regularly helps build momentum, maintain focus, and allows us to work more effectively toward meaningful change.

    Once you've made solid progress and feel more resourced, we can look at moving to fortnightly or ad hoc sessions, depending on what feels supportive for you at that stage.

    Therapy works best when it's consistent — and we'll always check in together to find a rhythm that meets your needs and goals.

  • That’s completely okay. Many people feel tearful or vulnerable in therapy — especially in the early stages. I’ll hold space for whatever shows up, gently and without judgment. You don’t need to apologise for your emotions here.

  • No — my practice is focused on therapy rather than formal assessments or medico-legal reports. If you need a psychological assessment (e.g., for ADHD, educational support, or legal matters), I’m happy to help refer you to a colleague who offers this service.

  • Absolutely. You don’t need to be in crisis to benefit from therapy. Many people come simply because something feels off — a sense of disconnection, dissatisfaction, or quiet longing for more. You’re not “taking up space.” If you feel drawn to explore something, that’s enough.

  • Unfortunately not. My clinic hours are Tuesdays, Wednesday and Fridays between 9:30am (earliest session) and 1:15pm (latest session).

  • Online sessions are held over Zoom. I’ll send you a link right before your appointment. All you need is a quiet, private space and a stable internet connection. Many clients find online sessions just as meaningful and effective as in-person work — and often more convenient.

  • Yes, I take brief clinical notes after each session to support our work together. These notes are stored securely in line with ethical and legal standards. Everything you share is confidential, with a few exceptions (such as risk of harm) which I’ll discuss with you at our first session. You're welcome to ask more about this at any time.

  • It depends on what you're coming in for, and how deep the work needs to go.

    If you're seeking support with a specific, short-term issue (like improving sleep, navigating a conflict at work, or making a focused decision) a few sessions (1–3) may be enough.

    For more complex or long-standing issues such as recurring relationship patterns, deep-seated emotional struggles, trauma, or major life transitions, it’s more realistic to expect a longer process. In these cases, somewhere between 6–12 sessions or more is often needed to create lasting change.

    In couples therapy, I typically find that 6–12 sessions is a good starting point for addressing relational issues that aren't too entrenched or high in conflict. More complex or long-standing challenges may take longer to work through.

    That said, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. We’ll check in regularly to make sure the work is feeling meaningful and helpful, and adjust the pacing as needed.

  • Unfortunately, I only offer therapy to clients who are currently living in New Zealand.

    This is because many countries require therapists to be licensed or registered in the country where the client resides. Providing therapy across international borders can raise legal and ethical issues, and may not be covered under my professional indemnity insurance.

    If you're based overseas and looking for support, I recommend finding a therapist who is registered or licensed in your local jurisdiction. That way, you're fully protected and can access care within the legal and ethical framework of your country.