Below are some questions that are often asked about starting therapy with me. Please do get in touch if you have any other questions.
What happens in a first therapy session?
In a first session, I ask a little about what's been happening for you, along with any recent or past experiences that feel relevant, and any changes you've noticed in yourself. You can share as much or as little as you're comfortable with, there's no pressure -my priority is helping you feel at ease as we get to know each other.
From there, we set goals together for what you'd like to be different or better, and build a treatment plan and a rough number of sessions. I keep sessions purposeful and check in regularly on how you are finding therapy, to ensure that it doesn't drift without direction.
How long will I be in therapy for, and how often will I attend?
Some of my clients are in therapy for around 3-4 months, a few are in therapy for upwards of 10 months. Everyone's needs and reasons for therapy are different.
My clients usually attend either fortnightly or weekly, or a mix of both, depending on their own schedules and what has brought them to therapy, and frequency is often reduced /spaced out towards the end of therapy. I offer follow up afterwards for a few clients who like to check in every so often to keep on top of things.
What should I consider when looking for a therapist?
One of the most important things is that you choose a therapist you feel comfortable, safe and 'heard' with. Like other therapists, I offer an informal, completely no obligation and free 20-30 minute consultation call to see whether my way of working is a good fit for you.
You might also think about what kind of support suits you best. Some people prefer more of a counselling approach- space to talk, reflect, and work towards your own answers in your own time. Others prefer something more structured and active, using specific, evidence based interventions matched to what's bringing them to therapy. Neither is "better" - it's about what feels right for you.
You might consider whether a therapist or counsellor's experience, clinical background (i.e. nursing, psychology), qualifications or membership of a counselling regulatory body that sets expectations for professional and ethical practice, such as confidentiality, record keeping and relationships (these are: BACP, BABCP, COSCA, NCPS or UKCP) is important to you when considering a therapist.
You might hear a lot about 'trauma-informed' therapy and wonder what this really means or if this is relevant or important to you - please take a look at my Trauma Informed Therapy page, or research* (eg via google scholar, NHS Inform) to see what some of the aspects of trauma informed therapy are and what you might expect to see in a trauma informed therapist or counsellor.
* While social media channels can positively raise the profile of mental health, it is worth being aware that research shows that a large percentage (up to 83%) of mental health advice and commentary on social media platforms is misleading and unreliable, with 'techniques' isolated from their clinical foundations as quick fixes or catch-alls, but in reality are then rendered useless, or worse, unsafe out of context; with less than 7% of commentary, advice or techniques provided by genuine healthcare practitioners with clinical qualifications (like clinical psychology, mental health nursing).
How do you work?
I offer a warm, active, direct and collaborative approach, using evidence-based CBT and trauma processing therapies, and wider related therapies that foster reconnection with personal and emotional wellbeing - always tailored to individual needs.
I work with my clients at their own pace to understand and address the root causes of their difficultes and any repeating patterns - not just the surface symptoms -so that they can move forward with confidence, purpose, and renewed sense of self.
What happens in an initial consultation call?
Many people worry about knowing where to start -I guide the conversation by asking a little about the problem or issue you would like help with, how it is affecting you just now, and talk through how I may be able to help, and answer any questions you might have. You won't be asked to go into lots of detail -you're in control of what you share.
Please do feel free to get in touch- I try respond to enquiries within one working day, via email. Or, If you'd like to book an initial call with me to discuss therapy you can also do this here
What are your fees?
My standard therapy session (one hour) fee is generally £65, and I offer a reduced fee of £55 for keyworkers, students and people who are on a low income in order to make therapy more accessible.