Q&A

How long is a session?

A session lasts for 50 minutes.

How much do you charge?

I charge £40.00 per session except for the initial session which is at a considerably reduced rate.  (See 'Initial Session')

How often do we meet?

I see people on a weekly basis.  

Some clients like to book  six sessions initially so that they can get a feel for what psychotherapy involves.  They are in a more informed position to decide whether or not they wish to make a commitment.  

Occasionally a client will feel the need to have extra sessions and we can arrange this if need be.

What can I expect from therapy?

When you come to see a psychotherapist, you are securing a regular space for yourself.  This is a safe place where you can reflect with someone on difficulties you may be experiencing.  This time to reflect can lead to insights and discoveries by you that in turn may lead to you exploring different ways of addressing your difficulties. 

How do I know it is safe?

The nature of therapy is deeply private so we agree to keep our sessions  confidential, and I only  discuss your material with a more experienced practitioner called a supervisor. 

A supervisor is a highly skilled practitioner who has been involved in working with clients for many years.  My supervisor supports and informs the clinical aspects of my work.

Any practitioner who has trained will be more than happy to discuss their training, qualifications, ways of working etc.  Work of this nature supports transparency, so it is important you take the time to ask questions.

Why not talk with my friends and family?

Sometimes people who come to therapy have already talked with friends and family.  Whilst we can draw on family and friendships for support with some difficulties, because they are often deeply involved with us they may not be best placed to help us with some difficulties. 

Engaging in a relationship with a professional gives you the opportunity to come into contact with a broader range of thinking and feeling than you may be used to - this in turn can provide you with opportunities. 

Sometimes people come to therapy because of a sense of unease that has persisted no matter what.  Sometimes it can take time for us to identify what the difficulties are about as it may not always be obvious. 

How do I know whether to go to a counsellor or therapist?

By seeing and talking with a range of practitioners, you will get an idea of how different people work.  As a rule of thumb, counselling is often for in the present difficulties which although may have their roots in the past, are amenable to short term work and intervention.  Psychotherapy is for those clients who are dealing with persistent and ongoing difficulty in one or several areas of their lives.  This involves more indepth work, which often needs to take place over a longer period of time.