Frequently asked questions.
It is very common to have questions when starting therapy. Below are responses to some questions people often have.
If there’s something you’re wondering about which isn't answered here, please do raise it with me. I see therapy as a collaborative process, and if we work together, I will be happy to explore questions that may arise along the way.
What is psychotherapy and who is it for?
You may find this video helpful by the School of Life (3mins).
If you would like to read more about psychotherapy, I recommend starting here with a description from my registering body the UKCP (UK Council for Psychotherapy).
What happens in sessions?
I will be there to think with you about whatever you bring to our sessions. What we explore about will be decided by you, giving you the chance to express yourself freely. As I accompany you on this journey, I might be curious about links to your experiences both in the present and past.
Together we might think about what brings you to therapy, work through challenges, or explore new ways of being to help you change behaviours or relationships.
I will work to tailor my approach to suit your personality and individual needs.
Can I see you urgently?
I do not offer urgent mental health support. If you require urgent help, I recommend calling your local emergency services or helplines.
Beginning therapy
What happens in the initial consultations?
The consultation process offers you time to see whether you’d like to begin ongoing weekly sessions with me.
We'll meet for two consultation sessions, each lasting 50 minutes. These can either be online or in the therapy room, according to your preference. There is no obligation to begin therapy afterwards.
These sessions are about us meeting and thinking about what brings you to therapy. It’s a chance to experience what I’m like, how I work, and to get a sense if I’m a good fit for you.
You can ask me questions about therapy, and I will talk to you about how I work. This will include my policy on confidentiality, fees, cancellations, and appointment times.
If we decide to work together, we'll also agree a set number of sessions to work towards, typically ranging between 3 and 6 months. We will then set up a regular day and time for your weekly therapy session.
Time and ending therapy
How often are sessions and how long do they last?
Your weekly therapy sessions will take place on the same day and time each week, each session lasting 50 minutes. I currently offer time-limited work, typically running for 3 to 6 months, with the exact number of sessions agreed together during your consultations.
How do we end therapy?
Because we agree a set number of sessions together at the outset — typically 3 to 6 months — the ending is something we're able to plan for and work towards from early on, rather than it being a decision that arises partway through. This is often a valuable part of the process in itself, offering space to reflect on the work and what you're taking forward.
As we approach the agreed end point, we'll use some of our remaining sessions together to think about the ending itself, so that it feels well held rather than abrupt. If towards the end of our work together you feel you'd like further support, or have identified areas you'd like to explore in more depth, we can think together about how you can best be supported — including, where helpful, finding another therapist to continue working with.
Confidentiality
Are sessions confidential?
Yes, all sessions are confidential. This is a key part of therapy so that you may feel entirely free to express yourself.
The only exceptions to confidentiality are if I am required to disclose information by a court of law, or to protect you or someone else from significant harm.
All information I hold about clients is covered by the Data Protection Act 1988 and the General Data Protection Regulations (GDPR) 2018, and will not be disclosed to third parties.
Other
Do I need a GP referral?
No. You don’t need a GP referral, or a referral from anyone else to see me.
Can you prescribe me medication?
No, I do not prescribe medication. Some people find it helps them to be supported by both therapy and medication. If this is something that arises for you while we work together, I can help you think about getting medical support.
What happens if you can’t help me with my specific issue?
If I feel that you would be better supported by another therapist or organisation I will discuss this with you. I will guide you to appropriate support if I feel you need more specialist help with an issue.