How do I know if I need therapy?

I believe everybody will go through a struggle at least once in their life, whether it be due to a bereavement, childhood difficulties, depression, post traumatic stress or OCD or anything else. These difficulties are often very understandable and my role is to work with people and to help them make sense of these difficulties, how they started, what keeps them going and what can help break common patterns. You may wish to consider therapy if stress, or other difficult emotions or worries, get in the way of you achieving your goals, affect your relationships, and your overall happiness. Contact me for a free 15 minute video call and I will do my best to answer any questions you may have.

How long do I need therapy for, and can I take a break in therapy?

The length of therapy will depend on the nature of your difficulties, what you are prepared to commit to (in terms of time, finances, and emotional availability), and how well you respond to therapy. Initial consultation will enable you and your therapist to see if therapy would be helpful to you. We will come to an agreement regarding the duration of our work with you at the early stages of therapy, and will be reviewing our progress at an ongoing basis.

If you would like to take a break in therapy, for whatever reason, that is absolutely fine. You can discuss the possibility of restarting sessions with me at a later date. However, I cannot hold your slot open for your return as this might need to be offered to someone else who is waiting for therapy. If and when you return, your name will be added to my waiting list, and you will be informed when there is another slot available.

What type of issues could therapy help with?

I can help you with a broad range of difficulties, such as low self-esteem, stress, anxiety, phobias, mood difficulties, trauma, difficulties in relationships, and loss, and more. If I do not feel I am the best therapist for you I will help you to find someone who may specialise in the issue you are struggling with. Feel free to contact me for a free 15 minute video call to consult with me about this if you are not sure. Please click on “Therapy” at the top of this webpage for further details.

Will the sessions be confidential?

Yes, what you discuss with your therapist will be confidential. The only time confidentiality will be breached is if you disclose any information that makes me concerned that you, another adult or a child, is at serious risk. Whenever possible, I will aim to share my concerns with you before notifying anyone else (e.g. your GP).

Are you available during a crisis?

I am not available in a crisis. I am available to you during our scheduled appointment times. Please hit the button below at the bottom of this webpage for advice. If you need urgent help out of therapy times, you will need to contact your GP, crisis help lines (such as NHS Direct on 111, or The Samaritans on 08457909090), or emergency services, such as 999.

What happens if I need to cancel an appointment?

If you need to cancel or rearrange an appointment, please let your therapist know as soon as possible. I try to be flexible and, where possible, we can try to rearrange your appointment. If I notice/feel that your pattern of attendance is compromising your progress, I will discuss with you in order to understand what is getting the way, and consider how I can support you engage in a way that is helpful.

How often do I need to attend therapy?

I do recommend that you attend sessions weekly, particularly when beginning psychological therapy. Attending regularly and consistently will help you make progress with your difficulties. However, if you would prefer to meet me fortnightly or even wind down sessions to monthly please do speak to me and I will be happy to accommodate this request.

Do you accept payment from private health insurers?

I am afraid I do not accept payment from any health insurance companies. Some may let you claim the money direct from them and I would be happy to provide an invoice. Otherwise, all sessions are self funded. To find a therapist who does accept payment via insurers you may wish to check www.psychologytoday.co.uk or www.counsellingdirectory.org.uk to see who is available online or in your local area.