FAQs
If you are considering therapy or counselling for the first time, you may have a number of questions to help you decide if it is best fit for your needs. This page aims to help you with answers to common queries.
Please contact me if you have other questions which are not covered in this section. Further information is available in this video – Your Journey, Step-by-Step.
Below, you will also find more information about my fees and charges.
Q: I’ve never had therapy (or counselling?) before. How can I find out more?
A: I offer an initial 15 minute chat to help you decide if counselling or therapy is right for you. This is a no-cost, no-pressure conversation: just a warm, friendly chat. It allows us to discuss what is bringing you to therapy right now and for me to explain how I work. It is also a chance for you to see if you feel comfortable with me, which is the most important factor for success.
Q: How quickly can I have an appointment?
A: My aim is to respond to all enquiries promptly. Usually I can offer a first meeting within two weeks of your initial contact.
Q: Do I need a GP referral?
A: No, you can self-refer. Simply send an email, call me or use the contact form to begin the process.
Q: Where do sessions take place?
A: Online: Secure video conferencing (Zoom), audio, or even instant messaging.
Q: How much does it cost?
|
Type of session |
Per hour |
|
Initial 15 minute telephone consultation |
No charge |
|
Individual |
£85 |
|
Couple |
£100 |
|
Family |
£125 |
|
Supervision |
£85 |
|
Group support/Workshop |
£25 |
|
Organisations |
£85 |
Q: What is your cancellation policy?
A: Kindly provide at least 24 hours’ notice if you need to cancel a session. Sessions cancelled with less than 24 hours’ notice or unattended appointments will incur a charge, unless there are exceptional circumstances.
Q: Is what I say to you private?
A: Absolutely. I work within the BACP and UKCP ethical codes. Everything discussed is confidential, with the rare exception of legal requirements or if there is a serious risk of harm to yourself or others, which we would discuss in our first session.
Q: Are you registered with professional bodies?
A: Yes, I am an accredited member of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) and the United Kingdom Council for Psychotherapy (UKCP).
Q: How does "Systemic" psychotherapy differ from standard counselling?
A: Systemic therapy looks at the “system” or the networks of relationships you are part of (such as family, work, culture). Instead of just looking at the individual, we explore how these interactions shape your feelings and behaviours.
Q: I'm a practising therapist/counsellor. Do you offer clinical supervision ?
A: Yes. I provide clinical supervision for both trainee and qualified therapists, as well as specialised workshops for organisations to improve accountability and reduce workplace stress.
