Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between psychotherapy and counselling?
I see psychotherapy and counselling as one and the same process with the main difference being the amount of time you spend in therapy. Some clients want to look at making changes about particular issues over a short time period (traditionally thought of as counselling) and others may want to work longer term to look more deeply about issues that are troubling them and affecting their lives.
How are you protected?
The content of our sessions is confidential between us. We will discuss the details of our confidentiality agreement when we meet. I work within the Ethical Framework of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) and adhere to the United Kingdom Council of Psychotherapy (UKCP) Code of Ethical Principles and Code of Professional Conduct. As part of my professional practice I receive regular clinical supervision and I am committed to ongoing personal and professional development.
What will happen at the initial session?
The purpose of the initial session is to give us a chance to meet each other and get a sense of how we feel working together. We will talk about what brings you to therapy and what you are hoping to resolve or achieve. It will be an opportunity for me to ask you some background questions about yourself and to explain how I work. If you don't feel that therapy with me is right for you there is no obligation to continue.
How long will therapy take?
This decision will depend on what you are trying to address or change in your life. It will also depend on how you wish to approach therapy whether by looking more deeply at underlying issues or to focus on particular issues within a specific time frame. Together we can discuss these different ways of working when we meet.
How much will it cost?
I currently charge £40 for a 50 minute session. I also offer a limited number of lower cost sessions by negotiation.
