FAQs

What is the difference between counselling & psychotherapy?

They are very similar and can sometimes be used interchangeably.

The main difference is that counselling tends to focus on helping you to deal with problems that are immediately presenting themselves whereas psychotherapy tends to be longer-term to treat deeper, more systemic challenges.

How do I know if I need counselling/psychotherapy?

Do you feel like:

• You need help clarifying & resolving a complex personal issue(s)?

• You want to change unhelpful patterns & behaviours?

• You want to accelerate your personal growth & development?

• You think you may need help with one of the issues listed here?

If yes to any of these, then you may benefit from professional support. Please feel free to get in touch to ask a question or book a free 30-minute phone consultation.

What kinds of people seek counselling/psychotherapy?

Everyone needs help from time to time. I am happy to help any adult who feels they need support (see above) regardless of culture, religion, gender, sex, sexual orientation, or employment group,

Our sessions will remain entirely confidential, so the only people who will know about your sessions will be you and me.

What is hypnotherapy and how does it work?

Hypnotherapy is a process where you enter a deep state of relaxation in order to bypass the conscious mind to work in the subconscious. Here we reprogram negative messages and behaviours that can manifest as self-defeating behaviours and undesired habits, making it easier for you to achieve what you want.

Essentially, we align your subconscious messaging with your conscious desires.

Unlike popular culture’s depictions of hypnosis, during hypnotherapy, you remain in complete control and cannot be made to do anything against your will.

What is reiki and how does it work?

Reiki is about boosting your personal energy to compliment your mental, emotional, spiritual, and physical healing processes.

It is the process of entering a deep state of calm and relaxation and, through the therapist, connecting to the universal lifeforce energy in order to heal your personal energy field.

Even without the energetic healing aspects of reiki, simply having a dedicated time and space to truly relax can be hugely beneficial to your wellbeing.

How long does a course of treatment usually last?

The guideline number of sessions is 6 to 10 as a minimum.

Every person and each challenge they face is different, however, so you may require more or fewer sessions depending upon the complexity of the issues you want to overcome. It isn’t uncommon for further topics of exploration to come up as you go through your treatment plan.

How long are your sessions?

Sessions with one type of treatment are 50 minutes.

Joint sessions with two types of treatment are 90 minutes (~45 minutes of each treatment). Joint sessions are typically only available as part of a bespoke treatment plan.

How much do your services cost?

Please see the services page for information about prices and discounts.

Do you offer discounts/concessions?

Yes. Please see the services page for information about prices and discounts.

Do you do evening and weekend appointments?

Currently, the only sessions I have available for new clients are on evenings and weekends.

Please get in touch to find out more.

What is involved with a counselling/therapy session?

The overall structure of your treatment plan will be bespoke to you so each person’s will be different. All sessions will provide you with a safe space for you to relax, explore and vocalise your thoughts.

You are welcome to discuss any issue you feel will benefit you. I will listen to what you say in a non-judgemental manner and facilitate you identifying ways to move forward in a constructive and positive way. The aim is to alleviate your distress or assist your personal development to the degree that you desire.

Sessions can take place:

• Over the phone

• Through video calling (Zoom, Skype, WhatsApp video)

• Face-to-Face (depending upon current Covid-19 restrictions & location)

Can you help me resolve more than one issue at a time?

Yes, however, it is generally better to focus on one presenting issue at a time. The nature of the treatment usually means that other issues are identified as we proceed. We can deal with them as best suits your specific situation as everyone’s needs will be different.

Can I transfer from a different counsellor/therapist to you?

Of course, although I don’t recommend you seeing two simultaneously.

Additionally, you may need to complete your current course of treatment if it is being provided by the NHS.

Does my GP need to refer me?

Generally, no, you are free to refer yourself.

Who is involved in counselling/therapy sessions?

Just you and me. Everything you say will remain confidential unless you want to share it.

The only times that I will disclose the contents of our sessions to anyone are if:

• I believe that you pose a serious risk to your own health or the health of those around you

• I believe that you intend to break the law

• You give me express permission to do so

What is the next step?

Get in touch here. I will endeavour to respond to your message or call as soon as possible.