What is the difference between counselling and psychotherapy?

Counselling tends to be shorter in duration and deals more with a specific issue or problem you are facing. In psychotherapy, we often delve deeper into the root causes behind the challenges you face and as such the work tends to be longer-term, often extending beyond a year. What starts as counselling can evolve into psychotherapy. In practice the two terms are often interchangeable and they overlap with commonalities. There is potential for relief of symptoms and lasting change in both forms of therapy.

Will our sessions be confidential?

Our work together is confidential. The only and extremely rare exceptions to this would be if I believe that you are at risk of serious harm to yourself or others or if I as a therapist am ordered to do so by a court of law.

Will it be difficult?

Taking a step into the unknown when starting therapy, from making that first contact to arriving at the first appointment (especially if you are new to therapy), shows great courage and determination, as well as hope that things can improve in your life. I feel that these inherent qualities you bring as a client are in themselves encouraging and serve as great allies as you strive to healing and growth in your therapy journey and beyond. Counselling and psychotherapy require commitment to change and change is not something many of us find easy, there is often a resistance to this process and acknowledging this very human trait can be useful if we are to move forward with our therapeutic goals. Having been in the client seat myself, I also understand how nerve-wracking it can feel to take that first step and my aim is to support you as you navigate new territory.

How long will the therapy be?

There is no set length of time that clients stay with me as everyone is unique. Normally after the introductory session, we agree to six more sessions as a starting point after which we review and if you want to, continue for a longer period of time. As the client, you can then decide when you are ready to leave therapy.

What happens in the first session and beyond?

This is a chance for you to share with me what is troubling you and for me to start to discover ways of working with you. You can also let me know if you are looking for shorter or long term therapy and what you are looking to gain from therapy as well as ask any questions you may have. The first and subsequent sessions are 50 minutes long and we meet for regular scheduled sessions at the same time and day every week. Together we explore what matters to you and what gets in the way of of achieving what you want in life. The process of undergoing therapy allows you to gain greater awareness of yourself and insight into the challenges you face, giving you greater choice to effect any changes you may want to make. My style is supportive and I am also able to gently challenge you when needed. I believe we all need care and encouragement to flourish, as well as honest and compassionate feedback in order to fulfill our potential. Working with me in a dynamic and collaborative way, I hope that you may discover for yourself ways in which you can heal from that which feels distressing and painful in your life.

Are you insured ?

Yes, I hold professional indemnity insurance with Balens.

What if I can’t make a session?

I have a 48 hour cancellation policy, otherwise the fee for a missed session remains payable. With notice, I may be able to reschedule an appointment within the same week but this cannot be guaranteed.