FAQ’s
1. Why should I see a Clinical Psychologist?
A Clinical Psychologist offers an evidence‑based approach to understanding your experiences, especially when those experiences involve trauma, long‑standing patterns, or difficulties that feel hard to untangle on your own. Rather than focusing only on symptoms, Clinical Psychologists take time to understand the whole picture: what you’ve been through, how it’s affecting you now and what might help you move forward. Clinical Psychologists are trained in trauma‑informed practice and evidence‑based therapies such as CBT and EMDR. This means the support you receive is grounded in research, adapted to your needs and delivered with an understanding of how trauma can shape thoughts, emotions, relationships and the body’s response. Working with a Clinical Psychologist can help you make sense of your experiences, reduce distress and build confidence in your ability to cope and heal.
2. What happens and how will I feel in the first session?
Your first session begins with a clear explanation of confidentiality. We then explore what brings you to therapy? What’s worrying you? What you’d like to change? When the difficulty began? What you’ve already tried, How things are affecting your day‑to‑day life? You’ll also be asked what you want to be different and what your goals for therapy are. At the end of the session, I summarise what you’ve shared and suggest a course of therapy. If therapy isn’t advisable at this time, I will discuss this with you. Many people find the assessment session emotional or tiring, especially if it’s the first time they’ve spoken openly about their concerns, but they often describe feeling relieved and reassured that support is available.
3. Is it confidential?
Yes, confidentiality is explained fully in your first session and in the terms and conditions you receive by email beforehand. Sessions are confidential, but there are limits. If there is reason to believe you or someone else may be at risk of harm, confidentiality cannot be maintained. Wherever possible, any concerns that may require confidentiality to be broken would be discussed with you.
4. How many sessions will I need?
The number of sessions needed depends on the agreed focus of the work. During your first session, or during an agreed extended assessment period, we will agree on the focus for therapy. For some people, the assessment alone provides enough clarity to help them move forward. For others, therapy may not be appropriate immediately, for example if other stressors need addressing first. When therapy is suitable, the number of sessions varies: some people benefit from 4-8 sessions, while others with more complex or long‑standing difficulties may need 20 or more.
5. Do you offer online sessions?
Yes. Sessions are available via Zoom or by telephone, offering you flexible access to therapy outside of office hours, from your home or other location.
6. Do you work with children or couples?
No. We currently work only with individual adult clients.
7. Can I switch between online and in-person sessions?
Yes. You can choose online or in‑person sessions depending on what suits your schedule. We simply ask for enough notice to make the necessary arrangements.
8. Who can refer?
We accept referrals from adults wishing to self‑refer, as well as GPs, private medical insurers, rehabilitation and case managers, solicitors, healthcare providers, emergency services, occupational health departments, corporate clients and HR personnel. Please use our ‘Contact Us’ form to make an enquiry.
9. How do I book?
You can book a session by completing the ‘Contact Us’ form on our Contact page.
10. How long are sessions?
Sessions typically last one hour. Longer sessions of 90 minutes can be arranged if needed. Sessions may be weekly, fortnightly, or monthly depending on your needs.
11. How much is it?
Session fees vary depending on the type of therapy required. You’re welcome to contact us through the ‘Contact Us’ form to discuss your needs. Fees for self‑funding clients are payable prior to the session by bank transfer. We also work with several private medical insurers, including Bupa and Aviva, please contact us to check whether we work with your provider.
12. What happens if I can’t attend?
A cancellation fee is charged for sessions cancelled with less than 24 hours notice.
