Frequently Asked Questions
- How do I know if you are the right therapist for me?
The initial consultation will allow you to form an opinion of whether you feel you can work with me. It also allows me to decide whether therapy with me is appropriate for you or whether you would be better served by a specialist agency or another therapist - in which case, I would suggest a referral. Our first meeting also gives you the opportunity to discuss what you hope to achieve from therapy. - How long will therapy take?
Each session lasts for 50 minutes but the duration of therapy depends on whether you wish to focus on a relatively straight-forward issue or whether there is a more deep-seated difficulty which requires a more in-depth and therefore longer term exploration. I usually suggest an initial contract of six weeks to begin with and then we can have a discussion about whether longer term therapy is appropriate. In any case, I encourage regular reviews to gauge whether you feel you are getting what you need from the therapy. It is important that a commitment is made to weekly sessions so that continuity is maintained and to ensure that you are supported through what can be a difficult process. In some cases, more than one session a week may be beneficial. - Is what I tell you confidential?
Yes, absolutely. The principle of confidentiality is enshrined in the Codes of Ethics to which I am bound through my membership of The United Kingdom Council for Psychotherapy (UKCP) and The Welsh Psychotherapy Partnership (see links on previous page). The only exceptions to confidentiality which might require me to breach the agreement would be where the law compels me to do so - for example, The Children's Act, 1989; The Prevention of Terrorism Act, 2003. I will discuss these exceptional circumstances with you at our initial session. Where possible, I would always seek to involve you in any prospective disclosure. - How does the contract work?
Basically, we agree the issue(s) you wish to work on and which day(s) and at what time the sessions will take place. Once agreed, you "own" that session time. Should you be unable to attend a session, I need at least 48 hours notice of cancellation. After this time, the full fee is payable. Should I be forced to cancel a session, no fee will be charged. - How much will it cost?
My fees range from £40-£50 per session. I reserve a limited number of lower cost places.
