FAQ
proactive professional help – when you need it
Q: Why do you not share client testimonials?
A: Confidentiality is a cornerstone ethical principle of our counselling and therapy together. What we discuss doesn’t leave the room. I adhere to the NCPS Code of Ethics here. So I don’t share your or other client comments or feedback. I’m delighted to say that my clients often refer me.
Q: I want to make quick progress. Can you help?
A: Yes. We can schedule multiple sessions when you need them, extend to 90 minute sessions and I find retreat-style ‘workshopping’ issues can really shift things. That said, go easy on yourself, give your mind time to adjust, settle, notice new patterns and become curious. One hour a week or fortnight is fine too. As therapy progresses you can often notice the work happening between sessions.
Q: You look like you're at the beach?
A: I want you to get a good feel for who you’ll be working with. And, yes, time in nature and being active have always been important to me. That said, I spent years sat on the London Underground Circle Line “Tube” contemplating my life choices! Your therapy is very much about you, but also who you choose to work with.
Q: Do you work with men and women?
A: I work with anyone as long as we can form a good therapeutic relationship which works for you. I’ll happily signpost you if I feel I’m not the right fit. Only around 15% of therapy and counselling professionals in the UK are male.
Q: Isn't face-to-face or online better than phone?
A: All can work. It’s down to personal preference and lifestyle. Therapists have strong views on this, but my experience is that what can be lost in body language and eye contact, is gained in a less challenging voice-only, deep-thinking call . I specialise in phone work in my private practice.
Q: I've had CBT and it didn't really work for me. How are you different?
A: I’ll start by saying there are literally hundreds of therapeutic techniques out there and that CBT has gained a level of “evidence base”, is often a first point of contact with therapy, and can be a good fix, sometimes alongside medication etc. Many of my clients have tried CBT already. I do integrate a little CBT in my process, as a qualified integrative counsellor. But most of my work is led by you and what you bring to each session – that said, I’m told I’m far from passive!
Q: How long does it take?
A: Anywhere from two sessions to two years. It’s up to you. When you feel “OK” again, if that was your goal, and are confident in being “OK” in any situation going forward. When you can counsel yourself kindly it is often a great sign it could be time for a break from our work or even an ending. We review every 6th session.
Q: I'm struggling right now...
A: Talk to someone, your GP, your doctor, or for the UK give Samaritans a confidential call 24/7 (call 116123).
I’ll usually get back to you the same day. My clients have access to me between sessions and I can schedule sessions at short notice.
Q: How many clients do you have?
A: Six. When I set up private practice my goal was to fit around my clients’ lifestyles and needs and be fully available to do the deep work. So I only work with 6 clients at any time.