Frequently Asked Questions
The initial consultation is an assessment session which is an opportunity for you to talk through your reasons for coming to psychotherapy. This may include any other information you are willing to share and we will discuss your hopes and expectations of psychotherapy.
The initial consultation is also an opportunity for you to ask me any questions you have about psychotherapy and the way I work.
If we decide to continue with the work, we will agree on the number of sessions needed and find a mutually convenient time to meet for these sessions.
Fees and confidentiality will also be discussed in this session.
You can talk about any problems and issues that concern you. Psychotherapy is a safe space that can support you during difficult times, helping you to cope with crisis or change as well as developing personal insight and understanding. Some of the issues that are brought include:
Abuse / addiction / anger management / anxiety / bereavement / breakdown of relationships / depression / self confidence / sexuality or sexual issues / trauma / stress / work related issues
The number of sessions varies depending on your needs and expectations from psychotherapy. This will be discussed in the initial consultation and usually a minimum of six sessions is suggested in the first instance which will be reviewed as the work progresses. There is the option of having long term psychotherapy if this is what is the most suitable.
Confidentiality is a crucial part of our work which means that no verbal or written information will be exchanged with another party without your consent.
However there are exceptions to this rule which includes if you or anyone else is at serious risk of harm or danger. This and other exceptions will be discussed in the initial consultation.
I maintain session notes to provide a professional, effective and safe service. These notes are kept separate from your contact details and are identifiable only to me by a coding system. In accordance with the BACP Ethical Framework, I adhere to strict anonymity in notes and do not include any information which could directly identify you.
Under the Data Protection Act (1988), you have the right to see the notes I keep about you within seven years. We would discuss this in the session to explore what you hope to gain from seeing your notes and we will come to a decision that suits your best interests.
I work with a strict policy of non-discrimination. I do not seek to judge your behaviour, choices or personal experiences and I do not discriminate on age, race, gender, sexuality, ethnicity, religion or disability.
To arrange an appointment, you can contact me either by:
Telephone: 0751 300 6928
Click here to email me
In times of acute crisis, you may want to contact me, your GP or local A&E but you can also contact the following organisations for support:
The Samaritans 08457 90 90 90
National Domestic Violence Helpline 0808 2000 247
RAPE Crisis Helpline 0808 802 9999
Victim Support 0845 303 0900
National Drugs Helpline aka Frank 0800 776600
NHS Direct 0845 46 47