FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN COUNSELLING AND PSYCHOTHERAPY?
There is lots of crossover between counselling and psychotherapy. Generally, counselling tends to be slightly more problem specific and shorter term while psychotherapy is a longer, more in-depth exploration of issues. Psychotherapists have often undergone slightly longer trainings and have also been in personal therapy for a number of years in order to qualify. Neither is better than the other and you need not decide between them. We will just work together in the best way that suits you.
HOW OFTEN SHOULD I HAVE THERAPY SESSIONS?
Therapy sessions usually take place weekly. This allows for adequate time to reflect and absorb the information each week, but not so long that information is forgotten. However, you are in charge of your own schedule and this can be discussed during sessions in more depth.
DO YOU OFFER TELEPHONE OR ONLINE THERAPY?
I offer online therapy sessions, but do not offer telephone appointments. Please indicate that you would prefer online sessions over in-person sessions when you make contact.
ARE THE SESSIONS CONFIDENTIAL?
Therapy sessions are confidential environments. I am bound by the ethical guidelines set out by the British Association for Counsellors and Psychotherapists (BACP). There are legal exceptions to this, which will be discussed with you during your Initial Assessment.
WILL YOU TRAVEL TO MEET CLIENTS IN-PERSON, ON JERSEY OR OTHER CHANNEL ISLANDS?
While I cater to clients in Gatwick, the Channel Islands, Surrey and Sussex, in-person sessions only take place in Surrey, U.K. I hope to hold in-person consultations in Jersey, in the future.
HOW LONG UNTIL I SEE RESULTS?
Therapy is not a linear process. It can often feel like you're becoming more confused, before the smoke eventually starts to clear. There is no timeline for results, nor can I guarantee to achieve the change you desire. Some people can find just a couple of sessions useful, while others benefit from months or years of support. If you don't think therapy is working for you, it is important to discuss this during your session.
HOW LONG SHOULD I BE IN THERAPY FOR?
How long you decide to stay in therapy, is entirely up to you. There is no 'right' length of time, rather it will depend on the issues you bring and the pace that feels right for you. Long term clients can continue to engage for a number of years. I tend to work in blocks of ten sessions and reassess progress after the completion of this ten-week block.
DO YOU OFFER CONCESSION RATES FOR STUDENTS?
If you are training to become a counsellor or psychotherapist, I can offer reduced rates. I understand that training is expensive and you are required to be in therapy as part of your course. I will ask to see proof you are in training, using a student ID card or otherwise. Please get in touch to discuss student rates further.
ARE THERE CANCELLATION FEES?
If you cancel your appointment with over 48hrs notice, you will not incur a fee. If you cancel within 48hrs of your session, you will be charged for the missed appointment. You will also be charged full fee if you do not attend the appointment having made no contact.
WHAT DO I DO WHEN YOU GO ON HOLIDAY?
I will always endeavour to give you at least two weeks notice before any break I take. I will often give much more than this. Breaks can be difficult, but they are also important both in therapy and as part of proper self-care. We can talk about upcoming breaks and how to handle them, during our sessions.
HOW CAN I FIND OUT DETAILS ABOUT YOUR GOVERNING BODY?
I am a registered member of the British Association of Counsellors and Psychotherapists (BACP). Visit their website to read more about the profession, for example ethical guidelines and complaints procedures.
WHY ARE ON-GOING SESSIONS 50 MINUTES?
It's mostly accepted than the 50 minute 'therapeutic hour' is a pragmatic choice. It allows a thorough amount of time for the client, with 10 minutes between clients for the therapist to write-up notes.