Therapy FAQS
How do I get started with therapy?
1
The first stage in this process is making contact, via the online contact form, email or phone. It is important you briefly state what you would like help with, or what you want to work on. We can then arrange a free 15-20 minute phone consultation where you can tell me a little about yourself and why you are seeking therapy. You can ask me any questions about the therapy process and I can discuss what therapy with me would look like. This is the opportunity for you to decide if I am the best therapist for you.
What’s the difference between counselling and psychotherapy?
2
This can seem confusing , however, counselling generally tends to be short- term and focuses on the here- and -now and any specific life events and difficulties you are facing presently. Psychotherapy is more long- term and will look at your past and consider root causes of psychological distress or behavioural patterns you would like to work on. I will usually use a combination of both, depending on what you are looking to achieve and what you are comfortable with exploring. The process will usually be reviewed so you can decide if you are achieving what you set out to do.
How often will I need therapy? How long does the process last?
3
Therapy normally takes place once a week, on the same day at the same time so as to establish a familiar routine. It is particularly important for the first 2-3 sessions, to attend weekly so as to establish a sound therapeutic relationship which is needed for successful outcomes. However, weekly sessions might not always be possible, in which case bi-monthly sessions, every two weeks can work too. It is important to maintain consistent therapeutic contact.
Each session normally lasts 50-60 minutes, but sometimes a client may need longer and that can be arranged.
The process will last as long as you need it; it is your choice. There will come a time when you don’t feel as though you need to attend and after dicussion with you I will reduce the frequency of sessions until you feel ready to end therapy. You may feel as though you have achieved what you set out to do and feel more resilient and equipped to manage any challenges you may face in future.
How do I choose the right therapist? How will I know they are right for me?
4
When you speak with a therapist, it is important to get on well with them and feel as though you connect, are heard and understood. This is because research has shown positive outcomes in therapy depend on a good therapeutic relationship between client and therapist.