FAQs

What’s the difference between counselling and therapy?

In the UK the terms ‘counselling’ and ‘therapy’ are often used to describe the same thing. However, the therapy usually involves more in depth working for longer periods of time. I am trained to offer both ways of working.

Will our sessions be private?

It is important to build a trusting counselling relationship and I will treat anything you say during our sessions as confidential. I will discuss our work with my supervisor (a requirement for all counsellors and therapists) but will not reveal any details that might identify you. I will also write brief notes on our sessions, to keep a record of the work. I will not share information about you without your consent unless there is a legal or ethical need for me to do this.

What happens if I submit a contact form?

If you are interested to work with me, I will arrange a time to talk to you by phone. (This would not be a session, so there would be no fee.) This would be an opportunity for us to get to a feel for each other, talk about expectations and agree if we’d like to arrange some sessions. It is also a good time for you to ask any questions you may have about starting therapy.

What happens in the first session?

In our first session we would talk in more detail about how I work, about what’s going on for you, and about how we could work together. We would also agree a focus for the work, so that we can aim for positive change. We would review this focus at regular intervals and adjust it as necessary. 

Where do sessions take place?

Sessions should always take place in a safe and secure space. I hold face-to-face sessions in Holloway, North London, and Dalston, East London. This can work well if you want to talk in a neutral space, away from your home and everyday life. I work in dedicated therapy rooms that are comfortable and without distractions. I hold online sessions for those who prefer to communicate by phone or video. This can work well if you have access to a quiet space where you can talk privately and without interruptions.

Can I bring someone to the sessions with me?

Therapy is all about a one-to-one relationship. It is usually only recommended that there be a third person in the room if they have a role supporting communication, such as an interpreter. However, if you have a child it is sometimes possible to have them in the room if they are under 1 year of age and not crawling or walking.

What is the time commitment?

Sessions are 50-minutes long, usually held once a week on the same day and at the same time. This is because regular therapy is often the most effective way to make a positive change. I offer time-limited therapy and open-ended therapy with regular reviews to make sure that we're both satisfied with how the work is going.

What happens if I’m late for a session?

Unless a session is cancelled, I will be available to you for the duration of the scheduled slot. If you are late for a session, we will begin working when you arrive. However, we will always need to stick to the scheduled session end time. If you think you might be late and are able to make contact in advance, this is appreciated.

What happens if I miss a session?

If either of us is unable to attend a session we will provide 48 hours’ notice if possible. If I have any planned absences, I will let you know at least 3 weeks in advance. Missed sessions will need to be paid for, with the exception of end-of-year break when the service closes and when I am on leave.

How does therapy end?

The process of ending therapy is an important opportunity to learn about ourselves. It can also remind us of other endings in our life. I therefore ask that we have at least 3 sessions to work through an ending process.

Is there any communication between sessions?

The work we do in therapy would take place during our scheduled sessions. There is usually no communication between these slots, apart from to make arrangements for payments, cancellations etc. I will respond to all email queries within 2 working days.  

How do payments work?

Payment for sessions can be made in advance, either in bulk or on a weekly basis. I accept payment by bank transfer or in cash. I will issue you with a monthly payment statement at the beginning of each month.

What if I have a complaint or suggestion?

If you are unhappy or dissatisfied with the service you receive please let me know at the earliest opportunity, and I will try to resolve any issues or concerns. If you have suggestions to how I could improve my service, please do let me know at any time.