Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Psychotherapy and Counselling?
The difference between counselling and psychotherapy is often blurred and they can and do overlap. Counselling can be relatively short term and can be goal orientated and focussed on the solution of a particular problem or behaviour. Generally speaking psychotherapy works towards deeper levels of change and is therefore more likely to focus on the past and be a longer term commitment. Ultimately it will always be your decision on what depth you work based on your needs and expectations.
What are the benefits of Counselling and Psychotherapy?
Improved self awareness and the ability to make informed choices.
A more realistic sense of self worth and self esteem.
Increasing ability to develop satisfying and sustaining relationships.
Improved control and ability to manage difficult feelings.
Greater control and awareness over self defeating and destructive patterns of behaviour.
An enhanced sense of personal security, responsibility and empowerment.
The ability to express more of your creative potential.
The ability to find purpose and meaning in your life.
How do I get started?
You can contact me by email or phone via my Contact Me page to arrange an initial session or if you have any questions that you would like me to answer.
What happens next?
After you have contacted me we will make an appointment to meet. Our first meeting or initial consultation is a time for us to discuss your needs and expectations and to explore the potential for working together. At the end of the consultation I will let you know if I feel we could work together or if your needs would be more appropriately met by another therapist. You do not need to make an immediate decision to progress with the work or to make another appointment.
If a decision has been made to progress with the work then we will agree to work for a set number of sessions usually between 4 and 6 before review. This period will give us the time and space to explore the direction for the work and also for us to begin to build a relationship together. We will then agree a regular weekly appointment time. At the last of these sessions we will decide to either:
Continue working together in the short term for a set number of sessions.
Continue working together in an open ended arrangement with frequent reviews.
End the work with no further sessions.
Is counselling and psychotherapy confidential?
What is discussed in sessions is confidential. Exceptions to this exist in the following circumstances:
Supervision – I discuss my practice with a colleague who is experienced at supervising the work of other therapists. I do not disclose any personal details that would identify you.
In exceptional circumstances where I felt that either yourself or another person was in danger of harm. If a situation like this were to arise then wherever possible I would discuss this with you first.
How long do sessions last?
The initial session is for one hour further sessions are for 50 minutes duration and will start and finish on time.
Do you provide counselling online?
I prefer working face to face but I can do online sessions if it is appropriate.
How will the counselling end?
If the work is short term then we will have agreed on a set number of sessions at the outset and will be working towards that goal. If we are working on an open ended agreement then we will have frequent discussions on how the work is progressing. Either way you will be the one to choose what level of change you are aiming for.
How much does it cost?
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What if I need medication?
I do not prescribe medication, but if necessary and with your consent, I will liaise with your doctor.
Can I park?
I work in a quiet residential location where there is ample space to park.
"Seeds of faith are always within us; sometimes it takes a crisis to nourish and encourage their growth" - Susan L. Taylor
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