FAQ's
- What happens in a first session
In our first session, we’ll explore what’s currently going on in your life and what has brought you to consider Therapy. You don’t need to prepare anything in advance, but it might be helpful to reflect on any goals or expectations you have for therapy and share these in your initial session.
This session is also a chance for you to get a feel for how I work and to see if you feel comfortable working with me. We can talk about how our sessions might look going forward.
- How do I know which Therapist is right for me
The most important part of choosing a therapist is finding someone you feel comfortable talking to. It’s completely normal for it to feel a bit strange at first — opening up to someone new can take time. What matters is that you feel you could be open with me, when you're ready, as that sense of trust will help you get the most out of therapy.
Therapy is always at your pace. You should never feel pressured to talk about something you're not ready to share.
Starting therapy isn’t a lifelong commitment. You don’t have to get it perfect right away — and if it doesn’t feel like the right fit, that’s okay. It’s completely fine (and encouraged!) to try a few different therapists. A big part of what makes therapy effective is the relationship, so it’s worth taking the time to find someone who feels right for you.
- How long are sessions
All one-to-one therapy sessions last 50 minutes. EMDR sessions are often longer, typically around 70 minutes to allow enough time for the process.
Couples therapy sessions usually run for 50 minutes, but can be extended to 90 minutes if you feel that would be more helpful.
- Can online therapy be as effective as face-to-face therapy, and what are the benefits?
Yes — research shows that online therapy can be just as effective as traditional face-to-face sessions.
Online therapy offers the same real-time interaction and visual cues as in-person work, which helps build a strong therapeutic relationship. It can be especially helpful for those dealing with anxiety, mobility issues, or even just having a difficult day — sometimes being in your own space can make it easier to open up and reduce the pressure that can come with in-person contact.
There are also practical benefits:
• Greater flexibility with scheduling
• Reduced travel time and costs
• Shorter wait times for appointments
These factors can make it easier for many people to attend regularly and get the support they need.
- What is the difference in modality of therapists?
While therapy in general focuses on helping individuals with emotional, psychological, and behavioural challenges, there are different modalities or approaches that therapists may use, each with its own focus and style.
Many Counsellors often work with clients on specific issues, offering guidance, support, and practical strategies to address immediate concerns. This work tends to be shorter-term and goal-oriented.
Psychotherapists, on the other hand, usually have more in-depth training and use a wider range of therapeutic techniques. Psychotherapy often explores deeper patterns, past experiences, and long-standing emotional issues. It tends to be longer-term and is aimed at fostering personal growth, self-awareness, and lasting change. That said, psychotherapy can also be tailored for short-term work when appropriate.
I work using an Integrative approach, which means I draw on different therapeutic theories and methods to suit each individual client. This might include elements from: Humanistic Therapy, focusing on personal growth and self-acceptance, Psychodynamic and Psychoanalytic Therapy, exploring early experiences and unconscious processes, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), addressing patterns in thinking and behaviour
This holistic approach allows us to work in a flexible, tailored way that best supports your needs and goals.
- How many sessions will I need?
This really depends on what you’re hoping to get out of therapy and any goals you’ve set for yourself. There’s no minimum or maximum number of sessions — it’s a flexible process that’s tailored to your needs.
I usually recommend we begin with three sessions to get a feel for how things are going. From there, we can review together and decide on the best path forward. Some people come to focus on a specific issue and find short-term work is enough, while others may prefer longer-term therapy to explore multiple concerns or deeper, more complex issues.
- Short-Term Therapy
If you’re working through a specific challenge, you might find six sessions helpful. Some clients continue for a bit longer, depending on the level of support they need in the short term. - Long-Term Therapy
If you’re looking to explore deeper or more longstanding patterns, open-ended weekly can offer the space and time needed for reflection, growth, and meaningful change.
We’ll regularly review how things are progressing to make sure the therapy continues to meet your needs.
- How often will we meet for Therapy?
Session frequency is something we’ll agree on together, based on your needs and what feels manageable for you.
I usually recommend weekly sessions, especially for the first six weeks. This consistency helps build momentum and allows us to establish trust and connection early on. After that, we’ll review your progress and decide whether to continue weekly, reduce the frequency, or begin working toward an ending.
While fortnightly (bi-weekly) sessions are possible, it can be more challenging to build a strong therapeutic relationship at the beginning with less frequent contact.
Weekly therapy offers a sense of "therapeutic holding" — a secure, consistent space that fosters emotional safety, trust, and openness. This supportive environment helps the brain and body feel safe enough to begin processing, healing, and growing.
- When Psychotherapy ends, can I come back in the future if I need to?
Yes, absolutely. You’re always welcome to return to therapy at any point in the future, whether you're facing a new challenge or need support with something ongoing.
Many people find it helpful to take breaks and come back when they feel the time is right. Therapy is here when you need it — there’s no door that closes.
- How do I book and pay for an appointment?
To book a session, simply get in touch with me to check availability and confirm a time.
Payment is required in advance by bank transfer to secure your appointment. Full payment details will be provided when we confirm your booking.
If you have any questions or need help with scheduling, feel free to reach out.
- Do you offer sliding scale Therapy or Concessions?
I believe mental health support should be accessible to everyone, regardless of financial circumstances. That’s why I strive to make therapy as affordable as possible.
If you’re interested in starting therapy but have concerns about the cost, please get in touch. We can discuss your situation and explore available options together.
A limited number of concessionary places are available for students, those facing financial hardship or on a low income.
- What are your available hours?
I offer therapy sessions Monday to Friday during daytime hours, with limited evening availability as well.
For specific session times or to make a booking enquiry, please contact me via email.
- What if I have more questions?
If you have any other questions, please visit the Contact page to get in touch. I’m happy to help!
Please allow up to 48 hours for an email response.
