What should I expect?

After making contact with me, I will invite you to make an appointment for an initial consultation. This is for 20 minutes and free of charge. We can meet on Zoom or talk on the phone.

At the initial consultation you can tell me briefly the nature of the problem that has brought you to therapy. You may also want to ask questions about the service I offer, sounding me out for whether you think I'd be the right person for you to talk to more deeply. I will also be listening carefully to you; aiming to establish whether I believe I would be a good 'fit' for you. Occasionally I will refer people to another practitioner - either because my practice is full, or because I may not believe I'm the right person to support you. It is important that we both feel comfortable to undertake this sensitive work together.

If we book an appointment we will agree whether we will work in person or via Zoom. I will send you my terms and conditions for you to read and sign. Payment is prior to a session.

Session times are fixed to a slot each week. The minimum contract is 6 sessions, with a review at that point to see how the work is evolving. Many clients choose to continue beyond this initial period and it is not unusual for therapy to continue for months or years, depending on the nature of the issues you are exploring.

What sorts of issues do you work with?

The reasons people seek psychotherapy & counselling are as varied as humans themselves. One person's depression is nothing like another's. However, here are some common themes in my work:

Depression

Anxiety

Relationship problems

Childhood trauma

Traumatic incidents

Bereavement

Low self esteem

Gender or sexuality exploration

Disordered eating

Work related stress

Long term illness

Improving motivation

Adjusting to a life shift (becoming a parent, aging, changing jobs/ locations)

What’s the difference between Counselling & Psychotherapy?

There are more similarities than differences. Counselling training is shorter and can be characterised as more focussed on short term problems/ behavioural change. However many counsellors work at depth too. Psychotherapists have several years additional training and often work with a view to connecting past patterns to present issues. I am qualified in both and can tailor my approach to you.

Therapists often quote the following “if you have a problem in your life, see a counsellor. If your problem is your life, look for a psychotherapist!”.

How long are sessions?

Sessions are for 50 minutes. Longer appointments may be available on request.

Where is your office?

I consult in a dedicated therapy room outside Wareham, Dorset. I also work online. Please reflect on your preference and availability so that we can find an appropriate time and place for sessions if we agree to work together.

How much does it cost?

My standard rate varies from £50 - £70 per session (reflecting means). However, I do occasionally offer a lower rate for those who need it, so please do ask if the standard rate bracket is unfeasible for you.

All potential clients receive a free 20 minute initial consultation before their first appointment. I encourage you to ‘shop around’ to find the practitioner who suits you best for this sensitive work.

Where are your testimonials?

I choose not to have them. Our relationship will be built on trust and there is unavoidable doubt about testimonial authenticity. I also don’t like to ask existing or past clients to give me this token of their appreciation - our relationship is a reward in itself.