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What is the difference between a psychologist and a counsellor?

Both counsellors and psychologists will be skilled in listening and communicating, and will address emotional issues, helping individuals to resolve them. However, a psychologist will have completed a Doctorate in psychology; psychologists’ receive in depth training and experience into the science of how people think, feel and behave. Psychologists offer a comprehensive assessment, and develop a shared formulation with the individuals they work with to guide them in their evidence-based practice.

What happens during the initial consultation?

In the 15 minute phone call, you will have a chance to speak briefly about why you are seeking support at this time. We will consider what you might want to get out of the sessions – your hopes and goals – and will discuss possible treatment options. There will also be a chance for you to ask any questions you may have.

During the call, we will get a sense of whether we can work together and, if we are happy to proceed, we will book in a regular therapy slot. There is no obligation to book a regular therapy slot after this call. If I do not feel I am the right fit for you, I may suggest alternative options

How long are the therapy sessions?

I offer a 15 minute phone consultation free of charge. All subsequent sessions are 50 minutes.

Occasionally, some sessions for specific models of therapy (such as EMDR) may need to be extended up to 90 minutes; this will be discussed directly with you if it is advised.

Before we commence our sessions, I will ask you to read my confidentiality and privacy statement, and read and complete my client registration and agreement form.

How often are the sessions?

Sessions are weekly, at a set time and day. Occasionally, alternative frequencies may be advised; these will be discussed and agreed upon directly with you.

Can I contact you outside of sessions?

Contact outside of agreed session times will be limited to arranging or cancelling appointments. I will endeavour to respond to you within 2 working days of contact made. I will make you aware of holidays or periods where I will be unavailable.

Please note that I am not available for immediate responses and cannot act as a crisis or emergency contact. If you require crisis support, I recommend you contact one of the following services.

• NHS 111
• Local crisis support numbers
• The Samaritans: 116 123 (24/7)
• Refuge (National Domestic Abuse Helpline): 0808 2000 247 (open 24/7, live chat service available Mon-Fri, 3pm-10pm)
• 999 (for emergencies)
• A&E (for emergencies)

It is your responsibility to use these emergency contacts in cases of crisis or imminent risk.

How many sessions will I need?

This is very much dependent on why you are seeking therapy and your hopes for the therapy. I offer both short and longer term options. For some, they may feel they benefit from short term (8-16 sessions) whilst others may need longer (16-30); for some, they may wish to attend sessions on an on-going basis. In the initial few assessment sessions, we can think about this together and decide upon the number of sessions you may need.

If your financial situation might restrict the number of sessions you can afford, please let me know at the start of the sessions so we can discuss what might be possible in the time period available.

Can you prescribe medication?

Prescribing medication is not part of my role as a psychologist. If medication is something you are interested in looking into, you are advised to approach your GP, a psychiatrist or an independent prescriber who can discuss options with you and make a recommendation. However, if you would like to consider the role of medication in relation to our mental health, this is something we can discuss in our sessions.

Do you accept insurance?

I am not currently accepting insurance. I do offer a sliding scale fee for those experiencing financial hardship. Please discuss this with me directly.

What do I need in order to access therapy online?

I currently only offer online therapy. This allows you to attend in the comfort of your own home, or another location that suits your schedule. However, it is important that:

• The space from which you attend is confidential; it is important that you will not be disturbed, and that you can use this space for the full 50 minutes
• You will need to have a phone or laptop that has a camera
• It is advisable to wear headphones in order to protect the confidentiality of the sessions
• If you are using your phone, it is important to remain hands free; please find a way to prop your phone up.
• It can be helpful to check your internet connection is strong enough to facilitate video sessions
• If you are using your phone, it is important to remain hands free; please find a way to prop your phone up.
• It can be helpful to check your internet connection is strong enough to facilitate video sessions

What if I don’t want to show my face?