Frequently Asked Questions
How to begin?The first stage is to get in touch with brief details of what you are looking for and, if it's comfortable, what is troubling you. If you email, I will write back and probably suggest an initial, confidential chat on the telephone. There is no charge for this initial conversation. It will be a short conversation, where we can discuss whether my practice is a good fit for your needs. In most cases, this call leads to a face to face meeting within a few days. I will offer you my professional opinion on the best service for your situation.
What to expect in the first session?
The first session provides you with a chance to gauge if my practice is right for you. This session is an opportunity to talk through your reasons for seeking therapy. We will also explore your requirements and any concerns about the therapeutic process. This session will last fifty minutes, by the end of it you will probably have a clear idea whether to proceed with therapy. If we do decide to work together, we then agree a mutually convenient time to meet each week. Normal fees apply.
~ Appointments are available during the day and early evening ~
How often should I attend?
The norm is to attended one appointment at the same time each week. Some people want to attend more frequently, this is possible. Meeting less frequently is not recommended, as this generally leads to less fruitful outcomes. Once therapy has finished it is possible to have planned 'check-in' or 'top-up' sessions.
How long will it take?
For a rough guide please look at the About Therapy page. It is only possible to arrive at a more accurate estimation after a first meeting, once the work you would like to do has been scoped. A minimum of six sessions is recommended.
When will therapy end?
You are under no obligation to continue with therapy. Ideally, when it ends is something we agree upon, as therapy is a joint endeavour. I can provide an initial estimate that we work towards but this is flexible, you may feel better quicker than expected or you may find you want to invest more time in exploring issues that are important to you.
Cancellations?
A cancellation period of one week applies. No fee will be charged for missed sessions when at least one week’s notice is given. When notice is shorter I will try to offer an alternative time in the same week so that payment for a non-attended session is avoided. If it is not possible to attend, the normal fees will be charged for a missed session.
Fees?
Sessions are weekly and last fifty minutes. Fees are:
Daytime (08.00 - 17.00) - £40.00
Evening (17.00 - 20.00) - £45.00
Concessionary rates for psychotherapy students. I review my fees annually at the start of the year.
If you need low fee therapy do look up your local Mind, college and GP counselling services, as trainee counsellors often work in these organisations and offer their services for minimal fees.
Will my health insurance cover the costs?
I am a recognised provider of psychological and counselling therapy for the Norwich Union.
Are you qualified?
I am a professionally qualified therapist trained to work with adults.
During my five year training program at Regent's College (London), I worked in charitable institutions and a hospital where I gained extensive clinical experience with a wide variety of people. I also gained an MA in Psychotherapy and Counselling, as well as a (post-MA) Advanced Diploma in Integrative Psychotherapy. Since then, I have worked in private practice and abide by best practice standards, my work is supervised and insured. Please note, I am qualified to work with adult individuals but not with couples or children.
I am a member of the BACP and currently in the registration process to join the UKCP.
How do I choose a therapist?
It is crucial to work with a therapist you are comfortable with and who seems trustworthy and professional to you. It is worth visiting, or at least having telephone conversations with, a few therapists before deciding which one to hire. You can find a list of qualified and conveniently located psychotherapists and counsellors via the BACP and UKCP websites.
Disabled access to consultation room?
Unfortunately, people with mobility disabilities will find my consulting room difficult to access. If this is the case for you, it may be possible for us to meet at an alternative location.
Do you have a waiting room?
No, there is no waiting room. If you arrive early there are two cafes in Watlington where it is possible to wait until the time of your appointment.
Still have unanswered question about therapy?
I welcome enquiries, do drop me a line. I will do my best to write back to you by the next day.
