Why do people seek counselling / psychotherapy ?

People often seek counselling to get support through a difficult period or transition in their life such as: bereavement, illness, relationship break-up or family problems, starting a new job or having moved to a new area or country.Some people might have identified specific problems in their life such as: anxiety, stress, depression, eating disorders, relationships or work related problems.

At times it might be less specific, such as a sense of being generally unhappy or stuck, not knowing why.

What is the difference between counselling and psychotherapy?

Counselling can be helpful in a period of transition, focusing on a specific issue or problem. It can also provide you with the time and space to explore underlying thoughts and emotions.

Counselling and Psychotherapy tend to overlap in practice, but in general the term Psychotherapy is used for when people want to focus on changes to the way they think, feel and behave. People may use Psychotherapy to help overcome addictions and self-destructive patterns of behaviour and it can be used to gain a deeper understanding of ourselves, how we relate to others and how we can change these unwanted patterns.

How many sessions will I need?

Sessions are usually once a week. Depending on the issue, short-term counselling may be appropriate or longer term psychotherapy may be more beneficial. This can be discussed in the initial assessment session.

What happens in counselling/psychotherapy?

A session lasts for 50 minutes and is held in a private face-to-face setting.

The first session is often called a consultation or assessment. This is an opportunity for you to get a sense of what counselling is like and to see if I am the right therapist for you.

I will not give specific advice, but am there to listen, give support and help you identify changes you might want to make in your life

An initial meeting will offer you the opportunity to talk through what you need before you go on to decide if counselling/psychotherapy with me is for you.

Do I get ‘homework’?

Some people find it useful to focus on certain tasks in and between sessions. Other people find it beneficial to use the counselling/psychotherapy as a space to explore their life-situation, thoughts and emotions.

This is something we can discuss to find out what might work best for you.

Do I talk about my past ?

In counselling/psychotherapy, people will often focus on their present-day life and changes they want to make in the future.

But what has happened in our past can affect our present situation. We can explore what aspects of your past are affecting you in the here and now

Is counselling confidential ?

Yes Counselling is confidential. My notes are kept in a locked cabinet. I talk about my work to a qualified supervisor without identifying the individual I’m talking about. I do this in order to support my self and ensure that the client is gaining the best understanding and practice.

How much does it cost ?

£75  per session, (50 minutes).

I charge for the initial assessment session and for any absences.

How can I get in touch?

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 020 7281 4477

Are you a member of a professional body with a code of ethics?

Yes, I am a member of several professional bodies each with their codes of ethics to which I adhere.

Please follow the links below:

UKCP    –    UK Council for Psychotherapy

Metanoia Institute 

EATA –  European Association for Transactional Analysis

ITAA – International Transactional Analysis Association