What to expect when you are thinking about therapy
Most people refer themselves but I am very happy to accept referrals from GPs and other healthcare professionals.
The first appointment is primarily an information-gathering session. I will ask you about what has brought you to see me, how you make sense of it, and what you might wish to change. We will talk about how therapy could be able to help, and whether it feels like the right time for you to be embarking on this process. This first meeting is also an opportunity for you to begin to get to know me and to get a sense of what it might be like to be in therapy. There is no obligation to commit to any further sessions at this stage.
Therapy works best when there is a commitment to attending regular sessions. If you decide you would like to go ahead with treatment, we will talk about how often it makes sense to meet. We will review regularly to check that you are finding therapy helpful.
What will happen during our initial appointment?
If, at the end of the assessment session, we both feel there is a good fit, we can arrange on-going therapy sessions. If I feel I am not the right person to help you, perhaps because an alternative therapeutic approach is likely to be more helpful, I will tell you this. I will then direct you to a therapist or organisation I believe will be able to help you.
How long does each therapy session take? How many sessions will I need?
Each therapy session will be for 50 minutes, and is usually most effective on a weekly basis in the first instance. However, there is flexibility around this, depending on your needs.
With many difficulties, for example depression and most anxiety disorders 6-20 sessions are likely to get you feeling and functioning much better. For lifelong difficulties in relationships, very severe difficulties, and problems based in a traumatic or abusive childhood, therapy can take considerably longer.
Are the sessions confidential?
Yes. All your information is treated in confidence, and is stored in accordance with the Data Protection Act 1998. I will only share information about your treatment with other healthcare professionals who are involved in supporting you (such as your GP for example), and information is always shared with your prior consent.
What are the Terms & Conditions?
It is very important that you are fully informed about and comfortable with the practical framework for therapy, and a list of terms and conditions is available here. I will go through this with you at the initial appointment to answer any questions you may have, and to make sure you understand it and agree to its terms.
