How it works

How do we get started?

If you are thinking of having psychotherapy or counselling, please contact me using the ‘Contact’ form on this website, or by email or telephone. I will respond promptly and in confidence.

Initial consultation

It is quite common to feel unsure or hesitant about seeking help from a psychotherapist or counsellor. The purpose of the initial consultation, which consists of two meetings, is for us to meet each other, discuss your needs and concerns, and to see whether therapy/counselling might be helpful to you. It also enables us to establish whether we feel we can work together.

Appointments and fees

All sessions, including the two initial consultation meetings, are 50 minutes in length and my fee is: 

  • £60 per session 

Sessions are scheduled at the same time each week. Regular sessions are an important element of our work together, as this consistency promotes a sense of security and continuity.

Throughout the course of our work together, the time allocated to you is your time. Consequently, the full session fee is payable for missed sessions. You will not be charged for sessions that I am unable to provide.

Payment for each initial consultation meeting is payable within seven days, with an invoice issued for your records there and then.

Thereafter, should we decide to work together, invoices will be issued monthly in arrears. Payment can be made by cash, cheque or BACS transfer.

Insurance

I am an approved provider with the following insurance companies:

  • Aviva

  • Vitality

Statement of Understanding and Privacy Policy

At the first session following the completion of the initial consultation, I will issue you with a ‘Statement of Understanding’ regarding our work together and a copy of my Privacy Policy.

Confidentiality

Confidentiality will be respected and maintained. I will not disclose information about you without your consent, except in the following circumstances:

  • Unless it is required by a court of law

  • There is a risk of serious harm to yourself or others

In order to ensure good practice, I may also discuss our work with my clinical supervisor. In doing so, I would only ever use a pseudonym in referring to you and I would not reveal any identifying details.

How long does it take?

There is no set time limit for psychodynamic psychotherapy and counselling. While, for some, the time required is relatively brief – perhaps several months – for others the time required is longer. However long we work together, when to end is carefully considered by us in conversation together.