FAQs
What sort of issues can therapy help with?
Therapy can provide an opportunity to explore all kinds of things: anxiety, low mood, relationship difficulties, grief, life transitions, trauma. Or if you simply have a feeling that something isn't quite right, even if you can't name it yet. You don't need to arrive with a diagnosis or a crisis. If something is weighing on you, that's enough.
What happens in the first session?
The first session is really a chance for us to get to know each other. I'll ask about what's brought you to therapy, a little about your background, and what you're hoping for. There's no pressure to share everything at once – we go at your pace. You can also ask questions you might have and get a feel for whether working together feels right.
How long are therapy sessions?
Sessions are 50 minutes. This gives us enough time to explore something fully, while leaving you space to settle back into your day afterwards.
How many sessions will I need?
That really depends on you – what you're carrying, what you're hoping for, and how the work unfolds. Some people find that a shorter block of sessions (6-12) gives them what they need. Others find that longer-term therapy allows them to explore things more deeply. We'll review things together as we go, so there's no pressure to commit to a fixed number upfront.
Is therapy confidential?
Yes. What you share in sessions stays between us. The only exceptions are if I have serious concerns about your safety or the safety of someone else – and I'd talk with you about that first, wherever possible. This is something we’ll discuss fully in our first session.
What is the difference between counselling and psychotherapy?
In the UK, the two terms overlap quite a bit. Generally, counselling tends to focus on a particular issue or a defined period of difficulty – it's a supportive, collaborative space to help you find your way through something. Psychotherapy often goes a little deeper, exploring patterns, beliefs and the roots of how you experience the world. In practice the most important thing isn't the label, it's whether the approach feels right for you. We can talk through what might suit you best.
Will you give me advice?
I won't tell you what to do – and that's intentional. What I will do is listen carefully, ask questions that help you think differently and support you to find your own way. Sometimes just having space to talk honestly can help things become clearer than you expected.
Do I need a diagnosis to start therapy?
Not at all. You don't need a referral or a diagnosis. Nor do you have to be in crisis to come to therapy. If something is affecting your life or your sense of wellbeing, that matters – and you're welcome here.
How does online counselling work?
Online sessions take place via a secure video platform – all you need is a private space and a stable internet connection. Many people find online therapy just as meaningful as in-person sessions, and it can make things more accessible if getting to a physical location feels difficult. We can talk through what feels right for you.
I find it difficult to talk about things. Will that be a problem?
Not at all. Many people feel that way, especially at the start. There's no expectation that you'll arrive ready to open up about everything – we build that slowly, together. Silence is welcome too. We go at whatever pace feels manageable for you.
What if it isn't working?
Therapy isn't a guaranteed ‘fix’ – and I'd never promise that. What matters most is that we talk openly about how it's going for you, and if something isn't landing or you're not sure it's helping, you to feel comfortable telling me. Then we can work through it, adjust our approach or even end the work if it doesn't feel right.