How can I arrange an initial consultation?

You can arrange a free 15 minute telephone consultation with me either by email or telephone, we can then find a time suitable for you.

What will the first appointment be like?

The first session will be an assessment session where I seek to gain a deeper understanding of your current difficulties and your hopes for therapy. At the end of our first session, I will make some recommendations and we will think about a way forward. The first session may look slightly different depending on whether you are seeking therapy for yourself, your child or your family. Please note that attending an initial assessment does not commit you to ongoing therapy sessions.

Can I pay for appointments through private Health Insurance cover?

I am registered with a number of private health insurers.  Please contact your health insurance company to check that they cover what you are requesting.  You are welcome to contact me if you have any queries.

How many sessions will I / we need?

This is a good question and it can be hard to know exactly how many sessions will be needed before you see significant improvements. Some people may feel they have received enough help after just four to six sessions, whilst many difficulties will need at least 12 sessions, to see improvements.  We will discuss this at your assessment session and will regularly review progress during therapy.

Are sessions confidential?

Sessions are confidential and I will not routinely inform your GP about our therapy sessions. However, for ethical and professional reasons I do ask for your GP details as part of the registration process. The only instances where I would extend the limits of confidentiality are if I became seriously concerned about harm coming to you or others around you, if you were involved in serious crime, or if your records were requested by a court. In these cases I would endeavour to first discuss this with you.

I also receive regular supervision to ensure a high standard of professional practise. Clients are presented anonymously and supervisors are bound by the codes of confidentiality and ethical practice of their professional organisations.

I fully comply with the Data Protection Act 1998.

Are you a crisis service?

I do not operate a crisis service, and therefore cannot guarantee my availability outside your session times. If you are in need of urgent support you can visit your GP, local Accident and Emergency Departments, telephone  111 or use the following support services:  Samaritans (0845 7909090) Shout (85258), Papyrus (0800 068 41 41).

Are you able to provide me with reports?

Yes. Reports for GPs, schools, or other Health and social care providers will incur additional fees. I will discuss the fees with you prior to the report being written and this will be determined by the amount of time it will take to prepare the report.