What can I bring to therapy?

Anything that feels heavy, confusing, painful or important. I work with people who have come with anxiety, trauma, neurodivergence, life transitions, relationship challenges, grief, identity questions and those who simply have a desire for more clarity and self-understanding. 
 

What type of counselling do you do?

I’m an integrative psychotherapeutic counsellor with a core training in Transactional Analysis (TA, see below for more info) and a trauma-informed approach. I tailor the work we do together combining helpful theory and reflective exploration. My practice is inclusive and I am continuously adding to my knowledge to ensure it remains an inclusive space. 

What is Transactional Analysis(TA) and how does it help?

TA is a psychological model that helps us understand communication, relationship dynamics, the beliefs we have and internal patterns that shape how we see ourselves and others. I found TA a really helpful tool in building my own self awareness therefore I aim to integrate it gently and accessibly. It isn’t a jargon-heavy theory but it offers hugely impactful insights and tools. See my About Transactional Analysis page for more information (coming soon).

What happens in the first session?

Our first session is a gentle collaborative conversation, we’ll explore what has bought you to therapy, what you’re hoping for and what feels difficult right now. This session is about getting to know each other and seeing if it feels like a good fit to work together. 

How long are the sessions and how often do we meet? 

Sessions are 50 minutes for individual therapy, 60-90 minutes for couples or relationship therapy. Sessions are usually weekly and on the same day at the same time however some clients move to fortnightly or less often after working together for a while, this depends on your needs. I am also open to a more flexible schedule for shift workers. As we continue to work together we will review and set a rhythm that works. 

What are your qualifications and experience?

I am a fully-qualified, National Councelling & Psychotherapy Society (NCPS) accredited counsellor with a BSc in Social Psychology. My work is also grounded in my years of experience supporting neurodivergent individuals, being a neurodivergent individual myself and working with organisations as a trainer and facilitator around areas such as organisational wellbeing, inclusive leadership and practices and trauma awareness. 

What are the session fees?

Individual sessions last 50 minutes, taking place on a weekly basis, usually at the same time/day, and cost £65 per session. I am committed to offering a flexible approach and understand shift patterns can be a barrier to accessing support so please enquire about personalised session scheduling. Counselling for couples and those in relationships last 60 or 90 minutes, taking place weekly or fortnightly. The session costs are £80 for 60 minutes and £100 for £90 minutes.

What is the cancellation policy? 

I operate at 48-hour cancellation policy. Sessions cancelled with less than 48 hours notice are charged in full as your time is reserved specifically for you. As it is in life I know that unforeseeable circumstances can arise such as emergencies and sickness therefore I will try to find an alternative session time but this won't always be possible. 

How many sessions will I need? 

It varies, some people seek short-term work (6-12 sessions), others prefer long-term therapy. It depends on what brings you to therapy. We will have regular check in conversations to make sure therapy continues to meet your goals. 

Do you offer online or in-person sessions?

Yes, I offer both. In-person sessions take place in my dedicated therapy room in a quiet, comfortable environment. Online sessions are via secure video call via Zoom or Teams. 

Is everything confidential?

There are some legal and ethical exceptions to confidentiality to keep you and others safe which are based on the NCPS and UKCP ethical frameworks that I work to. I explain confidentiality fully in our first session so you always know where you stand. Confidentiality may be breached if I consider  you may harm yourself or others. In such exceptional circumstances, where there is concern for your wellbeing or that of others, it may be necessary to seek help outside the therapeutic relationship. In such an event where I am considering breaching confidentiality, I will endeavour to consult you first. In the case of a disclosure concerning acts of terrorism, vulnerable adult or child protection issues or drug trafficking, confidentiality will be breached and such disclosures will be passed onto the relevant authority without delay. 

How do you comply with data protection policies? 

Your privacy is important to me. I comply with UK data protection law (the Data Protection Act 2018 and UK GDPR) in how I collect, store and manage personal information. I only hold what is necessary for safe and effective therapy, and I handle your data lawfully, securely and with care. I am registered with the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) and meet my responsibilities as a data controller. Your information is kept confidential, stored securely, and only shared where legally required or with your consent. Records are retained in line with professional guidelines and securely disposed of when no longer needed.

If you have any questions about how your data is used or stored, I’m always happy to talk this through with you.

When will I feel better? 

It’s completely natural to want relief quickly, especially if things feel heavy right now. Therapy is a process and that process isn’t always linear. Sometimes we start to feel worse before we feel better, simply because we are opening up parts of our story, patterns or emotions that we may have been carrying for a long time. This doesnt mean therapy isnt working. In fact, it's often a sign that you’re beginning to connect with what needs attention. Everyone’s pace is different. Some people notice shifts within a few sessions, for others change unfolds gradually overtime. What matters most is that we move at your pace. 

Most importantly you won’t be doing this alone. I’ll be (metaphorically) walking alongside you- steady, supportive and with you as you navigate both the difficult parts and the moments of growth and clarity. 

How do payments work?

Sessions are paid for by bank transfer ahead of the session. We can discuss the best arrangement for you. 

What if I am neurodivergent or think I might be?

I welcome you to my practice. I am neurodivergent myself and have experience supporting neurodivergent clients and bring a neuro-inclusive approach to my work, from the pace of the session to communication styles to understanding executive functioning challenges and sensory overwhelm. 

Is your practice inclusive? 

Absolutely. My practice is intentionally inclusive and welcoming to people from diverse backgrounds, identities and lived experiences. I work with an intersectional lens, recognising that many parts of who we are  such as culture, race, gender, sexuality, neurodivergence, class, and life experiences shape how we move through the world and how we experience therapy. I warmly welcome LGBTQ+ clients, neurodivergent clients, and clients from global majority and culturally diverse backgrounds. My aim is to offer a space where you feel seen, respected, and understood, a space where every aspect of your identity is valued and can be explored safely.

Do you work with emergency service personnel?

Yes, I have specific experience supporting firefighters and police and others navigating trauma, critical incidents and workplace stress. My approach is grounded, practical and trauma informed.