FAQs (Online Therapy)
How many sessions do I need?
I do not set a number of sessions - I find that long-term therapy works best. However, I realise there are financial considerations and will discuss the right balance with potential clients. The other factor is the complexity and number of issues presented.
How long and how often are the sessions?
I work with clients for one hour once a week, ideally on the same day and time. Depending upon availability, fortnightly sessions are a possibility.
Is there a contract to sign?
No. However, if you would like one I can send you an electronic contract for us both to sign. Any personal data is held digitally and password protected, I follow GDPR regulations for holding and deleting personal data.
Do I have to pay for multiple sessions up front - am I tied into a financial contract?
No and no - basically it's pay as you go; there will be no specific number of sessions you'll be required to attend. All I ask is that you pay prior to your session, ideally on the same day.
What is your cancellation policy?
I request 24 hours' notice for cancellations. Cancellations made prior to this window are rescheduled with no penalty. Cancellations made without 24 hours’ notice but prior to the start of the session or no-shows or cancellations made after the start of the session incur a fee of £50.
Are the sessions confidential?
Yes, sessions are totally confidential - with the exception of certain specific disclosures as recommended by the BACP such as a perceived risk of harming yourself or someone else.
Do you have a code of practice?
Yes - I work within the guidelines, code of ethics and good practice of the BACP ethical framework. You can view the ethical framework here: BACP website.
Do you offer advice?
No - my role is to facilitate your personal growth and awareness by listening, reflecting and offering clarity and perspective. Any decisions you make must be yours, it would be a mistake and a breach of the BACP ethical framework to take your power and autonomy and make decisions on your behalf.
How will I benefit from therapy?
Counselling and psychotherapy aims to liberate you from the isolation and loneliness of living with inner turmoil by providing an outlet for you to express your deepest emotions to someone with the right set skills to help you. Therapy aims to provide you with the tools to cope with life's difficulties and lead to a positive change within.
The therapist is outside of your family and friends offering a safe, non-judgmental space enabling you to gain a new perspective on your life. Unlike confiding in friends and family, you will not need to concern yourself with how you are impacting the therapist - they are a professional and have the training and experience to hold a space for anything you may bring to therapy.
What does MBACP mean?
I am registered as a counsellor with the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy and am a Member of this professional body (MBACP). The BACP is a public record of counsellors and psychotherapists who have met the standards for professional registration accredited by the professional standards authority for health and social care.
Do you offer face-to-face therapy?
No - all my clients are online only, my whole practice and scheduling is built around online therapy, which allows me to work with clients worldwide.