What are your qualifications?
I hold both a diploma and MSc in Humanistic Psychotherapy from Metanoia Institute in London. I am a registered member of the UKCP (UK Council for Psychotherapy) and the BACP (British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy) and as such I abide by their codes of ethics and professional practice. I am fully insured and work under regular supervision.
What is supervision?
I meet regularly with an experienced supervising psychotherapist to ensure I work ethically and to a high standard. I talk with my supervisor about my client work but my supervisor does not know your identity, only your first name, and is bound by the same code of ethics and confidentiality.
Do you work with LGBTQIA+ clients?
Yes, absolutely. Your sexual orientation or gender will never be a reason I cannot work with you. Whether you are coming to therapy to work on issues relating to gender/sexuality or not, your authentic self is welcome. As a member of the queer community myself, I use she/her pronouns.
What can I expect from the first session?
It is understandable to be apprehensive about the first session. The most important thing is for us to get to know each other and for me to start to understand what brings you to therapy and what you need, During our first meeting, I will take some details about your history and experiences but there is no expectation to go into detail or to disclose deep feelings at this early stage, until you are ready.
However, it is crucial that the therapist you choose is someone you feel comfortable with and 'gets you'. It has been proven that the quality of the therapeutic relationship is the most vital aspect for effective therapy. I offer a free 20 minute phone call so that you can see if I feel like the right therapist for you.
Is what I tell you confidential?
I will never discuss our work together with anyone else, with some exceptions:
- During my clinical supervision My supervisor does not know your identity and is bound by the same ethical code as am I.
- If I believe you are at risk of harming yourself I may contact your GP or next of kin. I will always try to discuss this with you beforehand, if possible.
- If I believe a child or a vulnerable adult is at risk.
- If you disclose information about proposed acts of terrorism, drug trafficking or money laundering I am legally obligated to inform the police.
- If I am presented with a court order that compels me to disclose information.
What do you charge?
My current fees are:
- 20 minute introductory telephone call - free
- 50 minute weekly therapy session - My fees are on a sliding scale from £100-£150, and I ask any potential client to pay what they can afford based on their own financial circumstances.
How often will we meet?
Sessions are weekly. Therapy works best with regular sessions and less frequent sessions can sometimes result in less progress than consecutive sessions. If finances are an issue, you will probably benefit more from 8 weekly sessions than 8 fortnightly sessions.
You will usually keep the same time and day each week, but I can make exceptions for certain circumstances, such as shift workers.
What if I can't make my session?
When we decide on a time and day to meet, I hold this space for you. In order for me to do this, I allow each client three cancellations every six months. This means I will not charge for those three sessions (as long as I have 48 hours notice). Outside of this, I will try to find an alternative time for you in the same week if you need to reschedule, but if this is not possible I ask that the full fee is paid for any sessions missed, this includes missed sessions for planned holidays, illness or childcare. If I am unwell or on leave there is no charge.
Therapists often charge a cancellation fee in the same way that dentists, hairdressers and vets do. It means that we can cover costs, including turning away other clients to reserve your space. The cancellation fee is not a punishment, but rather an indication of the commitment and continuity of therapy. Even when you are not here, I take time to reflect on our work, read or research and you are being held in mind.
How do I pay?
I ask that payment is made prior to the session, by bank transfer. Cash payments are possible if an online payment would put you at risk.