Frequently Asked Questions
How do I arrange to see you?Ring me on 0113 2783124. My answerphone is on while I am with clients, so if you get my answerphone, leave me a message and I will get back to you as soon as I can.
What happens in the first session?This is an opportunity for you to come and meet me, see where I work, and ask any questions that you wish, for example, about my approach or qualifications, or about the therapeutic process. Then we will discuss the issues that are bringing you to counselling or psychotherapy.
Then you can make another appointment if you wish, or you will be very welcome to go away and think about it, and ring me should you so choose.
Whats the difference between psychotherapy and counselling?These terms are often used interchangeably, but counselling is often concerned with the here-and-now, whereas in psychotherapy an individual may be helped to explore the past, and make links between that and present day behaviour or feelings. To be registered as a psychotherapist requires a much longer, more in depth training than to become a counsellor, as well as a lot more clinical experience and several years in personal therapy.
What are your fees?Individuals £35 - £40, depending on income
Couples £40.
Do I have to have the same time each week?No, I use a flexible system, as I find this suits people more. Some clients, for economic or other reasons, wish to come fortnightly or even monthly. At the end of each session we will agree on the time and date of the next session. If people need a certain time and date on a regular basis, I am happy to book this as far ahead as you choose, although you may change this in the future if you need to. This may be necessary particularly if you want a regular evening appointment, as I can get very booked up for evening appointments. i work as a counsellor and therapist full time Monday to Friday, and generally see people in the evening Monday to Thursdays.
After they have worked on their difficulties, some clients choose to return for occasional sessions to touch base, and I am more than happy to accomodate this.
How long is a session?Each session is one hour.
How many times will I need to come?Managing difficulties and resolving certain problems can often be achieved in a short number of sessions, brief work is generally taken to mean between 6 and 20 sessions. Longer term work may be needed to work through some difficulties, or to do personal development work. Therapy has been compared to peeling an onion, and it will be up to you how many layers you want to peel off!
