Question 1

How long is a session and how much does it cost?

Accepted Answer

Sessions are 50minutes and cost £110.
There are some situations where a longer therapy session of up to 90minutes may be recommended. This would be discussed and agreed in advance including fee.

Question 2

What can I expect at the first session?

Accepted Answer

Before our first session, I will send you a form with some questions. These questions will guide what we talk about in our first session. You can choose to complete and return the form ahead of the session or simply have a look at the questions.

You can always choose how much or how little you want to share. Therapy will go at a pace that works for you.

The form will include questions about:
·       The problems or difficulties that brought you to therapy
·       Your day-to-day life and lifestyle
·       Who and what matters to you
·       Your hopes or goals for therapy

Question 3

What kinds of mental health conditions and psychological difficulties can you help with?

Accepted Answer

Psychological distress can exist in many forms. Sometimes it shows up in recognisable patterns that we can name. Other times, it’s a more general sense of feeling stuck in a pattern that is problematic and that you want to change.

Some of the common recognisable patterns of distress that I can help with are:
·       Generalised Anxiety Disorder (GAD) or worry
·       Phobias
·       Panic Disorder
·       Social Anxiety
·       Post Traumatic Stress Disorder
·       Obsessive Compulsive Disorder
·       Persistent Physical Symptoms
·       Insomnia
·       Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder

Question 4

How many sessions do I need?

Accepted Answer

This can vary and is difficult to predict as each person’s experience is unique.

Some people find clarity, understanding and direction from 1 or 2 sessions alone.

For those who want to continue in therapy whilst working towards change, newer difficulties can generally be resolved in fewer sessions (approx. 6-12). Longstanding challenges can take longer to understand and overcome (12-20+).

The goals you set for therapy, and what you can do in between sessions will also influence how many are required.

During initial sessions we will discuss your individual goals. We can consider these in line with any time or financial constraints. I am committed to working efficiently with you towards what matters to you. I am available for short and long-term work.

Question 5

What is the difference between a psychologist and a counsellor?

Accepted Answer

Registered Psychologists providing therapy in the UK will have undergone doctoral level training on the factors that contribute to psychological distress. They will usually be trained in a range of therapeutic models and evidence-based treatment approaches. They will have a strong foundation of knowledge about human behaviour and the mind. This extensive learning allows them to take an individualised approach to understanding your experience, and to plan a treatment approach with you.

Practicing psychologists are regulated by the HCPC (Health Care Professions Council) and must maintain their registration by adhering to standards of practice.

Counsellors are trained in skilled listening. The length and nature of training can vary widely. Some counsellors train for several years while others have much shorter trainings.

The terms “counsellor”, “therapist”, “psychotherapist” and even “psychologist” are not protected titles, which means legally anyone can use them. It is advisable to check qualifications and registration with professional bodies when selecting a therapist.

The following titles are protected, which means anyone using them must be registered with the HCPC and meet their standards:
·       Practitioner psychologist
·       Registered psychologist
·       Clinical psychologist
·       Counselling psychologist

Question 6

Can you prescribe medication?

Accepted Answer

No, psychologists do not prescribe medication. If you would like to consider the role of medication in relation to your mental health, we can discuss this. Only a GP, psychiatrist, or independent prescriber can make a recommendation or offer a prescription.

Question 7

Can you diagnose autism/ADHD/neurodivergence?

Accepted Answer

No, professional guidelines recommend that neurodevelopmental assessments should be team-based and draw on a range of professions and skills. As an independent practitioner this is not a service I currently offer.

I do have training and experience in diagnosing and working to support those with neurodevelopmental conditions.

If you have received a neurodivergent diagnosis from another professional and are looking for a space to make sense of this, I am happy to work in this way.

If you suspect you may be neurodivergent; although I will not make a formal assessment or diagnosis in relation to this, we can hold this important information in mind whilst working towards what matters to you.

Question 8

Can you write a letter to my doctor/employer/other professional?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Any requests for letters or completion of forms will be charged at an hourly rate of £110. This would be discussed and agreed in advance.

Question 9

Do you accept health insurance?

Accepted Answer

Yes, I now accept health insurance for clinical psychology services. I am a recognised provider with AXA Health, Vitality Health, AVIVA, and WPA. If you have cover with one of these insurers, your sessions may be fully or partially funded.

Question 10

How do I use my health insurance for sessions?

Accepted Answer

To use your health insurance, please contact your insurer first to check your cover for psychological therapy or clinical psychology. They may provide you with an authorisation code, which you will need before booking your appointment.

Question 11

Which insurance companies do you work with?

Accepted Answer

I am a recognised provider for:
AXA HealthAVIVABUPA
Vitality Health
WPAIf you have a policy with any of these providers, please get in touch to discuss how I can support you.

Frequently asked questions