How regular are the sessions?
Normally weekly for individuals and couples. The sessions are held at the same time each week. Some clients prefer to come twice a week at certain times during the process and we negotiate that when we review the contract on a termly basis.
How many sessions will I need?
There is no definite answer to this question. We always start off with 4 weeks of initial sessions, after which we define a contract covering how many weeks we will work together before the next review, the fees and other aspects of how we will work together.
The total number of sessions will depend on the initial assessment and what you want to achieve. Some clients are very clear about what they want to work on and have a goal they want to work towards, which we would capture in our contract. Others need to explore who they are and who they have been, which means the end goal cannot be defined at the start of our work together, and therefore we would set an open-ended contract.
Together we will undertake regular reviews to ascertain progress.
The total number of sessions will depend on the initial assessment and what you want to achieve. Some clients are very clear about what they want to work on and have a goal they want to work towards, which we would capture in our contract. Others need to explore who they are and who they have been, which means the end goal cannot be defined at the start of our work together, and therefore we would set an open-ended contract.
Together we will undertake regular reviews to ascertain progress.
How long are the sessions?
Each session is 50 minutes for individuals. Couples can choose from a standard session of 50 minutes or a 'session and half' lasting 75 minutes.
I offer both daytime and evening appointments.
I offer both daytime and evening appointments.
How quickly can I start therapy?
I can usually arrange an exploratory assessment session within a few days or at most 2 weeks. After that assessment, you may need to join a waiting list, but if you can be flexible about when we meet then that is likely to reduce the time it takes me to arrange sessions for you.
Are our sessions confidential?
Yes, sessions are always confidential with only a very few exceptions that relate to extreme circumstances, including safeguarding of other people and public safety. Confidentiality and trust are essential elements of our work together.
Where is your practice and how do I get there?
Most of my face-to-face sessions are held at my own practice in the Kingston area. This is within walking distance of Norbiton station on National Rail line from London Waterloo or Richmond, and close to a number of regular bus services. If you prefer to drive, there is free parking available in surrounding roads.
Can I park nearby?
Yes, at my premises and nearby.
Is there wheelchair access?
No, sorry. However, I can offer sessions online, or at your home or elsewhere if you or your carer(s) can’t access my premises. Please contact me to discuss how I can help.
What days/hours do you work?
Monday to Thursday 8am to 9pm. I do not see clients during August or over Christmas or Easter.
When we meet for your initial assessment session, we’ll discuss availability and arrange a time which is convenient for both of us.
If you wish to wish to pause your sessions, we can discuss this. A 2-week notice period is required.
When we meet for your initial assessment session, we’ll discuss availability and arrange a time which is convenient for both of us.
If you wish to wish to pause your sessions, we can discuss this. A 2-week notice period is required.
How much does it cost and how do I pay?
Fees/rates: For counselling and psychotherapy, we usually discuss fees at the initial assessment session, as they are dependent on the type of work we are going to do together.
For supervision and tutoring, rates depend on whether it is a contract for an academic year or individual sessions.
Payment: Payment in advance is required to book and confirm every session. Most clients confirm the dates/times of next month's sessions and pay for that month in advance, however weekly payments can be accepted if previously agreed. Payment is by bank transfer.
Cancellation: 48 hours’ notice of cancellation is required or the full fee will be due.
For supervision and tutoring, rates depend on whether it is a contract for an academic year or individual sessions.
Payment: Payment in advance is required to book and confirm every session. Most clients confirm the dates/times of next month's sessions and pay for that month in advance, however weekly payments can be accepted if previously agreed. Payment is by bank transfer.
Cancellation: 48 hours’ notice of cancellation is required or the full fee will be due.
Who do you work with?
I work with most adults and young people aged 16 and over. All my sessions are in English.
I will ask you a few questions when you first contact me to help us decide whether my support is the right support for you.
If you're seeking support for someone under 16, one option is to contact the charity Young Minds. Among its services are a helpline for parents and carers, and a text service for young people.
I will ask you a few questions when you first contact me to help us decide whether my support is the right support for you.
If you're seeking support for someone under 16, one option is to contact the charity Young Minds. Among its services are a helpline for parents and carers, and a text service for young people.
Where can I get additional support between sessions?
Sometimes events happen in between sessions, If you feel that you need to speak to me, please text me and we can arrange a short phone call.
Other support available to you includes the following:
Other support available to you includes the following:
- The Calm Zone: www.the calmzone.net
- The Samaritans: www.samaritans.org or call 116123
- Shout: text SHOUT to 85258 or contact giveusashout.org/
- Papyrus (for people under 35): phone Hopelink on 08000684141; text 07860039967; email [email protected]
How do I get in touch with you?
To book an initial appointment or ask me any more questions, please use the form on my Contact page and I'll reply as soon as I can - usually within two working days, or quicker if I can.
