FAQs

What is CBT?

CBT stands for cognitive (our thoughts), behaviour (how we do things) therapy. Put a different way, this talking therapy investigates how a person’s thoughts influence their behaviour. Frequently we get stuck doing things the same way we have always done them. Often, ‘the same way’ will suffice and it will work for us. There are occasions, however, when the way we have always done things doesn’t work any longer and we start to make things more difficult for ourselves rather than easier.

Clinical research shows that, in times of difficulty, CBT can help clients reach a new understanding of their problems and find an easier way of living and enjoying life.

What is EMDR?

There is growing evidence that suggests that this form of therapy is enabling clients to move on with their lives after having processed things that have proved difficult to move on from for many years. Issues are processed with a range of either eye movements or tapping, enabling the brain to manage troubling thoughts, enabling them to be remembered if you choose, but not constantly relived.

What can I expect in the first session?

In my work, I strive to understand the psychological pain and disharmony that clients are experiencing in their lives. I try to develop a therapist/client rapport, where the client is in the role of the expert of their own problems. I work with my theoretical knowledge to find the best approach towards tacking these problems. Together, we aim to formulate difficulties in order to help confront them.

In the first session, I will ask some questions designed to gain a fuller picture of your particular situation and experiences. We will both have the space to assess the suitability of working together. We may both decide that we need a little more time to assess this suitability, and we can organise a second session in which to do this. Alternatively, we may be able to agree on a more concrete timescale to work together.

You will not be under any obligation to continue with further sessions. The initial session is an opportunity for you to consider whether you feel comfortable and are able to work with me, whether my particular approach to therapy will suit you and your specific requirements.

If you wish to proceed, we will find a mutually beneficial day and time when we can meet from that point onwards.

How many sessions will I need?

Interventions can range from a few weeks to a few months. The length of therapy very much depends on the kind of issues you want to work on. We will discuss this during our first consultation.

How long do sessions last?

Sessions normally last for one hour.

How much will it cost?

My fees are £80 for a consultation lasting one hour.

How much notice do you need for a cancellation?

I would require 24 hours'+ notice to cancel a scheduled session. The consultation fee will be charged if notice is not provided.

Companies I am registered to work with

Shirley helped me put my thinking in order after a sudden and severe bout of stress at work. Her way of directing my in-session note-taking gave me a lot to think about during the space between our meetings: this was a real opportunity for me to learn from the discussions we had. Shirley is a fantastic listener, but she was also ready to challenge and move my thinking along, helping me find in myself the mental resources for the future for when things feel difficult, and to come to some really brave decisions. NS - Oxford