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FAQs
Do you have a further question? You may find the answer in the list below. Alternatively, please don’t hesitate to contact me.
Initial session & beyond
I’m aware that embarking with therapy can be daunting, and I endeavour to put you at ease. Your first session will include an initial exploration and assessment of what brings you to counselling, your expectations and what you hope to gain. It is important that you feel comfortable with me, and that we are a good match for effective therapy to follow. We will also have regular reviews during the course of your therapy to discuss how the process is working for you. I can tailor and adapt my approach if necessary in a way that is suited to your needs and goals.
What is the difference between counselling and psychotherapy?
It is tricky to define a universal definition and in reality there is usually a cross over between counselling and psychotherapy. As a guide, it could be considered that a counsellor is likely to help with a current and specific problem, for example a bereavement or difficult life event, with a here and now focus. On the other hand, a psychotherapist may help with more deep-rooted difficulties that affect a client's life, with roots in the past. It is usually longer-term therapy. A psychotherapist would often have a higher level of training. This is only a guide, counselling & psychotherapy are both umbrella terms that cover a wide range of talking therapies.
How many sessions will I need?
This depends on numerous factors, we can discuss your expectations, needs and what you hope to gain in the initial session(s) & throughout the process of therapy. Maybe you wish to attend shorter term counselling (for example 6 to 12 sessions) to explore and understand a specific area you are struggling with and potentially find some workable solutions going forth. On the other hand, perhaps you would benefit from longer term psychotherapy, exploring various challenges in depth to gain personal insights, understanding and resolutions in a supportive and safe environment. I initially recommend weekly sessions.
In-person sessions
I offer in-person sessions primarily from my comfortable home-based therapy room in Ossett/Horbury in the Wakefield area. I have a parking space for ease. If you will be using public transport it is on the 126 bus route, with the sheltered bus stop a five minute walk away (please bear in mind that I don’t have a waiting room for early arrival ahead of session time).
Remote sessions
I offer both in-person and remote counselling by Zoom or telephone. Both scenarios have their own benefits, as well as limitations. Remote working has several benefits and is convenient in terms of accessibility, ease, travel & time. It also has geographical advantages, allowing you to be in a different part of the country. However, it relies on a stable internet/Wi-Fi connection, and consideration needs to be given to whether you are in a private, confidential, & uninterrupted space. Zoom is very easy to navigate, and you don’t need to have the Zoom app. Ahead of our sessions I will send a Zoom link by email, which can be clicked for direct access to our secure meeting. If you haven’t used the Zoom platform before, I’m very happy to assist you with this on the telephone for the first time. I would recommend access by a laptop or a computer, however a tablet or smartphone would be possible too.
Do you offer concessions?
I reserve some discounted slots for individuals on a low income and also counselling students as their training requirement. I endeavour to enable private therapy more accessible to all.
Professional Body
I am a member of a professional body, the British Association of Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) and I adhere to their ethical framework for professional conduct.
Accessibility
I have a ground floor and step free therapy space for accessibility.