FAQs

Psychotherapy, often referred to as 'therapy', is a collaborative process between a client and a trained professional aimed at fostering understanding, healing, and personal growth. Imagine it as a safe space where you can share your thoughts, feelings, and experiences without judgment. Together, we work to uncover patterns, explore challenges, and develop effective strategies to manage life's ups and downs. The true magic of therapy lies in its adaptability. Whether you're navigating life transitions, coping with mental health challenges, or simply seeking a deeper understanding of yourself, therapy is tailored to meet your unique needs and goals. Here's how therapy can benefit you: Insight & Self-awareness: Dive deep into understanding your thoughts, behaviours, and emotions, paving the way for self-growth. Coping Mechanisms: Equip yourself with tools and strategies to manage stress, anxiety, or other challenges that come your way. Improved Relationships: Gain skills to communicate effectively, understand others, and foster healthy relationships. Healing: Begin the journey of healing from past traumas or unresolved issues. Empowerment: Rediscover your strengths and build confidence to navigate life's challenges. If you're curious, seeking change, or just need someone to talk to, therapy might be the compass you're looking for. Remember, reaching out is a sign of strength, and I'm here to support you every step of the way.

First and foremost, I'm deeply passionate about helping individuals like you navigate life's complexities and discover inner well-being. My commitment to this field is backed by a strong educational and experiential foundation: Education: I hold a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from the University of East London, where I was honoured with First Class Honours. In addition, I've furthered my studies with a Diploma in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy and Group Work, and a Certificate in Counselling Skills from the Centre of Therapy & Counselling Studies. Continuous Learning: The world of psychotherapy is ever evolving, and I'm dedicated to staying at its forefront. This means I actively participate in continual professional development, ensuring that I'm always equipped with the latest knowledge and techniques to serve you best. Practical Experience: Over the years, I've had the privilege of working with a diverse range of individuals, addressing various challenges. This hands-on experience has enriched my therapeutic approach, allowing me to tailor sessions uniquely to each client's needs. My journey in this field is driven by the transformations I witness in my clients' lives. I cherish the trust they place in me and am committed to offering the best possible support. If you have any more specific questions about my background or approach, please don't hesitate to ask. I'm an open book!

Every journey of transformation is unique, and our sessions are crafted to honour that. Typically, individual sessions last for 50 minutes, providing a dedicated space for you to express, reflect, and grow. For couples, while sessions are usually 60 minutes, the initial session is an extended 1.5 hours. This allows us an ample opportunity to delve deeper into understanding the dynamics of your relationship from the very start. To ensure consistent progress and support, it's common for us to meet weekly. However, understanding that everyone's needs and schedules vary, we can discuss and find a rhythm that feels right for you. Whether you're an individual seeking more frequent sessions during challenging times, a couple wanting to maintain momentum, or if you prefer spacing the sessions out, we'll collaboratively design a plan tailored to your journey. Remember, the goal is to ensure you feel supported and empowered every step of the way. If you have preferences or concerns about session timings, I'm here to listen and adapt.

Navigating the world of therapy can sometimes feel like deciphering a maze of jargon, but it's essential to understand that each therapeutic modality offers its own unique path to healing and growth. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): This is a solution-focused approach that helps you identify and challenge negative thought patterns, leading to positive behavioural changes. It's like having a toolbox of strategies to cope with life's challenges and elevate your day-to-day experiences. Gestalt Therapy: This modality emphasizes present moment awareness, helping you to recognize and understand unfinished business or unresolved emotions. It's akin to holding a mirror up to your emotions, allowing you to see, process, and move forward. Attachment Theory: This approach delves deep into the ways early relationships shape our current connections and behaviours. Imagine understanding the roots of a tree to nurture its growth; that's what Attachment Theory offers. Each modality has its strengths, and depending on your needs and goals, we may use one or integrate elements from several. The beauty of therapy is its adaptability—ensuring it resonates with your unique journey. If you ever have questions or curiosities about our approach, I'm here to guide and inform. Let's collaborate to find the best path for you.

Your trust and comfort are paramount to me. When you step into our therapeutic space, whether physically or virtually, you're entering a sanctuary of privacy and respect. Here's what you should know: Protected Conversations: Everything you share within our sessions remains between us, with very few exceptions required by law, such as imminent danger to yourself or others. I will always inform you about these exceptions at the outset. Secure Records: Any records or notes taken during our sessions are stored securely, following the highest professional and ethical standards. Only authorized individuals, under specific circumstances, have access. Digital Safeguarding: For online sessions, I use encrypted and secure platforms to ensure our conversations remain private. Your digital well-being is just as important as your emotional well-being. Open Dialogue: If you ever have concerns or questions about your privacy or the information you've shared, please bring them up. Our relationship thrives on open communication, and I'm here to address any of your worries. Your peace of mind is essential. When you're with me, you can confidently express yourself, knowing that your confidentiality is guarded with the utmost care.

Seeking support for your mental and emotional well-being is a valuable step towards a brighter, more fulfilling life. I'm committed to ensuring that the financial aspects of our work together are clear and straightforward. Initial Assessment: Our first session, which serves as an initial assessment, is priced at £40 (for all individual clients). This session allows me to understand your needs, set goals, and determine the best therapeutic approach for you. Subsequent Sessions: After the initial assessment, each session is priced at £60. This reflects the dedicated time, expertise, and personalized care you receive in each of our sessions. Couples Sessions: For couples seeking joint therapy, the first extended session is priced at £100, with each subsequent session being £70. These sessions offer a unique opportunity to explore and enhance the dynamics of your relationship. Students & Trainee Counsellors: Recognizing the importance of support for students and trainee counsellors, I offer a special concession rate: after the initial assessment, your sessions are £50 each. It's my way of ensuring that everyone has access to the guidance and support they deserve. Value in Every Session: It's essential to view these sessions as an investment in your growth, well-being, and future. The insights, tools, and strategies you gain can have a lasting positive impact on your life. Questions & Concerns: Should you have any questions about the fee structure or any other aspect of our work together, please don't hesitate to reach out. I'm here to ensure that every part of your therapeutic journey feels comfortable and supportive.

Stepping into a new therapeutic journey can be both exciting and a tad bit nerve-wracking. I'm here to make sure your first experience feels welcoming, safe, and constructive. Getting Acquainted: We'll start by getting to know each other. This is a time for you to share a bit about yourself and what brought you to therapy. Likewise, I'll introduce myself and explain a bit more about my approach. Understanding Your Needs: We'll explore your reasons for seeking therapy, any goals you might have, and the challenges you're currently facing. There's no pressure to share everything right away; this is a journey, and every step counts. Setting the Tone: This session is also about determining our therapeutic fit. It's vital for you to feel comfortable with me, and vice versa, to ensure we can work productively together. Confidentiality & Boundaries: We'll discuss confidentiality, the boundaries of our professional relationship, and any other administrative details that are crucial for our work together. Looking Forward: By the end of our session, we'll have a roadmap for our next steps. This might include setting future appointments, discussing potential therapeutic strategies, or any homework or reflections to consider. Your Comfort is Key: Remember, this is your space. Feel free to ask questions, express any concerns, or indicate if something doesn't feel quite right. I'm here to support, guide, and collaborate with you.

Recognizing the progress and efficacy of therapy can sometimes be subtle, and at other times, more evident. Here are some indicators to help you assess the journey: Increased Self-Awareness: One of the first signs is a heightened awareness of your thoughts, emotions, and behaviours. You might start recognizing patterns or triggers that previously went unnoticed. Improved Emotional Well-being: Over time, you might feel a reduction in the intensity and frequency of negative emotions, experiencing more calm, joy, or balance in your daily life. Skill Application: You'll find yourself using the tools and strategies discussed during our sessions in real-life situations, helping you manage challenges more effectively. Shift in Perspective: You might notice a change in how you perceive challenges, viewing them as opportunities for growth rather than insurmountable obstacles. Enhanced Relationships: Improved communication, understanding, and empathy in your interactions with others can be a sign of internal growth. Open Dialogue with Your Therapist: Regularly discussing your feelings about the therapy process with me can provide insights into your progress. I'm here to reflect on your journey with you and adjust our approach as needed. Remember, Progress is Personal: Everyone's therapeutic journey is unique. What feels like a breakthrough for one person might feel different for another. Celebrate small victories and be patient with yourself. Regular Reviews: It can be beneficial to periodically review your initial goals and see how they align with your current state. Adjustments can be made based on your evolving needs. Ultimately, therapy is a collaborative endeavour. Your feedback and feelings about the process are invaluable. If at any point you're unsure about your progress, please share your concerns. Together, we'll navigate the journey towards your well-being.

Online Sessions Explained: Online therapy, often referred to as teletherapy or e-therapy, utilizes video conferencing platforms to facilitate sessions. This means you can connect with me from the comfort and privacy of your own space, be it your home, office, or any location where you feel at ease. How it Works: Scheduling: Just like in-person therapy, we'll schedule appointments at mutually convenient times. Technical Setup: Prior to our first online session, I'll provide clear instructions on how to set up and access our virtual meeting room. All you'll need is a reliable internet connection and a device with a camera and microphone. Secure & Confidential: Ensuring your privacy is paramount. I use platforms that adhere to strict security standards, ensuring our conversations remain confidential. Session Experience: Once connected, our session will proceed much like an in-person meeting. We'll discuss your feelings, challenges, and goals, working collaboratively towards your well-being. Effectiveness of Online Sessions: Studies have shown that online therapy can be just as effective as face-to-face sessions for many individuals and concerns. Here are some benefits of online therapy: Flexibility & Accessibility: It's perfect for those with busy schedules, mobility challenges, or those living in areas with limited therapeutic resources. Comfort: Being in your own environment can sometimes make it easier to open up and discuss sensitive topics. Continuity: Even if you're traveling or unable to attend in person, therapy can continue without interruption. Which is Right for You? The best therapy format is the one that meets your needs and fits your lifestyle. Some clients prefer the traditional feel of in-person sessions, while others appreciate the convenience of online meetings. It's also perfectly okay to combine both methods based on your preference and circumstances. If you have any reservations or questions about online therapy, I encourage you to reach out. Let's find the best therapeutic approach tailored just for you.

I understand that life can be unpredictable, and plans might change. However, to ensure that I can provide consistent care to all my clients, I have the following cancellation policy in place: 48-Hour Notice: If you need to cancel or reschedule a session, please provide at least 48 hours' notice. This allows me to offer the time slot to another client who might be waiting. Charges for Short-Notice Cancellations & Missed Sessions: Sessions that are cancelled with less than 48 hours' notice, as well as missed sessions, will be charged the full fee. This policy is in place as a commitment to the therapeutic process and to respect the time set aside for our work together. I genuinely value our time and the journey we embark on together. If you foresee a scheduling conflict or have any concerns about upcoming sessions, please reach out as early as possible. I'm here to support you and will always do my best to accommodate your needs.

Your well-being is of utmost importance to me. While I am deeply committed to supporting you during our scheduled sessions, I do not offer crisis support outside of these hours. If you find yourself in an emergency or crisis situation, it's crucial to get immediate assistance: Immediate Danger: If you or someone else is in immediate danger, please call emergency services or go to your nearest emergency department. Crisis Support with Samaritans: Samaritans offer a safe space to talk, anytime you need. They are available 24/7 to provide confidential support. You can reach out to them by calling 116 123 or visiting their website for more contact options. Additionally, always consider sharing your feelings or concerns with a trusted person in your life, whether it's a friend, family member, or another professional. Your safety and well-being are paramount, and there are resources available to help you during challenging moments.

The journey of therapy is unique for everyone, much like our own individual life paths. Here's what you might expect: Initial Progress: Many clients start to feel a sense of relief and understanding within just a few sessions. Even small insights or shifts in perspective can begin making a difference early on. Short-Term Therapy: Some people come with specific challenges they wish to address, and they might find that 12-18 sessions are enough to make the desired changes. Long-Term Therapy: Other individuals, particularly those grappling with deep-seated patterns, trauma, or multiple challenges, benefit from a longer therapeutic journey that could span several months or even years. Review & Collaboration: We will regularly review our work together and discuss your feelings about progress. This ensures that therapy remains aligned with your goals and needs. The most important thing to remember is that therapy's pace is dictated by you. My commitment is to support, guide, and walk beside you for as long as you find our sessions beneficial and meaningful.

Your journey of self-discovery and healing is deeply personal, and the resources that resonate with you will be unique to your experience. However, over the years, many clients have found the following resources helpful: Books: "The Body Keeps the Score" by Bessel van der Kolk: A transformative look at how trauma impacts the body and mind. "Feeling Good" by David D. Burns: A staple for understanding cognitive distortions and tools to combat them. "Attached" by Amir Levine and Rachel Heller: An insightful dive into attachment styles in relationships. Apps: Headspace: An excellent starting point for meditation and mindfulness. MoodNotes: A journaling app to track moods and understand emotional patterns. Calm: Offers guided meditations, sleep stories, and breathing exercises to help reduce anxiety and improve sleep. Websites: PsychCentral: A comprehensive site filled with articles, quizzes, and forums on a wide range of mental health topics. Lastly, during our sessions, I will often provide tailored recommendations based on our conversations and your unique needs. Always remember, while resources can be incredibly valuable, they are most effective when used in tandem with our therapeutic work together.

Staying current in the ever-evolving field of psychotherapy is essential to offering the best support to my clients. Here's how I ensure I remain at the forefront of therapeutic techniques and research: Continuing Professional Development (CPD): I regularly attend workshops, seminars, and conferences to deepen my understanding of emerging therapeutic approaches and to hone my skills further. Peer Review and Supervision: Engaging in regular clinical supervision and peer discussions ensures I receive constructive feedback, remain self-aware, and address any potential blind spots in my practice. Research and Journals: I subscribe to several professional journals and publications, ensuring I'm informed about the latest research findings and evidence-based practices in psychotherapy. Professional Networks: Being an active member of several psychotherapeutic organizations and associations allows me to collaborate with peers, share insights, and learn from the diverse experiences of fellow practitioners. Training Courses: I seek out and enrol in advanced training courses to expand my therapeutic toolkit and stay abreast of innovations in the field. Client Feedback: I value the insights and feedback from my clients. Their experiences and perspectives often guide my learning focus and help ensure my approach remains effective and resonant. Staying updated isn't just a professional obligation—it's a passion. I am committed to ongoing learning to ensure I can provide the highest level of care and support for every individual I work with.

Engaging in therapy can be a profound journey of self-discovery and growth. However, as with any deep introspective process, there can be challenges along the way: Emotional Discomfort: Discussing past traumas, unresolved conflicts, or current challenges can evoke strong emotions. This is a natural part of the therapeutic process, as confronting and processing these feelings can lead to healing. Temporary Increase in Distress: Sometimes, before things get better, they might feel more intense. This can be a sign that you're making progress, as it often means you're facing issues that have been buried or avoided. Changes in Relationships: As you grow and change, your relationships might shift. Some relationships might strengthen, while others could become strained as you set new boundaries or gain new insights. Potential for Unresolved Issues: Not every issue will be resolved in therapy. Some challenges might take longer to work through, and others might be ongoing. Realization of Need for Intensive Treatment: In some cases, therapy might lead to the realization that more intensive or specialized care is needed. It's important to note that while these risks exist, therapy also offers immense potential benefits, such as improved well-being, better coping skills, clarity on life's purpose, and enriched relationships. My role is to provide a safe, supportive environment to navigate these challenges and to ensure you feel informed, empowered, and supported every step of the way. If you ever have concerns about your experience in therapy, I encourage open dialogue so we can address them together.

Your feedback is instrumental to our therapeutic process, and I am committed to creating an environment where you feel comfortable expressing any thoughts or concerns. Here's how you can approach providing feedback or voicing concerns: Direct Dialogue: At any point during our journey, whether at the beginning, middle, or end of a session, please feel free to bring up any feedback or concerns you might have. This can relate to our interactions, techniques used, or any other aspect of our sessions. Written Feedback: If you find it easier to articulate your thoughts in writing, you can jot them down and either hand them to me during our session or send them to me in advance. Formal Complaints: If you're ever unhappy with the service you receive, it's crucial that you let me know. I deeply value our therapeutic relationship and want to ensure that any concerns are addressed promptly. However, if you feel unable to discuss your concerns directly with me or believe they are not adequately resolved, you have the right to make a formal complaint to my governing professional body, COSCA. Detailed information about the COSCA complaints procedure can be accessed here. Open communication ensures that our sessions are as effective and beneficial as possible. I am here to support and assist you, and I truly appreciate your active involvement in our shared therapeutic journey.

My practice is based at The Life Academy Wellbeing Centre, 3B Greenhill Park, Edinburgh, EH10 4DW. You can find detailed instructions on how to find the office here. If you need parking, please let me know in advance. In any case, paid on-street parking is available directly outside the building.