Question 1

What is psychotherapy, and how can it help me?

Accepted Answer

Psychotherapy — or just 'therapy' — is a collaborative process between you and a trained professional. It gives you a confidential, judgement-free space to explore your thoughts, feelings and experiences. Together, we look for patterns, understand what's driving them, and develop practical strategies for managing life's challenges.

Question 2

What are your qualifications and experience?

Accepted Answer

I hold a First Class Honours BSc in Psychology from the University of East London, a Diploma in CBT and Groupwork, and a Certificate in Counselling Skills from the Centre of Therapy & Counselling Studies. I also hold a COSRT Level 5 Certificate in Couple and Relationship Therapy from The Grove, an Advanced Certificate in Clinical Supervision from Counselling Tutor, a Certificate in Online and Telephone Counselling, and I am a Trauma-Informed Practitioner. Learn more about me here.(https://www.effectualtherapy.com/about)

Question 3

How long is each session, and how often are they scheduled?

Accepted Answer

Sessions are 50 minutes long and typically scheduled weekly. That said, everyone's needs are different — we'll find a rhythm that works for you.

Question 4

What is the difference between the therapeutic modalities you offer?

Accepted Answer

CBT, IFS and Attachment Theory are explained in detail here. (https://www.effectualtherapy.com/private-counselling)In short, I'll always use whichever approach — or combination of approaches — best fits your specific needs.

Question 5

How is confidentiality maintained?

Accepted Answer

Everything we discuss is confidential. All notes and online tools are stored securely in line with professional standards. If you ever have questions or concerns about your privacy, please raise them with me directly.

Question 6

What is the cost per session?

Accepted Answer

Self-funding clients:
 • Individuals: £75
 • Couples: £90
 • Supervision: £60
Health insurance clients: fees are subject to provider agreements and available on request. I am a recognised provider with Aviva, AXA Health, Bupa and WPA.

I offer a free 20-minute introductory call with no commitment.

Question 7

What should I expect in our first session?

Accepted Answer

We'll start by getting to know each other. I'll explain my approach and we'll talk through what's brought you to therapy, what you're hoping to achieve, and any questions you have. We'll also cover the practical details — confidentiality, the therapeutic contract, and how we'll work together. By the end, we'll have agreed next steps and a plan for moving forward.

Question 8

How do I know if therapy is working?

Accepted Answer

Progress in therapy isn't always linear, but you should notice gradual shifts — in how you feel, how you respond to situations, or how you relate to others. We'll set goals together at the start and check in on them regularly, so you always have a clear sense of where we're headed.

Question 9

How do online sessions work, and are they as effective as in-person sessions?

Accepted Answer

Online sessions take place via Zoom and work in the same way as in-person sessions. Research consistently shows that online therapy can be just as effective — and many people find it easier to open up from a familiar environment. The most important thing is that you can attend consistently, which is why I offer evenings and weekends too.

Question 10

What is your cancellation policy?

Accepted Answer

My cancellation policy is set out in the therapeutic contract I'll share with you before our first session. As a general rule, please give as much notice as possible if you need to cancel. Sessions cancelled with less than 48 hours' notice, or missed without notice, will be charged at the full rate.

Question 11

How do you handle emergencies or crises outside of session hours?

Accepted Answer

I don't offer crisis support or out-of-hours therapy. If you are in immediate danger, please call 999. For 24/7 emotional support, the Samaritans are available at any time on 116 123.(https://www.samaritans.org/how-we-can-help/contact-samaritan/)

Question 12

How long does therapy typically last?

Accepted Answer

It varies. Most people notice early shifts within the first few sessions. Meaningful change in the areas you came in for typically develops over 12–18 sessions. If you're working through longer-standing patterns or trauma, therapy may continue for longer — and that's completely normal. We'll discuss your goals at the start and review as we go. Get in touch (https://www.effectualtherapy.com/contact)if you'd like to talk it through first.

Question 13

What resources (books, apps, etc.) do you recommend for someone like me?

Accepted Answer

These are some that many clients have found helpful over the years:

Books
 • The Body Keeps the Score — Bessel van der Kolk
 • Feeling Good — David D. Burns
 • Attached — Amir Levine and Rachel Heller

Apps
 • Headspace — meditation and mindfulness
 • MoodNotes — mood tracking and emotional patterns
 • Calm — sleep and breathing exercises

Websites
 • PsychCentral — articles, quizzes and forums on mental health

If something else comes up that I think would help you, I'll mention it in our sessions.

Question 14

How do you stay updated in your field?

Accepted Answer

I engage in regular Continuing Professional Development (CPD), maintain my professional memberships, and keep up with current research and therapeutic practice.

Question 15

What are the potential risks of therapy?

Accepted Answer

Therapy is beneficial for most people, but it's worth knowing that the process can sometimes feel uncomfortable — particularly when exploring difficult experiences. Some relationships in your life may also shift as you develop healthier boundaries. If anything concerns you, please bring it to our sessions and we'll address it together.

Question 16

How can I provide feedback or express concerns about our sessions?

Accepted Answer

You're welcome to bring any feedback or concerns to me directly, either during a session or in writing. I'll always do my best to address them. If you feel unable to raise something with me directly, you can make a formal complaint to my professional body, BACP, here.(https://www.bacp.co.uk/about-therapy/get-help-with-counselling-concerns-service/)

Question 17

Where is your office?

Accepted Answer

My practice is based at The Life Academy Wellbeing Centre, 3B Greenhill Park, Edinburgh, EH10 4DW. Detailed directions are available here. (https://www.thelifeacademy.com/find-us)Paid on-street parking is available directly outside the building — if you need help with parking arrangements, just let me know in advance.

Not sure how to get started?

FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions